About Us

Founded a century ago by Dr Lorna Hodgkinson – A Woman Ahead of her Time, Unisson Disability began as a pioneering institution dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities. Today, we proudly support individuals across Northern and Western Sydney, the Central Coast, and the Hunter regions of NSW, adapting to modern needs while maintaining our foundational commitment to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Our comprehensive service offerings range from uniquely co-designed social programs focused on adventure, lifestyle, culture, and wellness, to our quality supported employment opportunities through Pack Works and Ground Works. These programs allow our clients to engage in meaningful indoor and outdoor work experiences, fostering skill development in nurturing environments.

At Unisson, we are more than a service provider; we are a community deeply invested in the power of human connections. Our approach is rooted in understanding each person’s unique story, finding common ground, and creating meaningful interactions. We emphasise saying ‘yes’ to possibilities, being authentic, and making every connection memorable.

As we look forward to the future, we are excited about continuing to evolve and adapt, ensuring that our services not only meet but exceed the needs of the people we support.

Our vision is a world where every person is welcomed. Every person is celebrated for their unique contributions, and embraced for who they are. In the disability sector, this vision is not just aspirational but fundamental. By fostering inclusivity and creating environments where everyone feels valued, we empower individuals with disabilities to thrive and participate fully in society. This approach drives our work, guiding us to build supportive communities, develop tailored services, and advocate for policies that reflect our commitment.

💜 Generosity: We give our hearts and minds in an effort to understand others.

🧡 Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and seek to ensure everyone is valued and respected.

💛 Courage: We are brave in our intent to be authentic and advocate for what is right.

💜 Creativity: We work together to find the yes and encourage new ways of doing and thinking.

We believe in a more inclusive world for people with disabilities and work daily to make this vision a reality.

Our History

Our Founder

Our story began in 1924 when Dr Lorna Hodgkinson, a remarkable Australian of great dedication and vision, established the Sunshine Institute. Lorna was the first woman to receive a Doctorate at the prestigious Harvard University, USA. As a teacher herself, Lorna was passionate in her belief that people with an intellectual disability should be supported to lead meaningful lives.

To find out more about our incredible journey, click on the decades in the timeline below.

Timeline of Events

1920s

In 1924, Lorna Hodgkinson founded the Sunshine Institute at Gore Hill on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, marking a revolutionary step in support for people with intellectual disabilities. Lorna, the first woman to earn a doctorate from Harvard University, was driven by her conviction that individuals with intellectual disabilities deserved education and meaningful lives rather than confinement in mental institutions. This belief challenged both governmental policies and societal norms at the time. She began with a leased house, which she later purchased, opening it as a residential school for six children. This initiative laid the groundwork for what would become Unisson Disability.

1950s

By the time of Lorna Hodgkinson’s passing in 1951, the Sunshine Institute had grown to support over 60 students at Gore Hill. Many of the initial children remained with the organisation into their adulthood, shifting the demographic to predominantly support adults with disabilities. Before her death, Lorna transformed the institute into a non-profit, governed by a board of trustees, bequeathing most of her estate to it. The institute was then renamed the Lorna Hodgkinson Sunshine Home. Throughout the years, the organisation expanded while steadfastly adhering to Lorna’s foundational principle of individualised support and care.

1990s

In the late 1970s, the Sunshine Institute began transitioning away from institutional living, marking the start of significant changes in disability support. Over the next two decades, the organisation acquired several units and homes, facilitating the move of many individuals into group living environments. A pivotal moment occurred in 1980 when students from the Sunshine Institute performed at the Sydney Opera House, an event documented in the film "Stepping Out." This performance not only highlighted their capabilities but also underscored the evolving perceptions and treatments of disability during this era.

2000s

In the early 2000s, the sale of the Gore Hill site funded Sunshine's expansion into community-based living, extending services across Sydney and into the Central Coast and Hunter region. By 2014, the organisation celebrated its 90th anniversary.

In 2017, to reflect its evolved identity and approach, Sunshine re-branded to Unisson Disability. The new name, selected to foster a deeper connection with the communities and individuals we support, marks a fresh chapter aimed at enhancing engagement and understanding. While the name changed, our core values and commitment to empowering people with disabilities remain steadfast, underscoring our leadership in the sector.

Our People

At Unisson Disability, our Executive and Senior Leaders are the driving force behind our strategic vision, leading with passion and expertise. They inspire and guide our teams, turning bold ideas into reality and creating opportunities for everyone we support to live their best lives. Their dedication and collaborative spirit are central to our success.

Backing them is our vibrant Board, a group of visionary individuals united by their commitment to making a difference. Each Board member brings a wealth of skills and experience, all focused on enhancing Unisson Disability’s impact as a leading provider of exceptional disability services. Together, they are committed to building meaningful connections with those we support and their families, setting us apart in our field. Our success is a collective achievement, driven by the shared enthusiasm and dedication of our leaders and Board members.