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D Connect was born out of a story we kept hearing across the South West.
People with disability, their families, and support networks told us how hard it was to find clear, reliable information about what was happening in their communities. They shared that events were often advertised in ways that were hard to access, accessibility information was missing or unclear, and even when activities were available, it was hard to know if a space would truly feel welcoming and inclusive.
D Connect exists to change that.
Run by Advocacy WA, D Connect is a community led network focused on sharing information, building connection, and supporting real action to remove barriers to participation. It is built on lived experience, peer leadership, and the belief that inclusive communities are created side by side.
There is no single way to be part of D Connect. You can connect in the way that suits you, your interests, and your capacity.
Whether you want to stay informed, meet others in your local area, support community change, or step into a leadership role, there is a place for you here.
The D Connect online mailing list is one of the easiest ways to stay connected with what is happening across the South West.
This shared online space brings together people with disability, families, carers, community groups, businesses, and event organisers who care about inclusion and access. Members share information about local events, workshops, training opportunities, peer support groups, and inclusive community initiatives.
You can post updates, ask questions, share opportunities, or simply read along and stay informed. You also get to choose how often you receive emails, from individual messages to a daily digest or announcements only.
Join the D Connect South West online mailing list here:
👉 https://d-connect.groups.io/g/southwest
D Connect Local peer support groups are relaxed, welcoming spaces for people with disability and their support networks to connect with others in their community.
These groups are about building confidence, sharing experiences, and feeling less alone. They are not formal programs or therapy sessions. There is no pressure to speak or participate in a certain way. You are welcome to listen, join conversations, or simply be present.
Each group reflects the needs and interests of the local community. Some focus on social connection, others on community access, local events, or issues that matter to the people attending.
You can view upcoming peer support group sessions and register to attend here:
👉 https://collections.humanitix.com/d-connect
D Connect Circle groups are community led groups that align with D Connect values and are supported by Advocacy WA.
These groups are often started by community members around shared interests, identities, or goals. Advocacy WA supports Circle groups with guidance, training, resources, and connection to the wider D Connect network, while the group itself remains locally driven.
Circle groups might focus on creative activities, social connection, identity based spaces, or supporting people to take part in community life. Each Circle group looks different, because it is shaped by the people involved.
If you are part of a group or have an idea for one and would like support to grow it in an inclusive and sustainable way, a D Connect Circle group may be right for you.
You can view upcoming circle group sessions and register to attend here:
👉 https://collections.humanitix.com/d-connect
Community Mentors play an important role in helping D Connect groups and projects thrive across the South West.
Mentoring is about walking alongside others, supporting confidence, and helping create inclusive community spaces where people feel safe, respected, and valued. You do not need formal qualifications or professional experience to become a mentor.
Some Community Mentors have lived experience of disability. Others are carers, allies, or community members who want to support inclusion in practical ways. What matters most is your willingness to listen, learn, and support others to have their voices heard.
Community Mentors are offered training and ongoing support through Advocacy WA. Training focuses on disability rights, respectful relationships, communication, boundaries, and side by side support. You are never expected to manage situations alone, support is always available.
Register your interest to become a Community Mentor here:
👉 https://wkf.ms/4qVC15f
D Connect also brings people together through practical, community led projects that aim to remove barriers and improve access and inclusion across the South West.
One example is our All Access Events work. Through this project, people with disability are supported to attend local events, share their experiences, and work alongside event organisers to understand what works well and what could be improved. This feedback helps events become more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
D Connect projects turn lived experience into action. They create opportunities for learning, collaboration, and real change in community spaces.
You can get involved as a participant, contributor, volunteer, or collaborator, depending on the project and what feels right for you.
Contact projects@advocacywa.org.au for more information
You can join D Connect in one way or many. You might start by joining the mailing list and later attend a group. You might come to a peer support group and decide to become a mentor. You might only take part in projects that interest you.
All of these ways of connecting matter.
