From humble beginnings in 1962 to a thriving social enterprise today, Fairhaven has always been about creating opportunities for people with disability to live, work and belong.
Fairhaven began in 1962 as a small school founded by Central Coast families who wanted better opportunities for their children with intellectual disability. At a time when mainstream education was not accessible, these families came together with a shared goal—to create a place where their children could learn, grow and be supported.
Over the years, Fairhaven has evolved well beyond its origins as a school.
Today, we are a not-for-profit social enterprise supporting people living with disability across the Central Coast to live the life they choose.
While education was our starting point, our focus has grown to include community participation, social skill development, employment pathways, accommodation and Home & Living supports.
A key part of this growth is Fairhaven CoPack, our Australian Disability Enterprise based in Tuggerah. Employing more than 100 people with disability, CoPack provides meaningful, paid employment while delivering high-quality commercial services to businesses.
We also offer supported independent living and specialist disability accomodation homes in Kincumber and Booker Bay, providing safe, welcoming environments that promote independence, choice and control. In Ettalong, our accessible holiday accommodation offers a place for people with disability, their families and older Australians to relax and enjoy time by the coast.
For young people leaving school, our Choose Your Pathway School Leaver Employment Support (SLES) programs provide practical skills and real-world experience, helping them transition confidently into employment – whether in mainstream or supported employment.
While much has changed since 1962, our purpose remains the same – to create opportunities. With the ongoing support of our volunteers, donors and community, we continue to empower people to build independence, find meaningful work and stay connected.
If you’d like to learn more about our services, explore opportunities, or get involved, we’d love to hear from you.
Call our team on (02) 4349 5500 or fill in our contact us form.
Fairhaven’s story began in 1962 with the vision of local families who recognised the need for support for children living with disabilities.
Transitioned to a government-subsidised Activity Therapy Centre, allowing expansion into employment programs while education was handled by the NSW Department.
Became Challenge Foundation NSW and established Challenge Electronics at Woy Woy, creating new employment opportunities.
Established Pacific CoPack, Point Clare Op Shop, and Focus Oze Learning (winning a National Innovation Award).
The Fairhaven School officially opened at Point Clare, marking a significant milestone with strong community backing.
Launched Kincumber Lodge (16 residents) while the school relocated to Narara as Glenvale Special School.
Opened Umina Op Shop and developed supported accommodation at Ettalong under Fairhaven Services Ltd.
Expanded supported accommodation and continued growing Fairhaven CoPack as a major supported employer on the Central Coast.
We wish to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and future, and recognise their continuing connection and contribution to this land and these waters.
Est. 1962. Proudly supporting the greater NSW Central Coast region including Gosford, Wyong and Lake Macquarie areas. Fairhaven Services Limited is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status with the Australian Tax Office.
ABN: 83 058 123 729.
Registered NDIS
Provider: 4-3LLM-764.
CFN: 15891.
