Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Programs of Support (PoS) is the newest approach to group-based services across a wide range of service types. Focused on ‘specific outcomes’, these time-limited programs can be funded from both Core and Capacity Building.

The purpose of a Program of Support is to help participants achieve specific goals like living independently, making friends, or building work skills.

At Lifeskills, every activity falls into one of seven key PoS categories, each with its own outcomes and benefits to assist participants in achieving their goals. Participants can use their NDIS funding to choose from a variety of activities in the following categories:

Independent Living Skills

Health, Fitness & Well-being

Communication & Connection

Recreation & Leisure

Education

Creative Options

Work Readiness

When you choose to engage in a PoS, you receive a Service Schedule created for the entire program (up to six months), which is agreed upon by you and us (Lifeskills). This schedule sits within the overarching Service Agreement.

This means that you agree to attend the entire program length and as such will be invoiced, even if you are absent for some sessions (per the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26).

While PoS officially runs for six months, you are welcome to make changes to your timetable at any time (subject to availability).

If you wish to cancel your support during PoS, you are simply required to provide two weeks’ notice, as per your Service Agreement.

You can view the current timetables for Bundoora and Bendigo here.

Group-based support provides opportunities to connect with peers, learn new skills, and practice independence in a supportive environment. Through shared experiences, participants gain confidence, develop friendships, and strengthen their ability to participate in the wider community.

Yes. Every activity at Latrobe Lifeskills is designed with flexibility to align with each participant’s NDIS goals. The experienced and skilled Participant Support Workers adapt activities to ensure they meet individual needs, whether that’s building communication, improving daily living skills, or enjoying social participation.

Latrobe Lifeskills operates in both Bundoora and Bendigo. Each location has its own unique set of activities, but all are designed to promote learning, creativity, and social connection.

While primarily based at La Trobe University in Bundoora and Bendigo, Latrobe Lifeskills also utilises facilities and services in the community to promote inclusion and to help participants grow their independence.

Group-based supports are usually funded under:

Core Supports – Assistance with Social and Community Participation

Capacity Building – Increased Social and Community Participation

If your NDIS plan includes funding for social and community participation or capacity building, it can usually be used for group activities.

Most activities are fully covered by NDIS funding. In some cases, there may be a small Out-of-Pocket Activity Costs for items not covered by the NDIS, such as art materials, cooking ingredients, tickets to events, or personal purchases. We always let participants, carers and families know in advance.

No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to discuss your goals and how we can support you.

We also work with Support Coordinators, Teachers, Support Workers, Local Area Coordinators, parents and advocates.

Simply send us an email via [email protected] or call us on 03 9479 1474 to tell us about the support you’re after, your goals and support needs. we’ll then arrange a time for you to come in for a meeting and tour so you can become familiar with the environment and meet staff members and participants.

From there, you will need to complete two forms (Application for Supports and Medical Information Form) and return them to us. You are also welcome to share with us copies of your NDIS Plan, allied health reports, and any other documents that will help us to understand where you’re at and what you’re looking for.

With this information, we conduct a thorough risk assessment to ensure that we are potentially the right service for you and can provide the kind of support you want and need.

Please note: Completion of the enrolment forms does not guarantee enrolment.

Yes. We offer trial activities (on campus only) so participants can experience an activity, meet other participants, and decide if it’s the right fit before making an ongoing commitment.

Established in 1998, Latrobe Lifeskills’ focus is on meaningful engagement and creating a welcoming environment where participants feel respected, valued, and empowered. We are the only disability service in Australia based at a university, meaning we have unique access to facilities and enjoy an atmosphere where our mission to provide opportunities for growth, education and connection remains our top priority.

Our strong partnerships with La Trobe University and other organisations in Bundoora and Bendigo also open up opportunities beyond the classroom.

We encourage participants to make choices, take on responsibilities, and celebrate achievements. Activities are designed to foster independence while ensuring every person feels included and supported.

The list of benefits of attending Latrobe Lifeskills are nearly as long as our list of activities! Here are just some of the reason why participants, their families and supporters choose Latrobe Lifeskills:

We Have the Experience

Group based disability support is what we’ve been doing since 19988. We have experience and knowledge that we apply every day in our support of NDIS participants so that they can get the most out of their time at Latrobe Lifeskills.

At Latrobe Lifeskills, our staff bring a remarkable blend of professional experience, creative talents and genuine dedication to disability support. From former gardeners to practicing musicians, each team member contributes unique skills that enrich our community and reflect their passion for supporting people to thrive and achieve their goals.

Our Groups are Small

For most activities and support, we aim for a one staff member to three participants ratio (1:3). This allows participants to socialise and build friendships, while also receiving the support they need.

With this in mind, activities can range from one staff member to two participants (1:2) to one staff member to five participants (1:5). It all depends on the type of activity and the support needs of the group.

Guest Speakers

Each year, we invite an array of guest speakers to meet with participants and talk on a range of topics like, voting, fire safety, advocacy, nutrition & health, water safety and much more!

Participants in Bundoora and Bendigo enjoy these sessions as part of their support and do not face any extra charges for this service.

Latrobe Lifeskills feels this is one of the ways that we can delivery on our mission to provide growth, education and connection to all of the NDIS participants we support.

Unique experiences

How does sitting in a police helicopter flight simulator? Or having a behind the scenes look at the Public Order Response Team (PORT)? This is just some of what participants have experienced as part of the Latrobe Lifeskills x Whittlesea Police Academy

Established in 2022, Latrobe Lifeskills has been there since the beginning as part of the pilot program, which has now gone state-wide!

The academy continues to this day with bi-monthly experiences and connecitons with local police officers.

Check out our special day with the Water Police, captured by Network Ten.

A typical day might include a morning activity such as cooking, sport, or art, followed by a shared lunch, and then an afternoon outing or creative session. Each day is structured but flexible, with opportunities for both skill-building and relaxation.

Absolutely! We encourage consistency and continuity, but we don’t want participants staying in activities they’re not enjoying! Participants can approach a Lifeskills manager at any time to enquiry about other activities that are available for them to try.