About us

what we do

We create and build products that improve the lives of people with a disability, where there is no obvious or current solution in the market. We focus on making assistive technology more accessible and affordable for people with complex needs. 

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We work with people with a disability who have a specific need, "Need-Knowers", and connect them with a diverse group of professionals, including engineers, industrial designers, health professionals and tradespeople, "Makers". 

Together, they design and build products that solve a complex problem and improve the everyday life of the Need-Knower. Recent prototypes include robotic arms, powered crutches, wheelchair wheel cleaners and bespoke exercise machines. The intellectual property for every product is then shared through open-source Digital Product Files, so others can replicate or iterate it in their own communities around the world. 

TOM’s vision is a world in which technology and innovation allow every person access to affordable solutions to their needs. 

Mission

STEP 1

CHALLENGE

STEP 2

prototype

step 3

product

STEP 4

disseminate

OUR HISTORY

Since 2016, TOM: Melbourne has developed a range of programs, including holding Makeathon events, building a developer network, establishing TOM @ University and offering STEM workshops in schools. 

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TOM: Melbourne has seen some great impact so far. We've helped 42 people with a disability, created a network of over 400 "Makers" and partnered with innovative organisations, such as Swinburne University of Technology, PwC and Solve Disability Solutions. 

tom global communities

TOM was established in Israel in 2014 with a moonshot goal of impacting the lives of 250, 000, 000 people within a decade. 

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Five years later, TOM has established 60+ communities across 20+ countries, creating 400+ unique solutions.

DEBBIE DADON

Director

kumari fernando

General Manager

abbie gosling

Communications & Programmes Coordinator

Kellen Huang

Technology and Innovation Coordinator

our PARTNERS