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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
Hear from our community
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
Building confidence through real-world experiences
Supported community events
Genuine friendships
Increased confidence
Social independence
Community participation
Safe and welcoming environment
Participant Journey
Find the community that’s right for you
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
Become part of Cockatoos, Echidnas or selected Mixed Events.
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.
Events Preview
Every event is a chance to connect From bowling and trivia nights to gaming, sport, festivals and
community outings, every event is designed to help participants build confidence while sharing experiences with others.
See the community in action
Follow along and see the real energy of MTM events — reels, moments and everyday stories from our community.
Frequestly Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Mates That Matter, an NDIS friendly men’s social group in Sydney.
Is MTM a registered NDIS provider?
No. Mates That Matter is not a registered provider.
Is MTM different to a traditional support provider?
Yes! Mates That Matter is unique in the fact that we’re not traditionally focused. Normally in a support worker to client scenario the focus is on the creation of a friendship between those two. At MTM the focus is on the strong development of member to member mateship.
Do I need to be an MTM member to attend events
Yes. For security reasons to access our Two Week Free Trial you will need to become a member. But this doesn’t mean you’re locked into our service! After your trial, as an NDIS participant or not, you can easily opt out of your membership.
How do I know if I or someone I know is suited for MTM from a capacity standpoint?
We recommend our program to males with a high capacity for independence.
Do I have to be approved to be a part of MTM?
Yes, for both the safety of our other members and to ensure we are the community for you all new members go through an introduction & eligibility zoom before they can come to events.
Ready to start your journey?
Whether you’re a participant, parent, carer or support coordinator, we’re here to help you find the right community and take the next step towards greater confidence, connection and independence.
