What to do in the School Holidays
This resource includes
Holiday Activities and Camps
School holiday activities give children living with a disability the opportunity to share in fun experiences they may not be able to enjoy at home, in an environment where they are provided with appropriate support. It also gives parents and carers the chance to spend time with children in a relaxed environment.
Below find a list that we have compiled by state:
Living in NSW? Find out more about the NSW Sports and Creative Kids Voucher - $100 voucher for selected activities (sport and cultural).
National |
| Bricks for Kidz (find a location near you) Bring them along to our awesome programs running during the school break. Use the Bricks 4 Kids Location Finder to find your closest location. 5-12 years Disability Inclusive Various Per location |
Disabled Surfers Association of Australia The DSAA runs events and programs designed to give people of all ages with any disability the opportunity to learn how to surf. DSAA is nationwide with participating branches in NSW, WA, SA, VIC and QLD. Use the contact tab on the website to find contact details for a participating club near you. All ages All disabilities Various |
| Skills and Thrills Skills and thrills offer an extensive range of activities for kids to participate in during the school holidays. Book and pay through their website. These activities are not targeted towards children with a disability but may be disability-inclusive. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Various |
| Sony Camps CURRENT CAMP LIST Send an Enquiry to any of these Sony Camp Locations for more info and the dates of their summer camp National |
| Starfish Nippers Run by a host of Surf Life Saving Clubs around Australia, Starfish Nippers is a Life-Saving skills program designed for children with a disability. 6+ years Various Various Contact one of the clubs listed to the left of the screen on this link (http://www.starfishnippers.com.au/current-clubs/) to inquire about a Starfish Nippers program near you |
| The Sony Foundation Holiday Camps (holiday camps for special needs kids in all states) A unique respite program that sees high school and university students take on the responsibility for the care of children with special needs, allowing their families to have a valuable weekend off. Various |
| Uniting Care (NATIONAL) Uniting Care offer Vacation care at all their locations across Aus. SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE to use their location finder and see if a centre is near you. National 1800 864 846 |
| YMCA (vacation care finder) Our holiday programs are created with the right mixture of fun, adventure and interest-based activities through excursions and incursions helping kids become more confident and independent individuals. 5 – 12 years National 03 8371 0500 |
| Gymnastics Australia At clubs across the nation, Gymnastics Australia offers a variety of programs for children with disabilities. These differ club to club. Clubs supporting children with disabilities have been denoted with a 'GymAbility' logo (see link for details). Search a for a club in your area by postcode and program ('Inclusive {rogram'). School Holiday availability will also differ from club to club. All ages Various |
ACT |
| Code It Yourself Camps are a one-day (6 hour) session in the school holidays for young technology enthusiasts. We run a selection of one-day camps in various tech skills including: game coding, 3D printing, website creation and Minecraft. To reach out via email, access contact form on main website. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Various 1300 761 254 |
| Cerebral Palsy Alliance Teens adventure camp, Skill builders Intensive, Survivor Getaway, Intensive learn to swim. 5-25 years Acquired brain injury Allambie Heights, Kippax 1300 888 378 |
| Code It Yourself Camps are a one-day (6 hour) session in the school holidays for young technology enthusiasts. We run a selection of one-day camps in various tech skills including: game coding, 3D printing, website creation and Minecraft. To reach out via email, access contact form on main website. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Various 1300 761 254 |
| Communities @ Work Movies, Obstacle Course, Circus Dance Party, Hero Dress Up, Magical Music and more. A new adventure every day! 18 years & under Disability Inclusive Tuggeranong, Gungahlin 02 6293 6500 |
| Forward to the future Forward to the Future is a small family operated business that provides customised support to clients with autism and other disabilities. Throughout the year, you can find social clubs, film making workshops, cooking classes and much more available to book through their platform. 5+ years Autism, various other disabilities Various 02 6231 7226 |
| Woden Community Service Bookings for the December 2019 and January 2020 School Holidays will open at 10am on Monday 25 November 2019. All bookings will be managed using QK Enrol (My Family Lounge) using the casual bookings calendar on the APP. 5-12 years Woden 02 6282 2644 |
| YMCA Canberra YMCA Canberra Adventure Squad offers vacation care programs where children are encouraged to play and have fun in a safe and stimulating environment. Deakin 02 6242 4040 |
| Disability Trust The Disability Trust is currently running different Vacation Care programs throughout the NSW and the ACT. Participants attending Vacation Care do a combination of centre-based activities and excursions. 12-18 years Canberra City, Queanbeyan, Batemans Bay 1300 797 443 |
NSW |
| Disability Trust The Disability Trust is currently running different Vacation Care programs throughout the NSW and the ACT. Participants attending Vacation Care do a combination of centre-based activities and excursions. 12-18 years Canberra City, Queanbeyan, Batemans Bay 1300 797 443 |
| Active Spot Offering two intensive holidays during the school break, the aim of Active Spot's Intensive Holiday Therapy program is to fast track your child's progress through increasing the intensity of specific therapy, whilst the aim of Active Spots Intensive Trauma-Informed program supports neurological connections for children finding daily life difficult post-trauma. All ages Speech, trauma-related mental and psychological issues Bondi Junction 0414 543913 |
| Allowah Disability Services Our School Holiday Program can be paid for from the core supports budget in your child’s NDIS plan or through private payment. Give us a call to enquire or book – Ph: 02 8877 3400 and ask for Maura Hanney. 2-4 years Genetic or chromosomal disorders, birth trauma, cerebral palsy, head injuries, and conditions acquired after birth Dundas Valley 02 8877 3400 |
| Aussie Kids Adventure Camps Weekend, overnight adventure camps as well as respite and five-day school holiday 'tour camps' (availability subject to COVID restrictions) 7-16 years Autism, mental health, intellectual disabilities Port Macquarie, Newcastle, Coffsharbour 0422 089 635 |
| Autism Community Network ACN support and social skills groups only run during school terms. During school holidays, we provide opportunities for family activities throughout areas where the ACN is established. We will add events here as they become available 18 years & under ASD Beverly Hills, Merrylands, Illawong, West Pennant Hills 02 9543 9036 |
| Bensville Riding School Appropriate for people of all ages with a disability seeking equine therapy. Bensville also runs school holiday camps. All ages All disabilities Bensville 02 4368 2400 |
| Cerebral Palsy Alliance (Hydrotherapy Program) The Cerebral Palsy Alliance's Hydrotherapy programs cater for children aged 1 and up. There are a number of programs available from Active Youth, Learn to Swim, Autism Swim, Preschool Hydrotherapy and more. All programs run out of CPA's Allambie Heights campus. 1+ years Cerebral Palsy, Autism Allambie Heights 1300 888 378 |
| City of Parramatta Free school holiday programs - Summer not yet released. 5-16 years Disability Inclusive Parramatta 1300 617 058 |
| Coast Community Connections Coast Community Connections operates two Vacation Care programs at Gosford and Woy Woy on the Central Coast. . 5-12 years Woy Woy (Peninsula and District), Gosford 02 4341 9333 |
| Coastlink Coastlink's Holiday Options Program operates during school holidays each weekday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (except public holidays). The program gives students with working parents or carers the opportunity to enjoy their school holidays with their friends while they enjoy a wide range of fun activities. Wyong 02 4321 1022 |
| Code Camp Code Camp hosts camps spanning 3D animation, coding, web building and DJ camps for kids of varying ages and abilities. For email enquiries, please use the contact form on the main website. 5-13 years Disability Inclusive Woolloomooloo 1300 26 33 22 |
| Croc Stars Swim School Croc Stars has partnered with Autism Swim to help design and deliver a specialised program for children with ASD's, SPD, and BCDD. Croc Stars also provides a mobile swim service, delivering private lessons at home pools. Program is delivered year-round, excluding Christmas Holidays 1-12 years Autism Berkeley Vale, Woy Woy, & Wyong for Swim Program, Central Coast for a mobile swim. |
| Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre The Vacation Care Program offers a wide variety of exciting and educational activities to keep the children entertained. Our qualified educators provide structured programs that take into account the skills, interest and needs of the children and offer a variety of arts, crafts, cooking, indoor and outdoor play as well as many special excursions outside of the centre. 5-18 years Disability Inclusive Dubbo 02 6883 2300 |
| Early Ed EarlyEd offers a variety of school holiday programs for all members of the family. School holiday programs include groups and intensive individualised sessions for school-aged children. All ages Far North Coast, Mid North Coast, Hastings, Hunter Region, Central Coast, Sydney, South Coast 02 9923 2727 |
| Friendis Children( Ages 7+) with all special needs welcome(especially Autism and Down Syndrome) to our school holiday program. We will train children to access the community safely. 7+ years ASD, Down Syndrome Marayong 0417 854 235 |
| Grace Childrens Therapy Intensive School Holiday Programs: Please contact us to find out when we will be running our programs. 5-12 years ASD Castle Hill 1300 760 779 |
| Growing Early Minds (Western Sydney) - Clever Kids Growing Early Minds offers a range of inclusive, fun, educational group programs and camps for children during school holidays. Our programs are limited to small groups so that every child receives close one-on-one support. 2-12 years Various Blacktown 02 9622 8500 |
| Heal Psychology Child/youth equine therapy sessions, plus school holiday program for horse lovers (special needs inclusive). Will post-school holiday program to Facebook page when available. 4-17 years ASD, behavioural/ emotional/ communication challenges and mental health issues. Capacity will depend on staff availability and the severity of challenges Wombarra 0420990234 |
| Kids First Single-day 3hr 'kids first' workshops for 5-12yrs, as well as school readiness workshops (age 4-5yrs) running over four days (2hr sessions). Sessions focusing on a range of skills development inc. speech, behaviour and fine motor skills development etc… 5-12 years ASD and other disabilities Brookvale 02 9938 5419 |
| Learning Links Learning Links welcomes you to our OOSH and Vacation Care program. Our Centre offers a warm, caring and safe environment with a program that actively supports your child in their learning and development. All ages ADHD, high functioning ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, fine and gross motor delays and speech and language delays Roselands 0456 003 435 |
| Lutanda Disability Camps With three great locations all located near Sydney, Lutanda is the perfect option for a camp that takes into consideration special needs campers. 3-18 years Intellectual disability Various 1300 75 72 76 |
| LuzAllabilities Intensive Holiday Program for children with any difficulties with cognitive, motor coordination, communication and/or social skills. The goal is to create a personalised and integrated program to help your child to improve life and school skills while making new friends and having fun. Naremburn 02 8065 4284 |
| Macarthur Disability Services Ltd. is a program that runs 8am – 4pm (Monday to Friday) during the school holidays). Our program facilitators engage the children in fun, age-appropriate, creative, and recreational & leisure programs that are fully supervised. We have an Aboriginal Community Projects Engagement Officer. 1-7 years Campbelltown 04621 8400 |
| McKeon Swimming School Holiday intensive swim program available to all school-aged children, as well as swim lessons open to all people with disabilities All ages Various Unanderra, Towradgi, Western Suburbs, Woollongong (Unanderra offie: 02 4272 7272, Towradgi office: 02 4285 1666) |
| National Parks NSW National Parks NSW now provides TrailRider, an all-terrain wheelchair free of charge for people of all ages wanting to experience what our national parks have to offer. Whilst the chair is free to hire, it requires two guides to operate and renters will need to bring their own guides. All ages Physical disability Kamay Botany Bay NP, Dorrigo NP, Kosciusko NP 1300 072 757 |
| Nepean Aquatic Centre Private swim lessons for children with special needs held every Sunday between 11:00am- 2:30pm at Napean Aquatic Centre 0.5 - 17 years Various Penrith 0418 278 251 |
| Nereids Special Needs Offer private swim lessons/ swim school for people with disabilities at their home pool. All ages All disabilities Various across Sydney/Greater Sydney area 0415 914 443 |
| North Steyne Surf Life Saving Club From October to March each year, the Ripper Nippers program for children with special needs will run each Sunday from 11:00-12:30 over an 8 week program. See link for details 13 years and under ASD and other disabilities Manly 02 9977 6180 |
| Northcott Campbeltown Dec school holiday program not yet released. Campbelltown 1800 818 286 |
| Northern Beaches Council Catering for school children between 5 and 12 years old, Vacation Care runs Monday-Friday from 7.30am - 6 pm during school holidays and offers exciting excursions, discos, craft and sports days with a difference. Offer several locations and we give extra support to children with special needs so they can join in the fun. 5 & 12 years Disability Inclusive Manly 1300 434 434 |
| Office of Sport (NSW Government) Mainstream sports camps around NSW that would require a support worker if needs were high. Contact each location. 7-12 years Disability Inclusive Various 13 13 02 |
| Participate Australia After school and school holidays activities. 3-17 years Various Croydon 0412 993 705 |
| Quirky Kids The Best of Friends® (BoF) program gives children the knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, show empathy for others, develop and maintain friendships and make good decisions. Woollahra 02 9362-9297 |
| Recreation Sports and Aquatics Club The RSAC is an NDIS Registered organisation providing leisure activities, sports and recreation for peoples with a disability. RSAC also provides holiday programs featuring day trips, holidays and camps for children when funding allows. (https://disabledsportrsac.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/RSAC-Holiday...) All ages All disabilities Bankstown 02 9790 5001 |
| Ripples Boost your child's swimming skills with Ripples Intensive Learn to Swim program. The continuous reinforcement of swimming assists the student to consolidate the skills learnt thus accelerating their development and progression. It's like swimming for half a term in just one week!!! Penrith 02 9638 0999 |
| Riverlink Interchange Inc Children's programs. These supported programs have been running for more than 10 years and provide a safe environment within pre-school sites. 3-10 years Lidcombe, Doonside, Baulkham Hills and Marayong 0423 700 630 |
| Royal Far West Royal Far West provides 4 day, 3 nights health and wellbeing camps created specifically to help families from rural and remote areas access therapeutic services and help children develop important life skills. Due to COVID, rural camps are not operating, but the Manly Windmill camp in Sydney's North will be running as planned. 2-12 years ASD, intellectual disability, developmental or global delay Manly 1800 500 061 |
| Skills 4 Life Skills 4 Life school holiday programs focus on socialisation, community, fun and healthy lifestyle with a range of activities that include the Sargents Challenge Centre, outdoor recreation such as high and low ropes course, bushwalks, swimming, canoeing and other activities such as cooking, crafts and outings to help in the development of life skills. Check out their Facebook page for updates. 8-18 years Blacktown 02 9622 1823 |
| Skills for Kids (Now Early Start Australia) Early Start Australia provide intense intervention in a shared learning or group context during the school holidays. FUN is central to all learning activities. 5+ years Various 02 4739 0267 |
| Sony Camp NSW (Pymble) The children are treated to a camp full of thrilling and exciting adventures and are cared for in either Pymble or Shore’s (Sydney Church of England Grammar School) Boarding Houses, 24 hours a day, by Pymble and Shore students. 5-12 years Pymble 02 9855 7741 |
| Sony Foundation Camp NSW (Riverview) At Saint Ignatius' College Riverview we take great pleasure in holding an annual four-day holiday camp for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. Riverview 0448 450 320 |
| Spectrum Fitness and Wellbeing School holiday boot camp running in 2hr sessions, designed to get kids with autism and other developmental delays active in a safe space. The session includes one sibling, 2 pax max. SOLD OUT for Jan 2021, taking enrolments from December 1st 2020 for the following year. 5-17 years Kellyville Ridge 0417 289 965 |
| Sport NSW Contact each location for support options. Various 13 13 02 |
| St Anthonys Family Care The Vacation Care program offers children a wide range of experiences such as visits to the Sydney Aquarium, IMAX, Symbio Wildlife Park, Taronga Zoo and Museum exhibitions. We also participate in visits to local parks, bushwalking, movies, swimming, ferry days and sports days. Croydon 02 9747 5782 |
| Studio Alessa School Holiday Workshops Smeaton Grange 02 4604 9855 |
| Sunnyfield You don't need to go away to have a great holiday during the school break. Hotshots have everything you need to have loads of fun close to home with all sorts of super cool activities for children aged 6 – 12 and young people aged 12 – 17. all ages 1300 588 688 |
| Surf Life Saving The Sydney Northern Beaches Surf Life Saving Club is hosting a special needs Nippers program free of charge to people of all ages with a disability. The club also runs Special Needs Intensive Camps over the school holidays. All ages All disabilities Northern Beaches 02 8919 2137 |
| Surfing the Spectrum Surf therapy appropriate for school-aged children. Head to their events page to register for a Surf Therapy event near you. 5-18 years Autism Various locations across NSW |
Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is running swim lessons through every school holiday for "children with special needs" 0-18 years Various Sydney Olympic Park 02 9714 7500 |
| The Outlook Riding Academy Equine therapy sessions run through the holidays. If equine therapy is booked out, then children are still welcome to come in for an hour session of groundwork where they spend time with the horses, grooming and working with the horses in whatever capacity they feel comfortable. All ages All disabilities Terrigal 0427189567 |
The program runs from 9am to 3pm in the Penrith and Holroyd areas with pick up/drop off points at Merrylands and Blacktown. 5-17 years Merrylands, Blacktown 1300 266 222 |
| SNAP Waiting on Summer Holiday information. Contact SNAP. 6-18 years Murrook, Wollstonecraft 0448 606 789 |
| Vision Gym Sports Vision Gym Sports is a fun and inclusive gym designed to build up gross motor skills and keep kids active and healthy. They provide an NDIS funded private session for $70 an hour that gives children with a disability time for supported play, as well as free playtime in the afternoons when the gym is quieter. Gym Sports' January school holiday program is open for registrations now! 5-17 years Disability inclusive South Windsor 04577 4887 |
| Youthworks WROK Camps Holiday camp for teenagers who have disabilities with a Christian influence. It is five days filled with friends, laughing, dancing, singing, rock climbing, catapults and heaps more. 1-12 years Blue Mountains 02 8268 3393 |
| Disabled Winter Sports Disabled Winter Sport Australia assists people of all ages with a disability to learn how to ski and snowboard, offering adaptive equipment and volunteer guides. They operate throughout the ski season, including school holidays. To participate, you must register as a member. All ages Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller, Perisher, Thredbo 1300 265 730 |
| Cerebral Palsy Alliance Teens adventure camp, Skill builders Intensive, Survivor Getaway, Intensive learn to swim. 5-25 years Acquired brain injury Allambie Heights, Kippax 1300 888 378 |
| Code It Yourself Camps are a one-day (6 hour) session in the school holidays for young technology enthusiasts. We run a selection of one-day camps in various tech skills including game coding, 3D printing, website creation and Minecraft. To reach out via email, access contact form on the main website. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Various 1300 761 254 |
| Cerebral Palsy Alliance Teens adventure camp, Skill builders Intensive, Survivor Getaway, Intensive learn to swim. 5-25 years Acquired brain injury Allambie Heights, Kippax 1300 888 378 |
| Code It Yourself Camps are a one-day (6 hour) session in the school holidays for young technology enthusiasts. We run a selection of one-day camps in various tech skills including game coding, 3D printing, website creation and Minecraft. To reach out via email, access contact form on the main website. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Various 1300 761 254 |
| Autism Camp Australia Autism Camp Australia is a five-day four-night respite and learning program designed to support families of Autistic people. The camps are designed to provide kids with the opportunity to partake in a ranger of recreational and therapy based activities, as well as give parents respite during the school holidays. 7-14 years ASD levels 1, 2 and 3, under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM V) Byron Bay, Currumundi 02 6684 9304 |
NT |
| Darwin Waterfront Darwin Waterfront is hosting a range of events over the school holidays and the Christmas period. Although not targeted at children with a disability, all events hosted are inclusive of children with disabilities and welcome their families to come down and enjoy what they have to offer. All ages Disability Inclusive Darwin Waterfront Precinct +61 8 8999 5155 |
| Darwin Family Life Darwin Family Life is a local guide for families living in Darwin looking for events and activities to enjoy year-round. Over the Christmas Holiday period, events can be found listed on their website that are inclusive of families and their special needs children. all ages Disability Inclusive Darwin |
QLD |
| Autism Camp Australia Autism Camp Australia is a five day four-night respite and learning program designed to support families of Autistic people. The camps are designed to provide kids with the opportunity to partake in a ranger of recreational and therapy based activities, as well as give parents respite during the school holidays. 7-14 years ASD levels 1, 2 and 3, under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM V) Byron Bay, Currumundi 02 6684 9304 |
| Apex Camps Over 20 Activities 5 - 17 years All disabilities Twin Waters 1300 122 677 |
| Autism Queensland Programs are available to school-aged children with a diagnosis of ASD living in South East Queensland. They are delivered by members of our multidisciplinary team including teachers & teacher aides, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists. 8-17 years ASD Brighton 07 3631 6300 |
| AveGates Based in Brisbane and Toowoomba, the program provides fun and engaging experiences for kids and teens throughout the school holidays. Avegates School Holiday Program activities include relaxed sensory and skill-building activities such as games, sports and arts and crafts. 5-17 years Various Brisbane North, Toowoomba, Redland Bay/Capalaba 1300 135 886 |
| Brisbane City (inclusive and mainstream) Run, jump and fly with acrobatics, gymnastics, teamwork and games. Learn, improve and master skills while making friends! 5-12 years Disability Inclusive Brisbane 410381952 |
| Camp Cooby Be part of something special. Explore the world through a different lens. The moment you arrive at Camp Cooby, you can feel the energy and wonder of this magical location. We then add amazing kids together with our team for a super fun adventure and the energy just surges like a volcano! All disabilities Geham 07 46966244 |
| Carers Link-Camp Ability Camp Ability is a school holiday camp program, for youths with a disability. The 4-day camps are designed to provide a fun, safe holiday camp experience, where nurturing support is provided by our qualified and experienced Lifestyle Supporters, as well as trained volunteers. Camp Ability is our highly successful holiday camp program, for youths with a disability aged 13-25. 13-25 years Memory loss, mild cognitive impairment, early Alzheimer’s, or other dementia Wynnum 07 3901 1165 |
| Carers Link-Camp Gold Coast CAMP ABILITY is a 4-day disability camp held during school holidays and are designed to provide a fun, safe holiday camp experience which focuses on physical and social interaction. 13-25 years Various Wynnum 07 3901 1165 |
| Carinbundi Carinbundi has grown and now offers a range of programs from a number of locations. Carinbundi 07 4158 9600 |
| CFN School holiday centre-based / community programs for children and teenagers. A trip away from home, experience something different and meet new friends. To contact via email, reach out via websites contact form 5-18 years All disabilities Morayfield 07 5432 3966 |
| Day Dream Explorers Day Dream Explorers work with families who have members with a disability to provide the ultimate holiday experience. With their decked out 4WD minibus able to cater for a wide variety of needs, you have the flexibility to plan the holiday of your dreams. Multiple families and book together for a getaway to reduce costs, trips are customisable and flexible to meet your families/individual needs. All ages All disabilities Various 0434 779 017 |
| Disability Support Queensland all ages Various |
| Inclusion Plus Family Support Fun and interactive After School Care programs are held at Currimundi and Nambour Special Schools and are available to teenagers with a disability. Teens Nambour, Currimundi 07 5441 6600 |
| Mindware Psychology School holiday intensive programs available Toowoomba 07 4646 4953 |
| Museum of Brisbane Museum of Brisbane has a jam-packed School Holiday program full of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy! All Activities are inclusive of children with disabilities, although capacity to provide support is limited. 0-13 years Brisbane 07 3339 0800 |
| Pools with Disability Access in Brisbane Find pools with disability access around Brisbane. Brisbane 07 3277 8686 |
| School Camps QLD Book now for SUMMER Holiday Camps! This is a mainstream holiday camp. 6-17 years Thunderbird Park 0432 474 161 |
| Silky Oak Support Services Silky Oak Support Services is a disability service provider proudly operated by two couples out of Brisbane. Over the Christmas season, every day of December Silk Oaks will be delivering a range of exciting activities from fishing, go-karting, movie nights, theme park visits and more. The calendar will be updated monthly and activities will change. Support ratio is 1:1 or 1:2. All ages All disabilities Various |
| Surrey Park Swimming Holiday Learn to Swim or Dive programs are offered at our Aqualink Box Hill facility during all school holidays. Our popular 5-day intensive holiday program is open to all students of all abilities in our preschool, school-age and teen programs. 5+ years Various 03 9898 8876 |
| Tea-Cup Cottage Tea-Cup Cottage provides short and long stay respite for disabled children and adults, giving them the opportunity to play, learn and relax away from their usual routine. Care respite locations are open 24/7. All ages Various Birkdale, Capalaba 1800 832 287 |
| Tag 5 Camps Camps are held at a number of established campsites throughout South East Queensland. All our campsites have wheelchair access. Various 07 3216 8903 |
| Wesley Mission The Gold Coast Youth Hubs offer a range of free school holiday activities for young people aged 12-17 years. 12-17 years 1300 673 140 |
| What Works OT Sense rugby and other school readiness programs 2+ years ASD, Other Brisbane |
| YMCA Brisbane Vacation Care is offered at various locations. Bowen Hills, Victoria Point, Jamboree Heights, Acacia Ridge, Warwick 07 3253 1700 |
“Hi, just wanted to to let you know that Cara is not the only provider in south Australia that provides camps for children with disabilities. Here at we have an . It is very rare to find this service so that's why we have started our own program (i used to run the camps program at cara- i believe its cased now) Our details are admin@jumpinso.com kelsey:0411442998 www.jumpinso.com”
SA |
| Adelaide North Special School YMCA Adelaide North OSHC provides Vacation Care (school holiday care) for children aged 5 to 17 years with intellectual disabilities. We offer a wide range of supervised, fun-filled activities on site, as well as excursions and incursions between 8, am and 6pm during school holidays. 5-17 years Intellectual Disabilities, ASD Para West 08 82002500 |
| Autism SA Autism SA offers eight weeks of school holiday programs over the year. Families registered for short term accommodation services are offered the opportunity to make selections from the scheduled activities prior to the school holiday period. Each day's programmed activities cater for up to eight children per activity. Staffing ratios are individually assessed and usually range from 1 Staff: 1 child, to 1 staff: 4 children depending on the activity and needs of the children. 5-12 years ASD Netley 1300 288 476 |
| Home Fresh Home Fresh Cooking is proud to host NDIS/Special Needs Cooking Classes for adults and children! 5+ years Various Golden Grove and other locations 0466 158 453 |
| Inclusive Directions Therapies and support for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Global Developmental Delay (GDD), intellectual disabilities and challenging behaviours. ASD Melrose Park, Port Pirie, Salisbury 1800 236 762 |
| Kids in Adelaide Spring has sprung and we love this time of year! There are LOADS of activities, events, things to do and places to see. And with lots of these either free or low cost, there is something for every kid and every budget! Make sure you book in quickly because they fill up fast! all ages Disability Inclusive Adelaide |
| Novita Children's Services (Elizabeth) Novita School Holiday groups are run by our qualified therapists and allow your kids to continue their therapy whilst enjoying new experiences, with new friends in a fun and supportive environment. 5-12 years Various Elizabeth, Parafield Gardens, St Marys, Regency Park 1300 668 482 |
| United Abilities Contact us for our school holidays options All ages Monarto 0402 721 221 |
| Woodhouse Activity Centre Woodside Activity Centre offers experience-based group accommodation offering day camps, day adventures, overnight camping adventures and more to kids and families. Woodside is inclusive of children with special needs, such as ASD. For children requiring one on one support, families are welcome to bring along support workers and carers. 3-15 years ASD, children with special needs Piccadilly 08 8833 9333 |
| Xlent Disability Services For more information on the holiday programs please contact Xlent (08) 8165 2023 or email at info@xlent.org.au 8+ years Kent Town 08 8165 2023 |
| Cara Program for campers with complex disabilities. Activities on camp are accessible and developmentally-appropriate and campers are encouraged to experience as many activities as possible, however, participation is always the choice of the camper. 18 years & under All disabilities Evanston, South Australia 08 8347 4588 |
| Jump In Support Options inclusive camps program for adults and children with complex disabilities. All disabilities Hindmarsh, Woodville South Australia |
TAS |
| Ability First Australia Provide services that improve the quality of life to over 6,000 children and adults living with a disability, as well as providing support to their families. All ages Various Newstead 03 6345 7333 |
| Keep The Beat KEEP THE BEAT provides high energy drumming workshops for kids during school holidays. Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, Burnie, Somerset, Kingston, Ulverstone, George Town 03 9826 0330 |
| Li-Ve Tasmania School holiday support for children living with disability and their siblings. The Holiday Zone offers fun, inclusion-focused activities for children living with disability and activities and peer support for siblings of children living with a disability. Dates to be released. East Launceston, Moonah 03 6227 5400 |
| Mosaic Tasmania School-aged children including Camps, School Holiday Activities, After School Options and Social Time Programs. Contact for info. Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, Burnie, Somerset, Kingston, Ulverstone, George Town 03 6244 9444 |
| Parkside Foundation Fun and creative activities for young people during holiday periods. A chance to mix with their peers and renew, maintain or develop new friendships. Contact for info. Lindisfarne 03 6243 6044 |
VIC |
| After The Bell We cater for children 5-12 years of age (mainstream programs) and 5-15years (Specialist). Our program operates from various locations in Victoria. Our programs are filled with fun and exciting activities each school holiday periods, with amazing inhouse, incursions and excursions. We ensure all our children have fun each day in a safe, engaging and friendly environment. 5+ years All disabilities Various locations 03 9758 6744 |
| Australian Camps Association People Outdoors run numerous programs throughout the state, varying from day activities through to five-day camps. Please use the website to find out more about the programs. Alternatively, you can contact the People Outdoors office on 03 9863 6824. 6-18 years Physical or intellectual disabilities Hawthorn Preston 03 9863 6824 |
| Bare Foot Therapists Barefoot Therapists hosts an extensive variety of programs over the school holidays, from recreation and social groups to equine therapy, cooking groups, bike riding and rural therapy. Due to Covid, programs are not running during 2020, however, a special program is being finalised for 2021. Jump onto their Facebook page to stay updated. 5-17 years Various Main Ridge 03 59811120 |
| BK’s Gymnastics Bayside (gymnastics camps) Appropriate for Primary School aged children. Children are divided into age/skill-based groups to learn how to tumble, flip, swing and balance or build on existing gym skills. 4+ years Disability Inclusive Noble Park 03 9077 5104 |
| Building Blocks Therapy Pty Ltd We understand that for some families regular therapy during the term is very difficult to commit to and due to the long waiting lists we often can’t offer family regular sessions. Book in for an intensive burst of therapy during the school holiday. 4-18 years Various South Morang Victoria 03 9404 0338 |
| Carers Quality Community Services CQCS is running a five-day school holiday program, including zoo and aquarium visits, theme park visits and more. Short term, supported accommodation is also available. Call or email for more information 5-17 years All disabilities Various 04 0259 7443 |
| CareChoice Our school holiday activities are designed so children and families can access a wide range of fun and inclusive activities right across Melbourne. Our supported activities are especially suited to children who may have special needs or complex behaviours and find it difficult to participate in group holiday programs. All ages Various Melbourne, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula and key regions in Victoria 1300 737 942 |
| Deaf Children Australia Circus Oz (Auslan) Deaf Melbourne 1800 645 916 |
| Disability Sport and Recreation DSR kids are running a summer camp (and winter camp!) for young people with a disability located at the YMCA Camp in Manyung. At the camp, participants will have the opportunity to make friends, increase their independence, learn new skills and improve wellbeing. Expressions of interest for 2021 are open now. Dates TBC 7-17 years All disabilities Mt Eliza 03 9473 0158 |
| Family Care Family Care offers a wide range of assisted programs and recreational activities for children and young people with a disability. Some of the programs include School holiday activities, a camp program and social groups for young people. 4+ years Various Shepparton 03 5823 7041 |
| Gateways Support Services Inc This is an introductory holiday program for young primary school children. It provides a range of fun indoor and outdoor activities in the comfort and safety of the Greenville Kindergarten in Grovedale 5+ years ASD, ID and other disabilities Geelong West 03 5221 2984 |
| Giving Tree Giving Tree is an all-inclusive holiday program for children between the ages of 3-6. The program will be for children with and without disabilities, to promote inclusion from a young age and foster a positive environment. Our programs focus on providing individual support to each participant, as we tailor our program to be accessible so that everyone has a chance to join in if they wish. Our participants, also known as “Explorers”, are encouraged to build social connections in a safe environment, through play. We explore many different types of activities within our program, such as sensory play, sport, interesting and stimulating arts and craft activities, mindfulness, song and dance and so much more. 3-6 years All disabilities St Kilda Community Centre 0421 345 979 |
| HIFA School holiday program on multiple days in the school holidays, strive to meet a range of interests by providing a variety of activities. Days are 5-8hrs in length. The program runs Jan-June. 2021 program not yet released. 5-17 years High Functioning Autism attending mainstream schools Geelong |
| I Can Camps (Autism Camps) I Can Camps are for teenagers and young adults who want to empower themselves to say 'I can' and develop a social network of other young people on the spectrum. 12-15 years ASD Malmsbury, South West Victoria |
| Irabina Autism Services - Multi Sports A fun and engaging program using sports as a medium for teaching gross motor skills, coordination and social communication skills. Children will engage in a range of sports activities which target core strength, motor planning, spatial and body awareness, listening, waiting and social skills. ASD Baywater, Pakenham, Bundoora VIC 03 9720 1118 |
| Interchage Loddon Mallee Region Inc. Loddon-Mallee Region inc. is a registered NDIS support provider with over 30yrs experience in providing social, recreational, community and home support to individuals with a disability. In addition to hosting school holiday programs to students of their special needs schools, they also host a program for students not attending their schools. 4-12 years Various Bendigo 03 5441 1599 |
| Irabina Autism Services - Tennis A fun and recreational full-day program suitable for primary school-aged children attending mainstream schooling and their siblings (also in mainstream schooling). Trip to the tennis club during the day plus fun activities at Irabina. Activities at Irabina will include board games, art and craft, lego, drama and sports activities. Included in the cost of this program is the transport to and from the tennis club, and lunch. 2-4 years ASD Baywater, Pakenham, Bundoora VIC 03 9720 1118 |
| Kamaruka Allow boys another opportunity to develop skills such as camping, hiking, bush survival, cooking, surfing, and snorkelling. Offer the opportunity for social interaction, community sharing and the development of interpersonal skills. Contact for info. 8-15 years approx ADHD South Yarra 03 9826 0330 |
| Latrobe City Council Our HOP program provides opportunities for children with a disability to enjoy social and recreational experiences. Dates not yet released. 5-12 years Various 03 5133 0700 |
| Leisure Networks A huge range of activities available from football to disco. Includes weekends away, social Saturdays and School holiday activities. All ages Various 03 5222 3911 |
| Mansfield Autism Statewide Services The focus is on a fun holiday in a structured and supportive environment. Staffing levels during these placements are matched with the needs of each individual. The School holiday program includes community access designed to explore the beautiful natural environment of Mansfield, health and well-being activities and healthy eating and nutrition. ASD Mansfield 03 5775 2876 |
| Maroondah City Council Croydon, Croydon South 03 9298 4598 |
| Melbourne Child Development Social skills programs all ages Disability Inclusive Box Hill 03 9890 1062 |
| Moreland City Council Council operates a school holiday program for primary school children aged between 5 and 12 years old whose parents live, work or study in Moreland. 5-12 years Brunswick East, Brunswick North, Pascoe Vale Various |
| Mpower Inc. Kids and Teens in the Community school holiday program The program runs every school holidays during the year and for 3 weeks in January. Program activities include zoo and farm visits, beach days, bowling, movies and creative crafts. Participants must be attending school. 0-17 years Warrnambool 03 5561 8111 |
| Mpower Inc. Fully supported weekends away. Hiking in the beautiful Grampians, helping the group learn about budgeting and paying for food, preparing and creating all meals, completing activities of daily living with the support that promotes independence and have a fun, social and relaxing experience. 0-18 years Warrnambool 03 5561 8112 |
| Pinarc Disability Support Inc We provide recreational and social activities for children and teenagers during the school holidays. These may include swimming, cooking and day trips. Enquire. 7-18 years Bakery Hill 03 5329 1398 |
| Portsea MAD camp Participants are matched in age, friendship groups or particular interests. All ages Portsea 03 5984 2333 |
| Saddle On Riding School in Geelong Geelong 03 5282 4017 |
| Spectrum Speech School Holiday Workshops, Pirate Adventure, Girl Talk, Lego Connect 6-11 years Ashwood, Moonee Ponds 03 9885 0504 |
| Statewide Autistic Services Inc SASI hosts two camps per year for people with higher and lower support needs -respectively. Each camp runs for three days and two nights and are usually housed in holiday homes. Most participants are aged 15 and above. 15+ years ASD Frankston 03 9773 6044 |
| Swim 4 All Swim 4 Life offers private and group lessons to children with special needs all year round and during school holidays, except for the Christmas holidays. Luckily this year, both the Werribee and Murrumbeena aquatic centres will be opening from the 4th of January 2021. Swim4All provides both group and private lessons, both of which run on a weekly basis. 3 - 12 years Various Werribee, Murrumbeena 03 9742 5000 |
| Yarracity Council From art galleries of all kinds to parks, the Yarra River and the historic Abbotsford Convent, there is something for everyone. Abbotsford, Fitzroy, Richmond 03 9205 5555 |
| YMCA YMCA operates holiday escapes across Victoria, catering to people of all abilities. All ages Box Hill 03 8397 3111 |
| Ymca Geelong Inc. YMCA Geelong offers a fun-filled and exciting School Holiday Program available to all school-aged children. Our fully accredited School Holiday program runs every school holidays from 7:30 am – 6:00 pm. Extra support is available - see rates. 5-18 years Newtown 03 5223 2714 |
| YMCA Victoria (various) YMCA Whittlesea offers a school holiday program for primary school-aged children with additional support requirements, children 8-12 with a mild-moderate disability, teens with additional support requirements. Various 03 8371 0500 |
| Ymca Whittlesea YMCA Whittlesea offers a school holiday program for primary school-aged children with additional support requirements. The holiday program includes incursions and excursions, leisure activities, daily living activities, opportunity to develop skills, interact socially and meet personal challenges. WhiSKHA Child give participants the opportunity to have fun, achieve goals and access the community in a safe and supportive environment. 8+ years South Morang 03 9407 6200 |
WA |
| Autism Alliance School holiday programs offer parents and carers some time off each day while allowing the children to learn vital social skills, explore new subjects and interact naturally. These holidays we are offering several themes including science, art, music, trains and much more! 3-16 years ASD and other disabilities Malaga 08 9249 2063 |
These small intensive groups are led by our experienced Therapy Team. Our groups offer an opportunity for children to review and consolidate learnt skills, and to develop new skills under the guidance of Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists. For respite and other school holiday programs see the following links: School Holiday Group, Respite 0-7 years ASD Shenton Park, East Fremantle, Joondalup, Midland, Gosnells 08 9489 8900 |
| Spectrum Space (Autism West) Caters to kids and young adults on the spectrum between the ages of 5 -18 years of age, tailoring support to Low, Moderate and High Needs. This is a great introduction to our social groups and our holistic strengths-based approach. All ages ASD Freemantle 08 9431 2111 |
| Edmund Rice Edmund Rice Camps for Kids WA Inc (ERCKWA) is a non-profit community-based organisation that serves the needs of children aged 7–16 and their families 7-16 years Bindoon 041 444 1844 |
| Family Support Wa Inc. The Family Support WA School Holiday Program is available to young, independent individuals who are suited to a 3-to-1 care ratio and are looking for some fun activities to join in with over school holidays. 5-17 years Disability Inclusive Wanneroo 08 9206 3400 |
| Helping Minds Australia We have a professional and compassionate team of staff who provide quality, confidential support and services to children, youth, adults and families who are caring for someone with a mental illness or individuals who affected by a mental illness. Mental Illness Perth 08 9427 7100 |
| Kids' Camps Inc Cahoots create inclusive opportunities for children and young people living with disability and others that face exceptional challenges to develop friendships, skills and confidence. Dec camps not yet released. 5+ years Osborne Park 1300 103 880 |
| KZ Speech The structure of the program is that the children rotate around nine stations, for 20 minutes at each station working one to one with a Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist or therapy assistant. They may do this either individually or in a pair (depending on the child's mix of learning needs and social language use needs at each station). 2-12 years Various Salter Point 08 9450 6939 |
| Phase Australia As a group supported program there is considerable flexibility and most activities can be accessed on any day during the school holidays. Contact for info. Joonadalup 0418 750 524 |
| Senses Australia Senses Australia’s offers a range of services available over the school holidays, from workshops, events and support groups to respite and support for siblings! 24 years & under WA 0421 339 653 |
| Surf Heros Surf Heros hosts free surf events and private lessons (for a fee) for children with autism. See their Facebook page for event updates, or contact them directly to book a private lesson. 5+ years Autism Perth |
| WA Cricket Association (WACA) During the school holidays, the Perth Scorchers are hosting a school holiday program that is inclusive of children of all abilities, including those with a disability. Outside of school holidays, various WACA clubs support cricket programs for children and adults with a disability. For more info on the Perth Scorchers. 4+ years Various 08 9265 7222 |
| Wa Disabled Sports Association Calendar of WADSA’s CAN Xperiences and Events may still have places available for individuals with a disability or for groups who cater to individuals with a disability to register. East Victoria Park 08 9470 1442 |
| Workpower We take full advantage of the great weather with plenty of fun in the sun and in nature. Outdoor laser tag, Water park and playground trips, Gymnastic and trampolining fun, Wildlife and nature day out 7 - 17 years Perth 1800 610 665 |
Sensory Movies*
A sensory-friendly movie session usually involves cinemas turning the volume down and leaving the lights up and audience members are free to get out of their seats and move around the theatre. Parents don't need to feel stressed about keeping their child contained and can feel comforted in knowing that the other parents in the cinema know exactly what their situation is.
Where can you find a Sensory Friendly Screening? We have collected a few below. Let us know of any we can add.
* Check current availability due to COVID
| Event Cinemas | National |
| Village Cinemas | National |
| Hoyts Cinemas | National - Check by location |
| Sensory Souls | National - 35 locations across Australia |
| Ritz Cinemas | NSW - Randwick |
| Dendy | NSW - Newtown, Sydney, QLD- Coorparoo, Portside |
| Wallis Cinemas | SA - Mitcham, Mt Barker, Noarlunga, Piccadilly, Mildura |
| Grand Cinemas | WA - Armadale, Bunbury, Currambine, Cygnet, Joondalup, Warwick |
| Classic Cinema | VIC - Elsternwick |
| Cameo Cinema | VIC - Belgrave |
| Lido Cinema | VIC - Hawthorn |
| Regent Cinema | VIC - Ballarat |
Creative Kids Voucher (NSW)
The NSW Government is helping kids get creative with the new Creative Kids program.
Parents, guardians and carers can apply for a voucher with a value of up to $100 per calendar year for each student aged 4.5 to 18 years old enrolled in school.
The voucher may be used with a registered activity provider for registration, participation and tuition costs for creative arts, speech, drama, dance, digital design, coding, and music lessons and activities.
The voucher can be used at any time during the calendar year it was issued.
COVID-19 brought updates to the voucher's use as follows:
- Cultural and creative activities that support the 2020 school curriculum,
- Activities and programs delivered online, and
- Creative supplies, equipment and materials through approved Creative Kids providers.
Find Creative Kids Registered Providers*
*to find online options select the "Only show online programs" option
