Katie

At What Ability, we specialise in 1:1 community access and 1:1 STA (Camp), what we call overnight camps. In fact, throughout 2023 we hosted a total of 99 camps across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia. These ran across the whole year and featured some epic cooking classes, DJ discos and jetski days during the warmer months.

Our What Ability camps provide participants with 1:1 support in a relaxed, group environment for a stay between 2 days and 1 night, up to 7 days and 6 nights away from home.

Our camps provide a fun and safe environment that promotes: 

• Social interaction
• Skill development
• Community engagement

So what does a What Ability camp look like and what are the benefits for you? 

Participate in Fun Activities

When we say ‘camps,’ we’re not talking about tents in the wilderness—we’re talking about cosy Airbnbs across the country that serve as the perfect backdrop for our overnight adventures.

These Airbnbs may have heated pools, firepits, miniature ponies, trampolines, spacious kitchens, giant swings, BBQ’s and so much more!

Camps are filled with fun activities like jet-skiing, beach days, bushwalks, caring for and feeding animals, water slides, cooking meals and baking, campfires and roasting marshmallows, family style dinners and movie nights.

Each camp is tailored to the season, ensuring that activities are not only enjoyable but also safe and suited to the weather. Whether it’s summer jetski days, day trips to the local theme park or cosy winter campfires, there’s always something for everyone and all activities are included in your STA fee. If you’re interested in joining one of our camps, please contact our Camps Team for a quote.

Forming New Friendships

At camp, our participants are able to build meaningful friendships and develop independence through fun-filled social opportunities.

“There is one particular participant that Emily and he go to camp at the same time because she absolutely loves spending time with him, and for her that’s one of her most cherished friendships.” – Emily’s Mum

Whether it’s teaming up for a group activity, sharing stories around the campfire, or working together to prepare or clean up for lunch, these moments help participants connect with others, boost their confidence, and create lasting memories. The supportive environment encourages each participant to step out of their comfort zone, try new things, and discover their own strengths—all while having a blast with new friends!

Develop Life Skills

Camps give participants a safe place, where they can relax, be themselves and grow as individuals. Time away from home is such an integral part of growing up, not just for the participant but also for their families. This time away allows participants to really thrive in a new environment and build on the skills they are looking to develop.

Activities that help facilitate this can be anything from; grocery shopping, cooking meals for the group, household tasks and self care. By developing these skills in a new environment, we’ve had feedback that our participants have grown their confidence and then apply it to their everyday living.

Respite and Renewal

When our participants go away to an overnight camp, it gives their parents or caregivers a much-needed chance to rest and recharge. This break provides time to focus on personal needs, spend time with other family members, or simply relax, knowing their loved one is in a safe and supportive environment.

“Another amazing camp during the most perfect time. I was able to finish my Christmas shopping and spend some 1:1 time with the other kids who don’t normally get much time with me. I am just in so much awe of all of these amazing beautiful people. The love and support shown to my Hayden from all just makes me so happy that he has people like them in his life.” – Hayden’s Mum

It’s not just a time of respite; it is an opportunity for parents to gradually give their child independence, allowing them to explore new experiences, develop confidence and build new skills in a supportive environment.

If you’re keen to learn more about our camps, visit our website to see our upcoming dates or call our support team.