After 10 years of supporting people with a disability through co-designed assistive technology and inclusive innovation, TOM: Melbourne will be closing on 30 June 2026.
Founded in 2016, TOM: Melbourne brought together people living with a disability, engineers, designers, clinicians, and students – our Need-Knowers, Makers, and Solvers – to co-create practical, meaningful solutions. It has been a model built on community, creativity, and trust.
This decision reflects a broader shift in the funding landscape, which has made it increasingly difficult for small, innovation-focused organisations to operate sustainably. Rather than continue in a way that creates financial uncertainty, we have made the decision to close responsibly.
We are deeply proud of the community, partnerships, and impact built over the past decade. Our sincere thanks go to our team, our volunteers, and everyone who has been part of this journey.
What This Means
- No new programs or projects will commence
- All current activities will conclude by 30 June 2026
- Our team is focused on closing responsibly and supporting a smooth transition for everyone involved
- Personal information held by TOM: Melbourne will be managed in accordance with our privacy policy
Key Dates
- Final program activity: 30 June 2026
- Organisation closure: 30 June 2026
- Website archive transition: [unsure no later than 30 Dec 2026]
FAQs
Why is TOM: Melbourne closing?
The funding environment for small, innovation-focused not-for-profits has become increasingly constrained. Rather than continue in a way that creates financial uncertainty, we have made the decision to close responsibly.
Are any programs continuing?
No new programs will commence. All activities will conclude by 30 June 2026.
What happens to existing projects or collaborations?
We are working with partners to ensure a smooth transition. If you are involved in a current project, we will be in touch where possible – or you are welcome to reach out directly at [email protected].
Will resources still be available?
Key resources, reports, and materials will remain accessible on this website for a period following closure. We will confirm the archive date closer to June.
Can I still volunteer or get involved?
We are no longer onboarding new volunteers. We are genuinely grateful to everyone who has contributed their time, skills, and energy over the years.
What happens to my personal information?
Personal information held by TOM: Melbourne will be managed in accordance with our privacy policy. If you have specific questions, please contact us at [email protected].
What happens to your social media channels?
Our social channels will remain active for a short period after our closing. After that, accounts will be archived.
Legacy
Over the past decade, TOM: Melbourne has been powered by a simple but powerful idea – that the people who live with a challenge are best placed to help solve it.
Through our Makeathons and ongoing community partnerships, we brought together Need-Knowers, Makers, and Solvers to co-create solutions that made a real difference in people’s lives. We are proud of the ideas sparked, the partnerships formed, and the lives touched.
The work mattered. The community endures.
Contact
For enquiries during this transition: [email protected]
