Innovative Australian Care (IAC) believes that no individual is beyond help, no matter how complex the challenges. Thomas’ journey stands as a powerful testament to that belief, showing what’s possible when the right support, innovation, and compassion come together.
Meet Thomas
Thomas, a man living with Autism Level 3 and Epilepsy, faced overwhelming obstacles. His daily life was marked by physical aggression, self-harm, and property damage so extreme that multiple service providers exited his case. With five restrictive practices in place, frequent hospital admissions, and obesity-related health issues, many saw his situation as hopeless.
But at IAC, we don’t walk away, we walk beside.
How IAC Turned Crisis Into Progress
Rather than giving up, IAC implemented its pioneering Lean Six Sigma care model, led by Dr Ahmad Al-Najjar. As the first disability support provider in Australia to use this continuous improvement framework in complex care, we took a data-driven, human-focused approach to rewrite Thomas’ future.
Close Observation & Accurate Feedback
Through intensive monitoring and real-time data analysis, we tailored Thomas’ support plan to meet his evolving needs, quickly and precisely.
Collaborative Specialist Support
A dedicated multidisciplinary team worked with neurologists, psychologists, behavioural therapists, allied health professionals, and Positive Behaviour Practitioners to design an integrated, responsive care model.
Structured Behaviour Support Plan
With positive behaviour strategies and trauma-informed care, we safely reduced the use of restrictive practices while managing complex behaviours.
Comprehensive SIL Support
Thomas received 24/7, 2:1 support in a highly structured SDA home, including therapeutic care, crisis intervention, and staff specially trained in complex behaviour management.
Crisis Response & De-escalation
All staff were trained in therapeutic engagement and advanced de-escalation techniques, significantly reducing emergency episodes and increasing safety for all.
Data-Driven Monitoring
We tracked everything, seizures, incidents, restrictive practices, weight, and mood, allowing us to make quick, meaningful adjustments to his support.
Specialised Nutrition & Exercise Plan
With guidance from allied health professionals, Thomas followed a structured plan to support weight loss, improve mobility, and enhance emotional regulation.
The Results: A Life Reclaimed in Just 15 Months
In just over a year, Thomas experienced a dramatic transformation:
- Seizures reduced from 10/month to just 3/month
- Behavioural incidents dropped from 15/month to 4/month
- Two restrictive practices safely removed
- Substantial weight loss and improved physical health
- Fewer hospital admissions and crisis interventions
- NDIS goals achieved, including community participation
- Stability and trust within a calm, structured home with consistent staff
From “Too Complex” to Capable and Thriving
Thomas’ story proves that with innovation, persistence, and belief in a person’s potential, transformation is not only possible, it’s inevitable. Today, he lives in a stable, respectful environment that nurtures his growth, builds his confidence, and helps him take steady steps toward independence.
IAC don’t shy away from complexity, we lean in and deliver results.
Do you support someone with complex needs? We’re here to help. Let’s turn the impossible into progress, together.
