Future Living was developed under the auspices of the Activ Foundation in the 1980’s and incorporated in 1989 as The Hawkevale Trust, a not for profit charitable organisation.
The Trust was established in response to the increasingly familiar question raised by parents “Who will look out for our child when we are no longer able to?”
Founding Chairman, Mr Les Walter, who was well recognised for his pioneering work within the disability sector, set out to answer this question by providing a unique range of services aimed at giving parents a peace of mind and their children a safe and secure future.
In 2011 the name was changed to Future Living Trust to better reflect the vision and a successful philanthropic fundraising campaign to help secure the organisation’s long term future commenced.
Our History
A Legacy of Supporting Families for More Than 40 Years
Future Living Trust was born from a powerful movement of families seeking better support for their children with disability at a time when few services existed. In the early days of the Slow Learning Children’s Group (later Activ Foundation), parents, many facing the future alone, came together to create connection, share support, and build practical solutions.
Driven largely by volunteers and community members, early initiatives such as peer support programs, respite services, and playgroups provided families with much-needed relief and a sense of belonging. These grassroots efforts laid the foundation for a more supportive and inclusive community.
As the sector evolved and many family-focused programs were lost, Hawkevale Trust was established to ensure long-term safeguarding and future planning for people with disability, particularly when parents could no longer provide care.
Over time, this work grew into what is now Future Living Trust, an independent organisation dedicated to supporting families through safeguarding, trust management, and future planning services.
Today, while systems have changed, our purpose remains the same: to support families, strengthen futures, and ensure no one walks alone.
Corbett's Story
John and Keith Corbett
Corbett the Bear is named after John and Keith Corbett, a father and son whose story is at the heart of what Future Living does every day.
John Corbett was a WWII veteran and passionate advocate for people with disability in WA. He championed ideals like special schooling, independent living, and community participation long before they were widely accepted.
His son Keith, who had Down Syndrome, was often by his side. As John aged, his greatest worry was who would look out for Keith when he was no longer around. He found his answer in Future Living.
Corbett the Bear's Story
Corbett the Bear - named in honor of John and Keith
With Future Living’s help, John put a future plan in place for Keith, including a regular visitor for companionship and advocacy, and a trust fund through his Will to support Keith’s ongoing needs.
After John passed away, Future Living carried out everything John had arranged. Keigh had a dedicated visitor who provided not only companionship but also advocacy, and a trust fund ensured his ongoing needs were met, from everyday support to things like new bedroom furniture when he moved into a new home.
Keith enjoyed life to the fullest, but like everyone he had his ups and downs. Through health challenges and life changes, Future Living and his visitor were always there to advocate for him when he needed it most.
Whilst Keith and John are no longer with us, their legacy lives on in Corbett the Bear and in the work Future Living does every day.
Not for Profit charity helping families across Western Australia for over 30 years
We support families to create specialist wills and estate plans and establish future safeguards. We know that every family’s journey is different, which is why we always get to know you and your situation personally.
Independent
As an independent provider operating outside of day-to-day care, we keep our focus on the best advice for your family.
Experienced
In making important decisions for your family, it’s reassuring to know you are working with a team of experienced professionals.
Personalised
Your family is unique and therefore we take time to listen, understand and genuinely connect with you.
