Building connections that matter

Start with what you enjoy

A good starting point is something you already like. Think about what you enjoy, rather than what you feel you should do. A shared interest gives you something to talk about.

Here are some community participation ideas. Pick one or two that feel comfortable.

• Hobby groups, such as art, craft, music, gardening, board games or book clubs.
• Sport and movement, such as walking groups, swimming, bowling, yoga or an inclusive sports team.
• A class at a community centre or library, such as cooking, computers or a language.
• Volunteering, for example at a community garden, an animal shelter or an op shop.
• Cultural and faith life, such as a place of worship or community celebrations.
• Everyday places, like the same café, market or library each week. Being a familiar face is a kind of connection too.

How to make friends when you have a disability

Friendships usually grow from seeing the same people again and again. A weekly group gives people time to get to know you. These ideas can help:

• Go to the same activity regularly, at the same time if you can.
• Choose activities with something to do together, like a game, a class or a shared task. It takes the pressure off talking.
• Start with a small group if big crowds feel hard.
• Take a small next step when it feels right, like swapping numbers or having a coffee after the group.
• Look for peer groups run by and for people with disability. Some people find it easier to connect with others who have similar experiences.

It's okay to go at your own pace

It is fine to leave early, try a different group or take a break. Not every group will suit you. A first visit can be short. Afterwards, think about what worked and what you would like to try next.

A support worker can help you get to activities and join in. Because they are paid to be there, it also helps to build connections outside paid support. NDIA guidance says your my NDIS contact or support coordinator can help you find clubs, groups and community organisations.

Work out the help you need to take part

Think about which part of an outing feels hard. Naming it makes it easier to ask for the right help. It might be:

• Planning: finding an activity, booking, or knowing what to expect.
• Getting there: travelling safely or learning a route. Read about transport support.
• Joining in: communication, following instructions, or getting changed for sport.
• Personal care while you are out, such as eating or using the bathroom. Read about personal care.
• Feeling settled: anxiety, sensory overload, or needing a quiet break.

Community groups have a part to play

NDIA guidance says community organisations, shops and sporting clubs must take steps to remove barriers you face because of your disability. These are called reasonable adjustments. Examples include ramps, changing game rules so you can join in, or a light instead of a sound to start a race.

How NDIS funding can relate to community participation

NDIA guidance says it may fund the extra help you need to take part in social and recreation activities because of your disability. You pay the costs everyone pays, such as entry fees, memberships and standard equipment.

Whether a support is funded depends on your plan and what the NDIA agrees is reasonable and necessary. These support categories are the most closely linked to community connection:

• Core – Assistance with Social, Economic and Community Participation. This can pay support workers to help you take part in your community and your interests. Core funding is flexible across your core categories.
• Capacity Building – Increased Social and Community Participation. This is for building skills, such as social skills training, making new friends, building your social network and becoming more independent.
• Capacity Building – Relationships (called Improved Relationships in older plans). This can include social skills development.

Changes to community participation budgets from 1 October 2026

Under the new NDIS laws, budgets for Social, Economic and Community Participation are being reduced. This happens as plans are created or reassessed from 1 October 2026, or renewed from 1 February 2027. The NDIA says the impact will be different for each person, and some supports in this category are not affected. You can keep using your current plan until it is reassessed or renewed.

This change is not a reviewable decision. But you can ask for a plan reassessment or variation after a significant and ongoing change, such as in your informal support. Ask your my NDIS contact how it applies to you.

Putting connection goals in your NDIS plan

Your goals help the NDIA understand what supports may be needed. The NDIS says goals can include social and recreation activities, and building friendships or connecting with family. More goals doesn't mean more funding. If your goals change, the NDIS can update them without a new plan.

Write goals in your own words. A big goal can have small steps under it. For example:

• Big goal: I want to have friends to spend time with outside my home.
• Step: I want to try two different groups this year and keep going to one I like.
• Step: I want to learn the bus route to my group so I can travel with less help.

Talking with Heart for Care

If you would like help to get out and about, tell us what you enjoy and which part feels hard. Read about our community participation support, or contact us on 1800 148 857 or admin@heartforcare.com.au. A family member, carer or support coordinator can also make a referral.