Making Your Community Group NDIS-Friendly: Practical Tips for Inclusion

# Making Your Community Group NDIS-Friendly: Practical Tips for Inclusion Creating an inclusive community where people with disability can participate fully isn't just about good intentions—it's about implementing practical strategies that work. With [717,001 Australians participating in the NDIS](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-march-2025-published?utm_source=chatgpt.com) as of March 2025, community groups have an unprecedented opportunity to build meaningful connections and support social participation goals. The data is encouraging: [participants aged 15+ in the NDIS for at least two years saw a 23 percent relative increase in community and social activities](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-march-2025-published?utm_source=chatgpt.com), demonstrating the real impact of inclusive practices. Making your community group NDIS-friendly requires understanding both the practical needs of participants and the funding mechanisms that support their involvement. This comprehensive guide will walk you through proven strategies for creating welcoming, accessible environments that benefit everyone in your community. ## Understanding the NDIS and Community Involvement The National Disability Insurance Scheme fundamentally recognises that community participation is essential for wellbeing and personal development. [Nearly two-thirds (66 percent) of participants aged 15–64 spend free time in activities that interest them](https://www.aihw.gov.au/australias-disability-strategy/outcomes/inclusive-homes-and-communities/ndis-participants-pursuing-interests?utm_source=chatgpt.com), highlighting the importance of accessible community options. Community involvement through the NDIS operates on multiple levels. [Local Area Coordinators assist people aged 9–64 to connect with community groups and mainstream services, even pre-eligibility](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/home/community-connections/how-do-you-get-community-connections?utm_source=chatgpt.com), while [around 200 Remote Community Connectors support people with disability across 480 remote communities](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/what-ndis/whos-delivering-ndis/what-community-connector?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This extensive network means community groups have professional support available to facilitate connections. The NDIS funding model recognises that [social and recreation supports are fundable where they meet "reasonable and necessary" criteria: related to disability, value for money, likely effective, and not duplicating informal or mainstream supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This creates opportunities for community groups to work collaboratively with participants and their support networks. Understanding this framework helps community groups position themselves as valuable partners in participants' journeys toward greater independence and social connection. The key is recognising that inclusion benefits everyone—creating richer, more diverse communities where all members can contribute their unique perspectives and talents. ## Implementing Reasonable Adjustments Reasonable adjustments form the foundation of NDIS-friendly community participation. These modifications enable meaningful engagement without fundamentally changing your group's purpose or activities. [Examples include support workers to assist with mobility or personal care during group activities, mentoring programs, peer-led befriending, and accessible transport](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Physical adjustments often provide the most immediate impact. Consider Adeem's experience: [a wheelchair user joins a robotics group at his library. The library's ramp is a reasonable adjustment; NDIS funded a support worker for transfers during sessions](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This example demonstrates how simple infrastructure modifications combined with personalised support enable full participation. Communication adjustments are equally important. Many participants benefit from multiple communication modes—plain English materials, visual schedules, or sign language interpretation. The key is offering options rather than assuming one approach works for everyone. [Participants may include reasonable adjustment costs (ramps, signage, communication aids) in their plans if these enable meaningful engagement in community group activities](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Activity modifications might involve adjusting timing, breaking complex tasks into smaller steps, or providing additional practice opportunities. For example, a cooking class might offer pre-preparation sessions for participants who need extra time to familiarise themselves with recipes and techniques. These adjustments enhance the experience for everyone while ensuring no one is excluded due to their disability. Documentation plays a crucial role in successful adjustments. [Document reasonable adjustments and participant feedback, so planners can review and fund ongoing supports in subsequent plans](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This creates a feedback loop that improves both your group's inclusivity and participants' access to appropriate funding. ## Co-Designing Inclusive Activities Co-design transforms community groups from service providers into collaborative partners. This approach recognises that people with disability are the experts on their own needs and preferences. [Co-design sessions—with participants, carers and LACs—ensure programs reflect diverse needs; use buddy or mentor systems to onboard new members effectively](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10452-participant-reference-group-meeting-summary-16-and-17-july-2024?utm_source=chatgpt.com). The process begins with genuine consultation. Rather than assuming what participants want, successful groups regularly gather feedback through surveys, focus groups, and informal conversations. [A Participant Reference Group pilot used a buddy-mentor system to onboard new members, ensuring they understood meeting protocols and could contribute effectively](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10452-participant-reference-group-meeting-summary-16-and-17-july-2024?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This model can be adapted for any community group seeking to improve inclusion. Cultural considerations are essential in co-design processes. With [approximately 60,000 NDIS participants from CALD backgrounds](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10053-cald-community-co-design-new-ndis-cald-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com), groups must consider diverse cultural perspectives. The [CALD Strategy 2024–2028 was shaped by over 800 community voices](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10053-cald-community-co-design-new-ndis-cald-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com), demonstrating the value of broad consultation. Practical co-design might involve participants helping to choose activity themes, suggesting modifications to existing programs, or identifying barriers they've experienced elsewhere. [Carers Qld's Inclusive Community Gardens Forum 2023 brought garden hosts and participants together to share inclusion strategies, such as raised beds and sensory plantings](https://www.ndis.gov.au/events/9669-community-gardens-conversations?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This collaborative approach resulted in concrete improvements that benefited all garden users. Regular review ensures co-design remains dynamic rather than a one-off consultation. Successful groups establish ongoing feedback mechanisms, seasonal planning sessions, and annual reviews where participants can evaluate what's working and suggest improvements. This creates a culture of continuous improvement and shared ownership. ## Training and Supporting Staff and Volunteers Well-trained staff and volunteers are the backbone of inclusive community groups. [Training staff and volunteers in disability–inclusive practice, peer mentoring and safeguarding principles](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10452-participant-reference-group-meeting-summary-16-and-17-july-2024?utm_source=chatgpt.com) creates confident, capable teams who can respond appropriately to diverse needs. Foundational training should cover disability awareness, communication strategies, and basic support techniques. However, the most effective training goes beyond theoretical knowledge to include practical scenarios and role-playing exercises. Staff need to understand not just what to do, but how to maintain dignity and respect while providing support. Safeguarding training is particularly important given recent NDIS developments. [Participant Safeguarding Policy co-design will roll out enhanced risk approaches and a new planning pathway through mid-2031 to better protect participants](https://www.ndis.gov.au/community/making-ndis-stronger-together/co-designing-reform/participant-safeguarding?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Community groups should stay informed about these developments and ensure their practices align with evolving standards. [Providers should maintain an inclusion policy covering accessibility standards, staff training, and incident reporting aligned with NDIS Quality and Safeguards requirements](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10053-cald-community-co-design-new-ndis-cald-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Even groups that aren't registered NDIS providers benefit from adopting similar standards, as they demonstrate commitment to best practice inclusion. Ongoing professional development ensures skills remain current. This might include attending workshops on specific disabilities, learning about new assistive technologies, or participating in cultural competency training. Many LACs and disability organisations offer free training opportunities that community groups can access. Creating mentorship programs within your organisation helps embed inclusive practices. Experienced volunteers can guide newcomers, sharing practical tips and helping build confidence. This peer-to-peer learning often proves more effective than formal training sessions, as it provides real-world context and ongoing support. ## Overcoming Common Challenges Even well-intentioned community groups face obstacles when implementing inclusive practices. Understanding common challenges and proven solutions helps groups navigate these issues successfully. Accessibility barriers often seem overwhelming initially. [Barrier: Inaccessible venues. Solution: Conduct an accessibility audit; apply minor building works as plan-includable reasonable adjustments](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Many accessibility improvements are less expensive than groups anticipate, and NDIS funding may be available to support necessary modifications. Communication challenges require creative solutions. [Barrier: Communication differences. Solution: Offer multiple communication modes (plain English, Auslan, pictorial schedules) as a reasonable adjustment](https://ndis.gov.au/about-us/strategies/cultural-and-linguistic-diversity-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com). The key is providing options rather than trying to find one perfect solution for everyone. Cultural misunderstandings can create significant barriers for participants from diverse backgrounds. [Barrier: Cultural misunderstandings. Solution: Engage CALD liaison officers or interpreters, use translated materials and co-design activities with CALD participants](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10053-cald-community-co-design-new-ndis-cald-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Building relationships with cultural community leaders helps groups understand and address specific cultural considerations. Funding confusion often prevents both groups and participants from accessing available support. [Barrier: Funding confusion. Solution: Provide participants with clear invoicing aligned to NDIS Price Guide items and collaborate with plan managers/support coordinators](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Transparency in pricing and clear communication about what services are available helps participants make informed decisions about their support needs. ## Conclusion Creating NDIS-friendly community groups requires commitment, planning, and ongoing collaboration with participants and their support networks. The strategies outlined—implementing reasonable adjustments, co-designing activities, training staff, and proactively addressing challenges—create environments where everyone can participate meaningfully. The evidence demonstrates that inclusive practices benefit entire communities. [80 percent of those aged 15+ reported greater choice and control after two years in the Scheme](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-march-2025-published?utm_source=chatgpt.com), showing the positive impact of accessible community participation opportunities. Remember that [community groups do not need NDIS registration to host participants; however, registered providers can deliver plan-managed or self-managed supports directly](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This flexibility allows groups to choose their level of formal involvement while still creating welcoming, inclusive environments. For personalised guidance on implementing these strategies in your specific context, consider connecting with [Sandi](https://sandi.app). Our platform provides tailored advice and resources to help community groups navigate the NDIS landscape successfully while creating truly inclusive environments for all participants. ## References 1. [NDIS Community Connections Guidelines](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/home/community-connections/how-do-you-get-community-connections?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 2. [NDIS Community Connectors](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/what-ndis/whos-delivering-ndis/what-community-connector?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 3. [Social and Recreation Support Guidelines](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/social-and-community-participation/social-and-recreation-support/how-do-we-decide-if-social-and-recreation-supports-meet-ndis-funding-criteria?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 4. [NDIS CALD Strategy 2024-2028](https://ndis.gov.au/about-us/strategies/cultural-and-linguistic-diversity-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 5. [NDIS CALD Community Co-design](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10053-cald-community-co-design-new-ndis-cald-strategy?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 6. [Participant Reference Group Meeting Summary](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10452-participant-reference-group-meeting-summary-16-and-17-july-2024?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 7. [NDIS Quarterly Report March 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-march-2025-published?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 8. [NDIS Participants Pursuing Interests](https://www.aihw.gov.au/australias-disability-strategy/outcomes/inclusive-homes-and-communities/ndis-participants-pursuing-interests?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 9. [Local Area Coordination Partners](https://ndis.gov.au/understanding/what-ndis/whos-delivering-ndis/local-area-coordination-partners?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 10. [Community Connections Types](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/home/community-connections/what-type-community-connections-are-available?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 11. [Reasonable and Necessary Supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 12. [Community Gardens Conversations](https://www.ndis.gov.au/events/9669-community-gardens-conversations?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 13. [Participant Safeguarding Co-design](https://www.ndis.gov.au/community/making-ndis-stronger-together/co-designing-reform/participant-safeguarding?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

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Making Your Community Group NDIS-Friendly: Practical Tips for Inclusion

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Making Your Community Group NDIS-Friendly: Practical Tips for Inclusion