Community Participation and Inclusion

Community participation means being involved in the life of your community, whether through work, study, volunteering, social activities, recreation or civic engagement. For people with disability, community participation is about having the same opportunities as everyone else to take part and contribute.

Why Community Participation Matters

Being connected to community is important for everyone. It can improve mental health and wellbeing, build skills and confidence, create social connections, and provide a sense of purpose and belonging.

For people with disability, community participation can sometimes be more challenging due to barriers such as inaccessible venues, lack of transport, negative attitudes or limited opportunities. Inclusion is about removing these barriers so that everyone can participate.

What Inclusion Looks Like

Inclusion means more than just being physically present. It means being welcomed, valued and able to take part meaningfully. True inclusion is when a person with disability can participate on an equal basis with others.

• A person attends a community event and the venue is accessible.
• A person joins a club or group and is welcomed by other members.
• A person volunteers or works in a role that values their skills and contributions.
• A person accesses education or training that meets their needs.

Ways to Participate in the Community

Social and Recreational Activities

Joining a club, group or class is a great way to build connections. This might include sport, art, music, gardening, gaming or any other interest. Many communities have inclusive or disability-specific groups, but inclusive mainstream groups are also an option.

Education and Learning

Learning new skills, whether through formal education, short courses or informal learning, can build confidence and open up new opportunities. TAFE, community colleges and other providers offer courses that may be suitable.

Employment

Work is an important form of community participation. It provides income, purpose, social connections and a sense of achievement. There are services and supports available to help people with disability find and keep work.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a way to contribute to the community, build skills and meet people. Many organisations welcome volunteers with disability.

Civic Participation

This includes being involved in decisions that affect your community, such as local councils, advocacy groups or community consultations.

How the NDIS Can Help

For eligible participants, the NDIS can fund supports that help with community participation. This is typically covered under Core Supports (social and community participation) and Capacity Building (increased social and community participation). Supports might include:

• Assistance to attend community activities
• Support to build skills for social participation
• Transport to and from community activities
• Assistive technology that supports participation

Overcoming Barriers

If you are facing barriers to community participation, there are things that can help:

• Contact your local council to find out about accessible facilities and programs.
• Ask your support coordinator (if you have one) about community participation options.
• Look for inclusive or disability-specific groups in your area.
• Consider starting with a small, manageable activity and building from there.

Official Sources

For information about community participation supports under the NDIS, visit ndis.gov.au. The Disability Gateway also has information about community activities and services.