Inclusive Sports Access
For support coordinators

Sport can be a real community pathway, not just an activity on a list.

For some people, sport is about movement. For others it is routine, confidence, social connection, independence or belonging. The role of a support coordinator is often to help the person find a realistic starting point and the right questions to ask.

NDIS and sportFind sports
At a glance

Key takeaways

Sport is community participation

A good sport option can support routine, confidence, friendship and local connection.

Match the environment

The best option may depend on noise, transport, pacing, support and the person's goals.

Prepare the first contact

Support coordinators can help turn broad goals into practical questions for clubs and programs.

Do not give funding shortcuts

NDIS decisions depend on the person's plan and circumstances, so specific funding advice needs care.

Support planning

The useful work is often before the first session.

Support coordinators can help a person move from a broad goal like getting active or meeting people into a realistic first step. That might mean identifying suitable sports, checking access, drafting the first message or helping the person decide what information they want to share.

The aim is not to push sport as a cure-all. It is to help people explore community participation in a way that respects choice, safety and confidence.

Start with goals

Connect sport to what the person wants from life.

Good sport choices come from the participant's goals, not a generic list of programs. Ask what they want more of. Friends? Fitness? Confidence? A weekend routine? A way to be part of the local community?

From there, look for environments that match the person's preferences, support needs and transport reality.

Practical process

A simple way to explore options.

1

Map interests

List sports, activities and settings the person is curious about, including non-competitive options.

2

Check access

Ask about venue access, communication, support people, session structure and sensory environment.

3

Plan the first visit

Consider transport, timing, what to bring, who attends and how to leave if it becomes too much.

4

Review gently

After the session, ask what felt good, what felt hard and what should change next time.

NDIS note

Keep funding conversations careful and specific.

This site does not decide what the NDIS will fund. It can help with the participation side of the conversation, such as why a sport or recreation activity may support community access, confidence or social connection.

Always check the participant's plan, goals and current NDIS guidance. When in doubt, ask the participant's planner, LAC or relevant professional support.

Related guides

Helpful pages for support planning.

NDIS and sport

General guidance for conversations around sport, recreation and supports.

Read more

Inclusive sports for adults

Participation options for adults starting or returning to sport.

Read more

Locations

Browse state and territory guides.

Read more
Questions people ask

Helpful questions

Can a support coordinator recommend a specific club?

You can help a participant compare options, ask questions and make an informed choice. Check current provider, conflict and duty of care obligations that apply to your role.

Should sport be competitive?

No. Many people are looking for movement, confidence, social connection or routine. A non-competitive program may be the better first step.

What should a support coordinator ask about sport?

Ask what the person wants from participation, what supports they need to attend safely, what barriers exist and whether the activity connects to their goals and community life.

Can support coordinators recommend specific clubs?

Be careful. It is usually better to provide options, help the person compare them and encourage direct checks with the club or official organisation.

What records are useful after a first session?

Note what worked, what was difficult, what support was used, whether the person wants to return and what needs to be clarified before the next visit.

How can support coordinators help without taking over?

Ask the person what role they want you to play. Some people may want help finding options, while others may want support with transport, first contact or reflecting after the session.

Keep going

Related guides

Winter inclusive sports guide

Plan cold-weather sport with comfort, access, warm-up and first-session tips.

Read more