About us

Nearly 40 years of community

Karabi began in 1987 as a small not-for-profit, and grew — through the commitment of local people — into a key community organisation across the Cumberland, Blacktown and Parramatta areas.

Our story

From a small cottage to three centres

Before 1987 we were known as Toongabbie Community Services. When the organisation grew, the local community chose a new name: Karabi, a Darug word for the Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo, after the flocks that gather across this area.

Today Karabi applies a community development approach — working alongside residents to plan, deliver and evaluate the social, recreational and educational activities that matter to them. Our main aim is simple: reduce social isolation and help everyone take part in community life.

Karabi is governed by a volunteer Management Committee drawn from the local community, and is a registered charity and NDIS provider.

1987
The community chooses the name Karabi as the organisation grows beyond Toongabbie Community Services.
1999
A newly funded project opens at the Toongabbie Neighbourhood Cottage — now Karabi Seven Hills.
2009
Karabi’s third centre opens at Constitution Hill with two newly funded community projects.
Today
Three neighbourhood centres serving the Cumberland, Blacktown and Parramatta local government areas.

What guides us

Vision, purpose & values

Our vision

A connected, inclusive community where everyone can participate fully in life, whatever their age, ability or background.

Our purpose

To reduce social isolation and enhance community participation through programs, activities and support that local people help shape.

Our values

Respect, inclusion and care — welcoming every person, honouring every culture, and supporting communities to make decisions about their own lives.

Annual reports & governance

Karabi publishes annual reports and is governed by a volunteer Management Committee. Contact us for copies or governance information.