NDIS Social and Community Participation — at no cost

What social and community participation looks like

This support is about getting out and taking part — with as much or as little help as you need to make that happen.

• Group day programs and centre-based activities
• One-to-one support for outings
• Sport, swimming and recreation
• Arts, music and hobby groups
• Volunteering and social clubs

Group or one-to-one?

Group programs suit people who enjoy company and a regular routine, and they usually cost less per hour. One-to-one support suits people who want to choose their own activities, need closer assistance, or find groups overwhelming. Plenty of people use both.

Getting there matters as much as the activity itself, so it is worth asking whether the provider drives, or whether you need transport support as well. If you are looking for a regular worker to go out with, see support workers.

What community participation support can help you do

Community participation support exists to help you take part in ordinary life outside the home — seeing people, learning something, joining in, contributing. The activity itself is only half of it; the other half is the help that makes it possible, whether that is a worker travelling with you, assistance once you arrive, or someone to build your confidence over a few visits.

Common goals people describe to us include making friends and keeping in touch with them, joining a group that meets regularly, trying sport or swimming, taking up an art or music class, volunteering, or simply getting comfortable using local shops, libraries and transport independently.

There is no fixed list, because the point is your goals rather than a programme. If what you want is not typical, say so — it is easier to match a provider to a clearly described goal than to a generic request.

Finding community participation support that suits you

When you enquire, describe the kind of activities you are interested in, how much support you need while you are out, whether you would prefer a group or one-to-one, and the area you live in. Mention any access requirements and whether getting to and from the activity is part of what you need.

Our team uses that to connect you with disability-support providers to consider, free of charge. What each provider actually runs, where they run it and whether they have room is for them to confirm — we do not hold live availability information. Read how provider matching works for what happens after you enquire.