#1 See your city from above.

Sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist in your own town.

• The Sydney Tower Eye

Experience 360-degree views of Sydney from the top of the Sydney Tower Eye. The main observation area is entirely wheelchair accessible.

• Sydney Harbour Bridge

The BridgeClimb provides many inclusive experiences: Auslan guided tours, hearing loops, continuous handrails and a lift scheduled to be installed later this year! If you’re a Sydneysider, you can currently get a discounted climb.

#2 Hit the music scene

Sydney’s top music venues run many programs with inclusion in mind. The below locations offer accessible tours, wheelchair seats, Auslan interpreters, ‘relaxed’ performances, closed captioning and audio descriptions (most will also accept the Companion Card).

• Sydney Opera House 

• Sydney Theatre Company 

• Ensemble Theatre 

• City Recital Hall 

If you’re interested in some festival fun, the Sydney Festival or Vivid festival transforms the city with art, music, dance and theatre experiences each year. Many ‘relaxed’ performances are designed for adults with disabilities and usually have modified sound, lighting, support aids and dedicated quiet areas.

#3 Explore the art world

Sydneysiders of all abilities can enjoy the city’s art and culture. In fact,  Most of Sydney’s galleries and museums provide mobility access, free entry to Companion Card holders, and accessible tours and programs.

• The Museum of Contemporary Art

The MCA works to connect people with disability and access requirements with contemporary art. Of particular note is their Bella Program, which offers free activities for disabled adults, allowing them to experience the art and engage creatively.

• The Art Gallery of NSW 

The Art Gallery of NSW supports all-inclusive art experiences. They offer tactile and sensory tours and Auslan and audio-described tours.

• The Australian Museum

The Australian Museum welcomes all visitors regardless of their ability. They offer quiet time sessions as well as tactile and sensory tours. There is no cost to enter, so if you’ve been wondering about free activities for disabled adults in Sydney, this could be the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon

#4 Reconnect with nature

Extensive research has shown that spending time outdoors can boost physical and mental health in a range of ways. Living with a disability should not prevent anyone from getting outside to soak up the benefits of nature. 

• The Royal Botanic Gardens

One of Sydney’s best places to enjoy the outdoors. With no admission fee, this is another of the city’s excellent free activities for disabled adults in Sydney. Plan your day, find mobility parking and read about wheelchair access on their website.

• Taronga Zoo

Another great fresh air option! Taronga is located on Sydney’s north shore and is accessible via a short ferry ride from Circular Quay with roll-on/off access. On select days throughout the year, Taronga hosts ‘Access Taronga’ days, welcoming guests with autism to enjoy the peace of the zoo before it opens to the public.  

#5 Engage in your local community

Social interaction is key to maintaining overall wellbeing. If you or your loved one have any form of disability, community connection could be a step towards leading a happier and more meaningful life. 

One of the benefits of living in a city is that there are many social groups for adults with disabilities.  A quick Google search will help you find appropriate groups based on age, ability and interest. Check out any of the following as a starting point:

• The Gig Buddies matches one of their volunteers to an adult with a disability in Sydney. Buddies are paired based on mutual interests and go out once a month for a year (or longer). 

• The Centre For Disability Studies hosts catch-ups where people of all abilities can build friendships, socialise, and get more confidence. This group meets in accessible locations across Sydney.

• Achieve Australia runs ‘Friday Hangout’ sessions – social gatherings where adults with disabilities can make new friends and participate in enjoyable activities.

• Focus care offers a range of therapeutic programs which can be enjoyed in engaging group settings. Available in Sydney (and online), these social groups for adults with disabilities range from art therapy to dance to music.

There will be times when you aren’t able to get out and socialise (and times when you just won’t feel like it). Luckily, you can stay connected from the comfort of your home. Consider using video call platforms (Zoom, Facetime) to see loved ones. Engaging in meaningful conversations with people you know and trust provides an invaluable sense of belonging and well-being.

While you’re trying new tech, why not download one of the best new apps for people with a disability? You may find a new technology to support you next time you go out. 

#6 Get active

For some individuals, sport and fitness may seem out of reach. However, Sydney is host to various sporting activities for adults with disabilities. From sound ball tennis to chair yoga, there’s a range of programs to suit everyone. 

• What’s On?

Sydney’s ‘What’s On’ website has an ever-evolving list of inclusive sports and recreation activities. Keep an eye on it for the most up-to-date information.

• Workout at home

Due to COVID-19, many Australians have had to explore new ways of living (currently in isolation? Read our Dealing with a pandemic blog for tips on getting through lockdown). For exercise, many have turned to online workouts as an innovative way to keep active. You can also check out Disability Sports Australia’s extensive list of online fitness resources.

How can Focus Care help?

Want to get out and about? We’re here to help! 

Focus Care is a registered NDIS service provider, offering personalised support tailored to your needs and preferences. We can join you for an outing - or suggest ways to support your next adventure. 

If you're planning a broader excursion – check out our top activities in Melbourne.

If you are looking for a service provider which offers Support Coordination, assistance with daily life, creative therapies, and more, contact us today.