OUR STORY

Why River was created.

In 2022, Damian was working as a National Manager for an Australian foster care and child protection organisation. His role took him across the country each week, visiting communities like Broken Hill, the Pilbara, the Kimberleys, and the Northern Territory. Flying over the stunning red earth of Australia on tiny planes, he witnessed firsthand the incredible work his teams were doing to support over 300 children and families.

But with each journey, Damian kept hearing the same concerns. Families, individuals, and communities spoke about the significant financial, geographical, and biopsychosocial challenges they faced in accessing essential support. Time and again, he saw the gaps in support services, particularly in remote and rural communities.

On one flight back from Broken Hill, gazing down at the snakelike tracks of ancient riverbeds stretching across the desert, Damian’s mind began to wander. He has never been one to dwell on problems — his focus has always been on finding solutions. That’s when the idea for River began to take shape.

River was born from a vision to break down all barriers and boundaries preventing people from accessing high-quality, life-changing support. Its mission is to provide accessible services across Australia in allied health, disability/NDIS, health, homelessness, child protection, and out-of-home care. River exists to walk alongside individuals, families, and communities, helping them achieve their goals and improve their lives.