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Sydney • Adults 18+ • NDIS & Self-Funded
Real Mates,
Not another program.
Mates That Matter is a Sydney-wide social community for adults with hidden disability. People who can get themselves around, hold a conversation, and are ready for genuine friendships. Ten-plus events a week, seven days, all across Sydney.
Is Mates That Matter right for you?
- You're 18 or over
- You can travel independently, or you're close to it
- You can hold a two-way conversation
- Not suited to traditional disability programs
- You want real friendships, not scheduled appointments
- You actually want to be there, not just being sent
The problem was never you. It was the room.
Vetted for genuine peers.
10+ events per week.
Mates who stick around.
Every social group in Sydney takes everyone who applies. On paper that sounds like the right thing to do. In practice, it’s the reason the room never feels right, and why you’re not making real friends.
We do it differently. It’s the most important thing about us. Everyone who applies to MTM is assessed for independence before they’re accepted. We turn people away every week for not meeting the criteria. That’s not a flaw in how we run things: it’s the whole point.
We say no on purpose. It’s the only way we can promise you genuine peers.
Find your people
Men’s, women’s, and everyone together
Cockatoos
Live sport, gaming, bushwalks, bowling, road trips, and a lot of sitting around talking rubbish. The original MTM community.
Echidnas
Creative workshops, café catch-ups, festivals, wellness and community outings. Launched in 2026 and growing fast.
Mixed Events
Bigger occasions where both communities come together. Festivals, classic MTM events and special celebrations.
Creating opportunities that make a difference
What mates and families actually say
Really cannot fathom how rewarding the experience was here. I had the most fun meeting new people and showing how much little conversations can go such a long way. I made everlasting memories and learned new skills that I will definitely take into the future. Read more
My daughter recently began participating in activities with this group and her confidence has increased exponentially. She really identifies with a similar cohort and has already started to think she can make friends she can do things with. The facilitators are really supportive and encourage independence.
MTM always has fun events, and I have always been welcomed by the group. The group's cultural diversity has made me understand the different backgrounds of men in the group and learn how to support one another. Read more
Why Choose MTM
What a week at MTM actually looks like
10+ events every week
Seven days, all across Sydney
Genuine peers
Men's, women's and mixed
Hosts at every event
Connected between events
Participant Journey
From first call to first event
Book A Free Call
Get to know the team! Thirty relaxed minutes, no pitch.
We Check The Fit
We make sure you're in the right place, and give you options if you're not.
Start Attending
Sign-up is quick, easy and free. Start attending events straight away!
Find Your People
Turn up regularly, meet mates, and grow at your own pace. |
Enquire
Tell us about your goals and what you're looking for
Check Suitability
We'll help find the community that's the best fit for you.
Join the Community
Become part of Cockatoos, Echidnas or selected Mixed Events.
Build Confidence
Take part in regular events, make friends and continue growing at your own pace.
Unforgettable Events
While other programs are emailing you a PDF and a waitlist date, we’re running events. Here’s what actually happened across Sydney recently…
See It For Yourself
Reels, moments, and everyday stories from MTM events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about joining Mates That Matter.
Who is MTM for?
Adults 18 and over with a hidden disability who can travel independently or close to it, hold a two-way conversation, and genuinely want to be there. We assess everyone before they attend, and we do turn people away.
Can I use NDIS funding?
Yes. MTM events can be funded through Core (Group Activities) and Capacity Building (Individual Skill Development). We’re not a registered provider, so we work with self-managed and plan-managed participants.
Can I join if I'm not on the NDIS?
Yes. A lot of people who fit MTM have no NDIS funding at all. We’ll explain how it works on your discovery call.
How is MTM different from other programs?
In other programs, or with a support worker, the relationship is between you and the person being paid to be there. At MTM, the friendships are between mates. Our Hosts open the door, rather than being the connection themselves.
What happens at my first event?
We’ll tell you exactly what’s on and what to expect. If you’re NDIS-funded, you’ll be paired with a Welcome Mate who meets you at the door and introduces you to someone with similar interests, so you’re never standing in a corner working out what to do.
Ready to start your journey?
Whether you’re looking for yourself, for your son or daughter, or for someone you represent, we’ll be straight with you about whether MTM is the right fit, and point you somewhere better if it isn’t.
