Group programs for people with disability: social connection through the NDIS
Oct 20, 2026 | emmaodell | Inclusion, Social Groups, Home & Community Support | Disability Support, Social group programs, NDIS funded programs, Support Coordination
Finding the right group program can make a real difference to someone's week, offering a reason to get out, meet people, and build skills alongside others. For people with disability in Melbourne, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can help fund this kind of group activity.
This article looks at the types of disability group programs available and how NDIS funding fits in.
Why group programs matter
Group programs give people with disability regular opportunities to build friendships, try new activities, and practice skills in a relaxed, supported setting. For many participants, social connection is just as important a goal as any specific skill, and group settings let people work towards both at once.
Types of group programs
Group programs generally fall into a few broad types:
Social groups: focused on connection and friendship, such as regular catch-ups or outings with peers.
Recreational groups: built around shared activities like sport, art, music or outings into the community.
Skills-based groups: aimed at building specific abilities, such as cooking, budgeting or communication skills, alongside others working towards similar goals.
Many programs blend these elements, since a cooking group, for example, can build both a skill and a social connection at the same time.
How NDIS funding applies
Group programs are commonly funded under Core Supports, specifically the social and community participation sub-category. This is the National Disability Insurance Agency's (NDIA) most flexible budget area, designed to fund everyday activities and support to take part in the community. Whether a specific program fits within someone's plan, and how much funding is allocated, is decided during the NDIA planning process, not guaranteed in advance.
Support to attend a group program, such as a Support Worker accompanying a participant, can also be funded under the same Core Supports category. It's worth discussing with your planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) how group program attendance fits your specific goals before assuming a particular funding amount.
What to look for in a group program
When considering a group program, it can help to think about:
Whether the group's focus (social, recreational or skills-based) matches your goals.
The size of the group and level of support provided.
How the program connects with other supports in your plan, such as Support Coordination.
How Y Inclusion's group programs work
Y Inclusion runs group programs as part of our broader NDIS Home and Community supports, alongside Respite Camps and Holiday programs. Our group programs bring participants together for social, recreational and skills-based activities in a supported environment.
Frequently asked questions
What funding category covers group programs?
Group programs are typically funded under Core Supports, in the social and community participation sub-category, though this depends on individual plans as determined by the NDIA.
Can a support worker attend a group program with me?
Support to attend a group activity can be funded under Core Supports where the NDIA has included it in a plan. Speak with your planner about how this applies to you.
How do I know if a group program suits me?
It's worth thinking about your goals for social connection, recreation or skill-building, and discussing options with your Support Coordinator or our team.
If group programs sound like something you'd like to explore, see our group programs or find out more about our broader services. You can see our scheduled group programs in our Calendar & Events.