Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Who AAC Supports

AAC can assist adults living with:

Stroke or brain injury (aphasia, dysarthria)

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) or Parkinson’s

Autism or intellectual disability

Temporary voice loss after surgery or illness

AAC can reduce frustration, restore independence, and enhance connection with others. Early assessment often leads to better long-term outcomes.

Comprehensive AAC Assessments

• Evaluate communication strengths and challenges
• Match low- or high-tech tools to goals and abilities

Low-Tech Solutions

• Communication books, picture boards, or gesture systems
• Quick to implement and ideal for use at home or in the community

High-Tech Devices and Apps

• Speech-generating devices, tablets, and mobile apps
• Customisable vocabulary, voices, and access options (e.g. eye-gaze or switch)
• Voice banking

Training and Integration

• Hands-on coaching for users, families, and carers
• Combine AAC with natural speech using neuroaffirming approaches

Education and Ongoing Support

• Practical guides, telehealth sessions, and vocabulary updates
• Focused on NDIS goals for independence, participation and social connection

All services follow Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) best-practice standards to ensure ethical and effective outcomes.

Who We Work With

We support:

Neurodiverse adults seeking affirming communication methods

Aged care residents or those with dementia

Carers, families, and support coordinators needing AAC training and guidance

Families often share how AAC has rebuilt social connection and reduced feelings of isolation.

Experience

Founded by Catherine Coate and Amanda Pierce, both senior clinicians with decades of adult speech pathology experience.

Warm and Empathetic Care

We make AAC personal, practical, and empowering.

Trusted Local Partnerships

Working with GPs, neurologists, NDIS teams, and allied health providers across the South West.

Accessible Services

Clinics in Bunbury and Busselton, plus telehealth and regional visits.

Part of Bridging the Gap (BTG)

Delivering integrated, community-focused care under NDIS Practice Standards.

Funding and Referrals

AAC support can be accessed through:

NDIS plans (Capacity Building or Assistive Technology)

Medicare CDM or DVA programs

NDIS Support Coordinators in Bunbury can refer directly for AAC assessments—we guide you through the entire process.