About us

Empowering Lives with Compassionate, Personalised Support

Supporting Your Way of Life was founded on the belief that every person, regardless of their abilities or challenges, deserves a life full of choice, independence, and opportunity. With decades of personal and professional experience in disability support, we are dedicated to providing services that empower individuals and strengthen communities. We’re here to help you live the life you want—one step at a time, with a team that truly cares.

Our Mission

To enhance the lives of people with disabilities by encouraging choice, providing opportunities, and helping individuals develop the skills they need to live their best life.

Our Vision

We envision a future where every individual has the support they need to live confidently and independently, fully integrated within their community. Our goal is to expand our reach, build stronger networks, and become a leading voice in compassionate, inclusive care.

Our Story

Our journey began with our founder, Melissa Tanner, who has over 20 years of lived and professional experience in the disability sector. Inspired by her own family’s challenges and experiences, Melissa created Supporting Your Way of Life to address the gaps she saw in the industry—particularly the need for compassionate, hands-on support for individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges. Since then, we’ve grown into a trusted provider, serving clients across multiple regions with a focus on personalised, holistic care.

MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO

Melissa Tanner

Compassionate Leader, Advocate, and Visionary

With over 20 years of experience in the disability sector, Melissa Tanner founded Supporting Your Way of Life with a deep commitment to creating an inclusive and empowering support network for individuals with disabilities. Her journey began with supporting her own family members, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges that many individuals face. This experience inspired her to establish a service that goes beyond standard care to provide truly personalised, compassionate support.

Melissa’s background as a disability support worker, support coordinator, and advocate has equipped her to lead a team that understands and respects the unique needs of every client. Her mission is simple: to help each individual build independence, gain confidence, and live a fulfilling life.

Why Melissa Started SYWOL

To bridge gaps in disability and mental health support systems

To build a safe space where everyone feels valued and empowered

To help individuals thrive with confidence, independence, and joy

“Every person deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling, independent life. At Supporting Your Way of Life, we’re here to make that possible with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to helping each individual reach their full potential.”

What Guides us on Everything We Do

Our Values

Inclusivity

We believe in creating an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of ability, is valued, respected, and provided with equal opportunities. Our approach ensures that all voices are heard, and everyone receives the support they need to fully participate in life and community.

Empowerment

We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by fostering independence, providing choice, and supporting personal growth. Our services are designed to enable clients to lead lives defined by their own goals and aspirations, giving them the confidence and tools they need to thrive.

Collaboration

We recognise that success is built through collaboration—both within our team and in partnership with our clients, their families, and the community. By working together, we create inclusive, supportive environments that strengthen the well-being of individuals and promote shared success in reaching personal goals.

Integrity

Integrity guides every aspect of our work. We believe in acting with transparency, honesty, and accountability in all our interactions. By staying true to our ethical principles, we build a foundation of trust with our clients, staff, and community partners, ensuring that every decision we make is in the best interest of those we serve.