Sport
Sport is an important part of life for everyone.
People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities may find it difficult to find recreation activities where they are included with everyone; or where their support needs to engage in activities are met.
DDWA want to support people to be able to engage in sporting activities of their choice. There are lots of opportunities out there and we aim to support you to try out new activities, find supports for sports and feel included in clubs and activities. DDWA also advocates for your rights to be included in recreation activities. In 2020 DDWA produced an on-line learning resource for swimming teachers, pool workers and families to have better access to enjoyment and safety for swimming.
We hope the information below will enable you to know your rights to do activities like swimming and find sport and other fun activities that you enjoy.
Resources
Joining the Gym - 13 Easy Read books for people with intellectual disability
Autism Parents' Handbook 2025 e-Update
Online Learning
Online Learning: FlexAble - For Gym Professionals
Online Learning: Swimming for All- Enabling swimming for people with disability
This course is designed to build capacity within community fitness centres and private gyms to support the participation of people with intellectual disability and complex communication needs. It includes video modules, downloadable information and a course handbook.
This course is designed to enhance the awareness and knowledge of people who are in a position to "enable swimming for all" including children and adults with disability. There are four modules developed in consultation with people with disability, their families, swimming teachers and authorities in Australia such as the Royal Life Saving Society, Austswim and pool/leisure centre workers.
Accessible Sport and Recreation Programs in WA
Fishability
Fishability has been providing accessible fishing opportunities for children and adults with disability. Their programs include the use of accessible fishing gear such as purpose-built motorised rods, reels, and fishing holders. They provide wheelchair-accessible vessels for guided river, ocean, and estuary fishing trips, and advice on universally accessible fishing locations and facilities. Cost: Free. https://fishability.org.au/
Sailability WA
Sailbility WA offers supported sailing and learn to sail programs, which are designed to build confidence, provide skill development opportunities and offer an active experience, social interaction and enjoyment in a supportive environment. Sailing programs are hosted by Royal Perth Yacht Club. https://www.sailabilitywa.org.au/
WA Disabled Sports Association
WADSA has a directory of just about any sporting activity you can think of, and where you can find groups you can join. You can also look up activities for a particular day of the week, or for your local region.
Other Resources
Department of Communities
Disability Services has web page with links to many recreation options including “Changing places” which are venues with facilities which include hoists and changing facilities for adults.
Apply to get an Access Key (Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK)) for Changing Paces facilities here:
https://masterlocksmiths.com.au/event-6048336
You’re Welcome WA
Is a list of accessible venues in WA, including parks, beaches, playgrounds, arts and culture venues, and sporting clubs.
DDWA Services
Information, Guidance and Support
We provide information to people with disability, family members, carers and supporters, across Life Transition Stages to help you to Self-Advocate and Navigate Systems including:
- getting a diagnosis
- navigating disability services and the NDIS
- starting school and negotiating the school journey
- making friends
- turning 18
- getting a job
- staying safe and healthy
- starting a relationship
We also provide information and guidance to support you to self-advocate in any area where laws have an impact on the person with disability's life, such as information about State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) in respect to Guardianship and Administration matters, Child Protection, Enduring Power of Attorney, Advanced Health Directives and preparing for illness/death of a parent.
For a full list of the areas we cover, see our Focus Areas Page Here.
Cost – This is a free service.
Side by Side Peer Community
Side by Side began as a project in 2012 for families experiencing behaviour which could be seen as challenging. The project connects families experiencing challenging behaviour with other families though a supported peer group, an active online community and in person events. Side by Side is a safe place to receive support and help each other.
For information and how to join, contact:
Bronwyn Pike: bronwyn.pike@ddwa.org.au, or
Maggie Visser: maggie.visser@ddwa.org.au
Website: ddwa.org.au/services/family-peer-support-side-by-side
Independent Support Coordination
DDWA are a registered NDIS provider for support coordination.
We can support you to fully understand and implement the funded supports and services in your NDIS plan.
This service is currently at FULL CAPACITY.