Looking for fun, inclusive ways to enjoy the summer holidays with NDIS support? Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or low-key creative sessions, there are plenty of group activities that can help you stay active, connected and work towards your NDIS goals.
Why Group Activities Matter for NDIS Participants
Summer in Australia brings warm weather, longer days and the perfect chance to connect with others and explore new interests. For NDIS participants, it is also an opportunity to build social skills, boost confidence and enjoy the community in safe, supported ways.
With the help of your NDIS support worker or support coordinator, you can access a variety of group activities that align with your plan goals from community participation and capacity building to daily living support.
Here are six NDIS-friendly group activity ideas to try this summer.
Visit a Theme Park or Adventure Playground
If you are looking for excitement, start with an accessible theme park visit. Australia may not have Disneyland, but it offers thrilling and inclusive destinations. These parks are not only fun they also help participants develop important life skills, such as:
- Social interaction and communication
- Confidence in public environments
- Navigating transport and queues with support
Most theme parks accept the Companion Card, allowing your NDIS support worker to enter at no cost.
Tip: Before you go, check for accessibility features such as wheelchair access, quiet zones and accessible toilets.
Explore an Accessible Bushwalk or Nature Trail
Nature-based NDIS group activities are great for physical wellbeing and mental health. They are also low-cost and flexible, making them ideal for participants of all abilities.
Consider trying accessible trails like:
- Lady Carrington Drive – Royal National Park, NSW
- Maribyrnong River Trail – VIC
- Burleigh Heads Ocean View Walk – QLD
These experiences support:
- Light physical activity and mobility
- Calm social engagement in a natural setting
- Healthy routines and outdoor exploration
Planning tip: Choose routes with rest areas, shade and accessible amenities. Your support worker can help with pacing, hydration and encouraging interaction throughout the walk.
You can find accessible parks form this website: https://parks.qld.gov.au
Host a Games or Trivia Night
If you prefer indoor settings, a games night is a fun and accessible way to socialise. You can host it at home, a local community hub or even online making it a flexible NDIS activity.
Popular options include:
- Board games like Uno, Connect 4 or Scrabble
- Themed trivia sessions
- Cooperative video games
- Storytelling games like Dungeons & Dragons
Games support participants by encouraging:
- Communication and turn-taking
- Critical thinking and memory skills
- Inclusive and safe social participation
Support workers can help facilitate, explain game rules or adjust for different skill levels.
Enjoy a Creative Arts or Crafts Session
Creative activities offer a therapeutic and inclusive way to engage with others. Whether it is decorating, painting or crafting, this is a popular option funded under NDIS community participation supports.
Easy group craft ideas include:
- Painting and pottery workshops
- Decorating gingerbread houses or holiday cards
- Creating sensory art with textures and colours
- DIY home decorations
Arts and crafts sessions help participants:
- Strengthen fine motor skills
- Enhance focus and creativity
- Boost self-esteem through expression
You can enjoy these activities at home with your support worker or book a community class run by local art centres.
Join or Watch a Team Sport
Group sports are a fantastic way to build fitness, connection and confidence. They are ideal for NDIS participants seeking to work on their health, social skills and emotional regulation.
Consider joining or attending:
- Wheelchair basketball
- Inclusive swimming or walking groups
- Adapted tennis or yoga sessions
- Community cricket or football matches
Many local councils and sports clubs run inclusive sports programs suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
Spectating is also a great group activity. Most major venues offer accessible seating and companion ticket options for support workers.
Explore Local Events and Community Activities
Do not overlook the value of local events. Many councils and disability-inclusive organisations host free or low-cost activities during the summer.
Events to look out for include:
- Outdoor movie nights with subtitles
- Cultural festivals or holiday celebrations
- Sensory-friendly museum or gallery tours
- Art markets and live music performances
- Group beach days at accessible locations
These events give NDIS participants the chance to:
- Build independence and navigation skills
- Gain confidence in public settings
- Connect with community groups
Your support coordinator can help you identify accessible events in your area and include them as part of your NDIS plan.
About SAN Support
SAN Support is a trusted, registered NDIS provider delivering person-centred support services across Australia. We specialise in:
- Personal care and daily living support
- In-home assistance tailored to your needs
- Community participation supports
- NDIS Support Coordination
- Special Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Our team helps NDIS participant access inclusive community programs and experiences. We work closely with participants and their support networks to make the most of every opportunity. Whether you are planning your summer schedule or working on your long-term goals, we are here to support you every step of the way.