Delivering group-based supports under the NDIS is a vital way to build skills and social connections for people with disabilities. This guide will help you understand exactly what group-based supports are, why they matter, how they're delivered, the key professionals involved, costs, common challenges, and the latest updates—plus how to get started if you or someone you care for could benefit.

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Guide to Delivering Group-Based Supports

What Are Group-Based Supports in the NDIS?

[object Object] Group-based supports are disability services delivered to two or more participants at the same time, rather than on a one-to-one basis. These supports can occur in a variety of settings—community centres, workplaces, educational environments, or online. They include both centre-based activities (like group therapy, art, or life skills sessions) and community-based activities (like sport, volunteer work, or social outings).

Why Are Group-Based Supports Important?

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• Fosters Social Interaction: Group activities help participants build friendships, develop communication skills, and reduce social isolation.
• Skill Development: Group programs often focus on learning daily living, social, recreational, or employment-related skills.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Delivering support to several people at once can reduce per-person costs. [object Object]
• Diversity and Inclusion: Group settings expose participants to diverse experiences and perspectives.

How Do You Deliver Group-Based Supports?

[object Object] Delivering group-based supports requires careful planning, the right staffing, and a person-centred approach. Here’s an overview of the process:

Steps for Providers

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1. Assess Needs and Interests: Identify participants’ support needs, interests, and personal goals. Group participants with compatible goals and abilities together.
2. Design Activities: Create structured programs with clear objectives (e.g., cooking skills, art therapy, job readiness).
3. Staff Appropriately: Ensure staff ratios meet NDIS requirements and the needs of members in the group. Staff might include support workers, allied health professionals, or educators. [object Object]
4. Coordinate Logistics: Arrange venue, materials, transport, and accessibility features as required.
5. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review participant progress and group dynamics. Modify supports as needs change.

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For Participants and Carers

• Speak to your NDIS planner or support coordinator about including group-based supports in your plan.
• Choose provider(s) that offer the types of groups you’re interested in—NDISFinder.com can help with this! [object Object]
• Attend a session and provide feedback to tailor future supports.

Group-Based Supports & Australian Migration

[object Object] Australia is home to a vibrant and diverse population. Group-based supports can play a pivotal role for migrants and culturally diverse communities within the NDIS in the following ways:

• Cultural Inclusion: Providers can create groups specifically tailored to culturally and linguistically diverse participants. [object Object]
• Language Support: Some group-based supports offer translation or language assistance to bridge communication barriers.
• Building Community: For new arrivals, group activities may foster a sense of belonging and help with acclimatisation.
• Access to Information: Migrant participants may learn more about the Australian community, services, and opportunities in a group setting. [object Object]

Tip: Ask NDIS providers if they have experience with specific cultural or language support to meet your needs.

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Key Benefits and Features

• Enhanced Peer Support: Experiencing challenges and life milestones together builds resilience and mutual support.
• Motivation and Engagement: Being part of a group can motivate participants to stay engaged and push themselves. [object Object]
• Flexible Formats: Group-based supports can be short-term, long-term, in-person, or virtual.
• NDIS Funding: Many group-based supports are directly claimable against your NDIS plan, particularly under Core Supports or Capacity Building categories.

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Common Challenges & Solutions

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Common Professions Involved

• Disability Support Workers: Deliver day-to-day group activities and personal care.
• Allied Health Professionals: Occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychologists, and social workers often facilitate group therapy programs. [object Object]
• Support Coordinators: Help link participants to appropriate group activities and providers.
• Educators/Instructors: Deliver subject-specific programs (e.g., art, TAFE preparation).
• Registered Nurses: In health-related group supports. [object Object]

Example Scenarios

1. Group Cooking Class: Three participants work with a support worker to plan, shop for, and prepare a meal, developing both social and independent living skills. [object Object]
2. Employment Preparation Group: A team of five jobseekers attends weekly group workshops with an occupational therapist and employment coach.
3. Social Skills for Teenagers: A psychologist runs group sessions where young people practice conversation, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
4. Sports or Fitness Program: Participants join a group physical activity or adaptive sports event, under supervision of support workers. [object Object]
5. Peer Network for New Migrants: A community worker leads a multilingual group focused on community orientation.

Costs Associated with Group-Based Supports

[object Object] NDIS pays for group-based supports according to the nature of the activity, staff qualification, and participant ratios. As per the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2023-24 (correct as of June 2024):

• Hourly rates vary between $65–$105 per participant, depending on the service type and day/time. [object Object]
• Ratio-based charging: Providers bill at a group rate, dividing staff time cost by the number of participants (e.g.,