About Us

Overview of our services

Disability Consulting Support provides comprehensive and personalised disability services tailored to meet the unique needs of our participants. From core supports and supported independent living options to specialised disability accommodation, day programs, and support coordination, we offer a broad spectrum of services designed to enhance independence and quality of life. Our team also delivers NDIS gardening and lawn maintenance services, ensuring participants’ homes and environments are well-maintained and welcoming. With a commitment to participant-centred care, we empower individuals to achieve their goals and engage actively within their communities.

Locations we serve

We proudly serve participants across Tamworth and the North West NSW region, with a focus on delivering quality, localised support. Our services are strategically positioned in central suburban areas, providing easy access to amenities, public transport, and community resources. Whether you’re in Tamworth or its surrounding areas, our knowledgeable and caring team is ready to assist, ensuring that support is always within reach.

Mission & vision

Together we will make it happen for you
We act in the best interests of our participants in helping them work towards and achieve their goals. Our personalised approach is what sets us apart from other disability services providers. Offering Independent advice and support gives our participants choice of the services they receive and how they receive them.

Our Values

Determined

We make it happen

Reliable

We are dependable, consistently delivering on our promises

Empathetic

We listen to understand

Inclusive

We embrace diversity, ensuring everyone feels valued

Care

We prioritise the well-being of our community and clients

Flexible

We seek to find way that work, despite the barriers

Non-Judgemental

We seek to understand, not judge

Meet The Team

Chris Buckman

Director & Founder
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Josh Brinkman

General Manager
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Kaylene Neilson

SIL & Accommodation Manager
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Sarah Hitchcock

Rostering & Quality Compliance Manager
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Emily Wilkin

Coordinator of Supports
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Penny Everett

Reception & Administration Assistant
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Contact Us
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Chris Buckman

Director & Founder

Chris grew up with Cerebral Palsy in the small town of Tenterfield, after completing high school he worked in a variety of jobs before commencing work in Disability Employment Services in 1996. This was the commencement of more 25 years in the disability sector.

Chris is a passionate advocate for people with disability and has worked within the current NDIS Framework since its trial days, Disability Consulting Support was established in 2016 initially as a consulting support service for families and service providers to help navigate the NDIS system.

The business has continued to evolve from its small base of just 3 families to one that today supports more that 60 participants across the full range of NDIS supports.

DCS is proud to continue to provide employment opportunities to people with Disability both within the carer and administration side of our business while also building a Garden Mowing and Maintenance Team that works with in the business and for external contractors.

Josh Brinkman

General Manager

DCS Welcomes Josh Brinkman as our newly appointed General Manager.

Josh, a very positive and driven individual & qualified Chef of 20 years, joins DCS as he embarks on his career change into the Disability Sector.
DCS is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Josh who is a seasoned professional, has extensive experience in Management, Team Leadership & Staff Mentoring.

In late 2024, Josh Organised & ran a very successful fundraiser for Shake it up Australia Foundation with his team. On reflection of this time Josh was able to acknowledge he possesses significant skills learned in the hospitality Industry. Josh knew he was ready for a change. He is passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves, about learning and encouraging others to employ their skills for the task.

In his down time, Josh still retains his love of cooking & enjoys passing on this skill to his children, enjoying family time, BBQ’s and their veggie garden.

Kaylene Neilson

SIL & Accommodation Manager

At 21, I fell into the disability sector in New Zealand, known as the “Land of the Long White Cloud.” Starting out in group homes, I quickly encountered various levels of support needs and faced a few sink-or-swim moments that tested my resilience and adaptability.

Over the past 24 years, I’ve grown from those early experiences into a supervisory and managerial role, where I’ve spent the last 15 years leading teams and making a significant impact in the field. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have exceptional mentors who have guided me in creating supportive and effective approaches for the individuals we serve. Celebrating small victories and working with a dedicated team have been central to my journey, making the challenges both rewarding and deeply fulfilling.

Sarah Hitchcock

Rostering & Quality Compliance Manager

Sarah has dedicated her life to healthcare, driven by a profound commitment to improving the lives of others. With over 20 years of experience as both a paramedic and a registered nurse, Sarah’s career is a testament to her unwavering passion for the medical field. Her journey began with a deep-seated desire to make a tangible difference, which led her to work tirelessly on the front lines of patient care.

For the past eight years, Sarah has channeled her extensive knowledge and experience into quality and compliance roles within the healthcare sector. Her focus has been on ensuring safe practices and high standards in the disability sector, where she has become a cornerstone in advocating for the needs of underprivileged communities. Her dedication to these communities is driven by a belief that every individual deserves the highest level of care and respect.

Sarah’s career is marked by a blend of hands-on clinical experience and a strategic approach to healthcare quality. She is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments to promote safe and effective healthcare practices. Her work not only ensures compliance but also fosters an environment where patients receive the best possible care.

Outside of her professional life, Sarah remains deeply committed to her values of compassion and equity. Her contributions to healthcare extend beyond her daily responsibilities, reflecting her genuine passion for uplifting those who are often overlooked.

Through her career and personal ethos, Sarah exemplifies the spirit of service and dedication that is essential in the healthcare field. Her journey is one of continuous learning and advocacy, driven by a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Emily Wilkin

Coordinator of Supports

Emily has worked in the disability sector for over 10 years. Emily started as a Support Worker and has now moved to the role of Co-ordinator of Supports helping clients source supports to achieve their goals.

Emily feels that people in the disabled community deserve a voice and sometimes its not heard so we have to be that voice. After many years as a Support Worker, Emily felt she could be more of an advocate in the Support Co-ordinator role.

Outside of work Emily enjoys time with her family, participating in harness racing and socialising.

Penny Everett

Reception & Administration Assistant

Penny joined our DCS Administration/Reception team in July 2024. Although new to the Disability Industry she has over 15 years’ experience in an administration/ reception role within Hospitality and Real Estate. Excellent Customer Service, Clear Communication, Fairness, Consistency and Equality for All are principles Penny brings to Our Team. Life work balance is important to Penny, outside of our busy office time off is spent soaking up family, gardening and caravaning adventures.

Nicole Reidsmith

Day Program Supervisor

Nicole has been with Disability Consulting Support for four years, including 2.5 years as a support worker and 1.5 years as the Day Programs Supervisor. With experience and skills developed across a variety of industries, including 10 years in early childhood education and 10 years in managerial roles, she developed a passion for supporting children and people with disabilities. Nicole is a dedicated, energetic role model who empowers her team and program participants.

Nicole actively fosters community inclusion and has helped DCS host major events, including a disco & games night and an all-abilities athletics carnival. Her efforts in organizing DCS-exclusive events have strengthened the organisation’s community presence, demonstrating her commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities.

Ben McLeod

Maintenance Team Supervisor

Ben joined Disability Consulting Support (DCS) as a Support Worker in 2021, bringing with him a strong background in customer service through his experience as a successful small business owner. Driven by a passion for helping others and seeking a meaningful lifestyle change, Ben transitioned into the disability sector; where he has flourished.

His dedication and leadership have seen him grow within the organisation, and he now holds the role of Maintenance Team Supervisor. In this position, Ben works closely with employees in our work crew, supporting individuals with diverse needs and capabilities.

Outside of work, Ben is an avid traveller who enjoys exploring new parts of the world. He also has a strong passion for music, which adds to his vibrant and well-rounded personality.

Bek Thompson

Specialised Coordinator of Supports

Bek’s career in the disability services sector is not only extensive but also deeply enriched by her diverse experiences, training, and passion for supporting individuals and families. From the outset, Bek balanced her professional journey with academic achievement, completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science and a Certificate IV in Disability while working with Samaritans and Allambie Youth Services in Newcastle. Her roles in accommodation and life skills settings laid a strong foundation for her ongoing development in the sector.

Bek’s career trajectory reflects her increasing leadership and expertise, transitioning from Senior Support Worker to Team Leader Coordinator of Supports at Northcott Disability Services. Her leadership extended to managing teams across the New England and Mid North Coast, where she served as a Team Leader and a Key Worker in Northcott’s Transdisciplinary Team prior to the implementation of the NDIS.

Before settling back in her hometown of Tamworth, Bek lived in Margaret River, WA, where she expanded her skill set by working for Life Without Barriers and managing responsibilities such as being an Independent Worker and a Night Manager at a local backpackers’ hostel. Her love of travel also took her to Nagasaki, Japan, where she spent a year teaching conversational English—an experience that likely broadened her cultural perspective and strengthened her communication skills.

In addition to her hands-on work, Bek has gained further expertise through specialized training in Positive Behaviour Support, Applied Behaviour Analysis, and Person-Centered Support. She is also experienced in leading and facilitating support groups for siblings, parents, and families, as well as organizing camps and holidays designed to connect families navigating similar challenges related to a family member with a disability.

Bek’s approach is deeply person-centered. She is passionate about walking alongside individuals and their families, ensuring they access the formal and informal supports necessary to live the lives they choose. With strong connections to a broad network of stakeholders throughout New South Wales, particularly in the New England region, Bek is well-positioned to help individuals link with the right services and support, contributing to their sense of value within the community. Her holistic view of support emphasizes both personal goals and community inclusion.

Kathryn Cramer

Quality Assurance Supervisor

Kathryn has prior experience in both the banking and vocational training sectors. Both of these are highly regulated industries similar to the disability sector. Kathryn is working as the Quality Assurance Supervisor role which is a compliance based position. Kathryn likes the T’s to be crossed and the I’s dotted. In many jobs she has held she has developed systems and processes to make work run more smoothly.

Kathryn has friends with disabilities of varying kinds and has Multiple Sclerosis herself. She understands the challenges of living with a “hidden disability” and has developed a strong understanding of the many different barriers people with a disability have to overcome. Kathryn often feels her greatest accomplishment is being able to live life successfully within the limitations her disability can impose.

Kathryn works in disability to make a difference. Her experiences have given her strong advocacy skills and a passion for people living their best life. Kathryn enjoys working for an organisation with a good record of meeting the needs of each client with their own individual goals and interests. Assisting with the organisation’s compliance, including training people in key compliance areas, gives Kathryn confidence that client’s needs are being consistently met. Training is her favourite part of the job.

When not at work Kathryn enjoys creating order from chaos, doing jigsaw puzzles, Lego models and diamond dot pictures. She loves to escape into a good book or movie and is a movie trivia buff. Kathryn enjoys good food and road trips. She loves spending time with her family, both in Tamworth and across the country.

Vanessa Carey

System Administration Manager

With 6 years of experience in the Disability sector and over 20 years of life experience with Acquired Brain Injury and Amputation, Vanessa brings a unique blend of technical skills and personal resilience to the table. Starting out as a Disability Support Worker while studying for a Diploma in Community Services, she moved up to the position of Senior Support Worker and then Accommodation Manager before landing in her current role. Along the way, Vanessa has developed a firm but fair approach to leadership, always striving to make sure things run smoothly and everyone feels supported.

I started by directly supporting individuals with disabilities while working on my Diploma in Community Services. I then led a team of support workers, focusing on improving services and outcomes. Managed services for clients, balancing day-to-day operations while enhancing their quality of life.

I believe in being firm but fair. It’s important to me that my team feels respected and supported while we work together to keep everything running smoothly. I’m also committed to making sure our workplace is inclusive, particularly for people with disabilities. I’m also passionate about advocating for people with disabilities and helping them live their best lives.

When I’m not managing systems, you can find me reading, camping, crocheting, sewing, or enjoying trivia nights with my coworkers.

Kandice Croser

Operations Manager

Kandice has dedicated the last five years to the disability industry, beginning her journey as a receptionist and advancing to her current role as Operations Manager of Disability Consulting Support. In this role, she oversees day-to-day operations, streamlines processes, and ensures that the team delivers high-quality support services. With a Bachelor of Business and a Certificate IV in Disability, she combines her educational background with practical experience to drive success within her organisation.

Kandice has cultivated a strong interest in small business dynamics, relishing the opportunity to support her team through rapid growth and celebrate their outstanding achievements. As a young female leader in a trusted position, she emphasises the importance of teamwork, believing that her success is intrinsically linked to the connections and influence she fosters within her team.

Kandice has personal lived experience, with her two nephews who have disabilities, which enriches her understanding and compassion for the community she serves. She actively engages with individuals with disabilities and their families through local support groups and volunteering, demonstrating her passion for making a meaningful impact.

Outside of her professional life, Kandice has a passion for fun and enjoys attending local events. She’s never shy when it comes to grabbing the microphone is always eager to explore Australia’s hidden gems. Kandice is grateful for the experiences that have shaped her journey and looks forward to the ongoing development of her professional and personal connections.

Barry Murphy

Projects & Accounts Manager

Barry’s initial work experience revolved around accounting. (He is a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants). He was an internal auditor for several years for one of NSW’s largest organisations. An opportunity to run his own business brought him to Tamworth and his franchise business became one of the largest of its type in the Northwest of New South Wales. Following Other successful business ventures, Barry became the Chief Executive Officer, initially of The Challenge Foundation and later Challenge Community Services.

Challenge was initially a Tamworth-based organisation with 60 staff and a turnover of $700,000 per annum. Over the next 28 years, Challenge grew to become one of the largest country-based disability and children services in NSW, even extending its services to Southern Queensland. At the time of his retirement, Challenge had grown to a turnover of $100 million per year and a staff of 1000, Providing a range of services to people with disabilities and young people in foster care. During this time, Barry established himself in Tamworth in several community groups, including Apex (Where he became a life member) and Rotary, (In which he still serves today). Barry also had a stint in the last Tamworth City Council and served four years as the Deputy Mayor.

Following his retirement, Barry found he missed working in the disability industry. He was excited when Chris Buckman approached him with an offer of employment. His current role at DCS Is the Accountant, IR advisor, and Special projects as well as being a member of the current management team. Although DCS is a “for profit” business, Barry believes that the focus of the business has always been quality service provision to their clients and a commitment to happy and well-trained staff. For these reasons, he remains passionate about his commitment to the organisation. Assistant.