Designing with Purpose: Steve Thomas on Assistive Technology, MND, and the Ethics of Integration

When Steve Thomas received a call to help automate lighting for a man with motor neurone disease, he assumed it would be just another small job. But that moment - and the client’s simple but powerful feedback - would spark a complete career transformation.

In this heartfelt episode, Steve opens up about his transition from high-end home automation to founding Geohaven, a business dedicated to assistive technology and specialist disability accommodation. He explains how working with vulnerable Australians has challenged his definition of good system design, and why integrators need to think differently when the user experience literally defines someone’s independence.

We also discuss his work with occupational therapists, the NDIS, the shortcomings of the SDA Design Standard, and why the industry must start preparing now for a future where technology and disability intersect more than ever before.

It’s a powerful conversation that brings meaning back to integration—and underscores why ethics matter.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thanks to our sponsor, Integrate Unlimited - the exclusive Australian distributor of MAG Theatron. Visit iunlimited.au today!

Thanks to our sponsor, Kolosseum - the design and documentation wingman you didn't know you needed. Visit kolosseum.io today!

To register, for the Ethical Technology Design Conference, visit https://cedia.swoogo.com/ausetc/register