Finding NDIS community and peer groups, online and near you

Talking to people who have been through the same things can make a big difference. Peers share tips, stories and support. This guide shows ways to find groups and events, and how to stay safe.

Why peer groups help

Peers can:

• tell you what it was like to go through a plan meeting
• share tips about providers and services
• help you feel less alone
• suggest activities and places to go
• support you when things are hard

Peer support is not a replacement for professional help. It sits alongside it.

Start with a local area coordinator

Local area coordinators (LACs) work with people with disability aged 9 to 64. The NDIS says they can link people to social and peer support groups, community groups, recreational clubs and other networks.

Some key points from the NDIS:

• You do not need to be an NDIS participant to get help from a LAC.
• You can find your nearest LAC office on the NDIS website.
• Children under 9 are supported by early childhood partners instead.
• LACs are not located in remote and very remote areas. In those places, the NDIA may connect you with an NDIS Remote Community Connector, if one is available.
• Community connections are information and links. They are not funded supports.

You can bring a friend, family member or advocate to meetings.

Groups for carers

If you are a carer, Carer Gateway offers free services across Australia. These include in-person and online peer support groups, counselling, coaching and emergency respite. You can call 1800 422 737 to see what is available for you.

Read more in the carer's guide to the NDIS.

Disability organisations and advocacy groups

Many disability organisations run groups, events and information sessions. State and territory advocacy services can also help you speak up. Your LAC, support coordinator or NDIS contact can point you to groups near you.

Check that any group is clear about who runs it, what it offers and how it protects privacy.

Online communities

Online groups can be easier to reach if you have limited energy, live far away or have transport barriers. They can also be noisy and risky.

Look for groups that:

• have clear rules about respect and privacy
• have moderators who step in
• let you block, mute and report
• explain who can join
• do not pressure you to share personal details

On Goodo, only verified participants, carers and nominees can start groups. Providers can join open groups but must follow group rules. Events belong to groups and show accessibility details like step-free entry, accessible toilets, Auslan and quiet spaces. The exact address is only shown after you say you are going. You can bring a support worker. These are Goodo's platform rules.

Choosing events

Before you go to an event, ask:

• Where is it, and how do I get there?
• Is it accessible for me? Step-free entry? Quiet space? Auslan? Seating?
• Who is hosting? Is it a person, a provider or a group?
• Is there a cost?
• Can I bring someone with me?
• What will happen if I need to leave?

If a provider hosts, check whether the event is promotional. A hosted event may be useful, but you should know who benefits. See conflicts of interest for support coordinators.

Staying safe

Good groups are friendly, but you should still be careful.

• Share only what you are comfortable with.
• Keep your address, NDIS number and logins private.
• Do not send money or bank details to anyone you meet online.
• Meet new people in public places first, and tell someone where you are going.
• Report anyone who makes you feel unsafe.

See NDIS and social media: staying safe and red flags: NDIS scams and inducements.

Start your own group

If you cannot find what you need, you could start a group. Think about:

1. What is the purpose?
2. Who is it for?
3. How will people stay safe?
4. How will you handle conflict?
5. Who will help you run it?

Set clear rules and share them. Get consent before anyone is filmed or named.

Questions to ask a group before you join

A good group is clear about how it works. Before you join, ask:

• Who runs this group, and how can I contact them?
• Who is allowed to join?
• What are the rules about respect, privacy and photos?
• Does anyone make money from the group? Is there paid promotion?
• What happens if someone breaks the rules?
• Are meetings accessible? Can I join online or in person?
• Can I leave at any time, and delete what I posted?

It is fine to watch for a while before you take part. You can listen first. You do not have to share your story until you feel ready.

When a group is not right for you

Sometimes a group does not fit. That is okay. You might feel pressured, or the topics may be too heavy. You might find the group is mostly advertising.

You can mute it, leave it, or try a different one. If someone treats you badly, report them to the group's moderators or the platform. Your wellbeing comes first. There are many other groups, and you can also ask a local area coordinator or support coordinator to suggest others.

About this guide

Goodo is independent. We are not part of, or endorsed by, the NDIA or the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This is general information, not advice. Rules change, so check ndis.gov.au or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 about your own situation.