NDIS Programs & Life Skills Workshops Hervey Bay & Fraser Coast

Looking for connection, confidence, and something to look forward to? Our NDIS programs and workshops in Hervey Bay and Maryborough are built around real skills, real friendships, and a genuine good time. We don’t do boring — and we never have.

Programs Built Around Real Goals, Real People

At FCDS, our programs are funded through your NDIS plan — primarily through Capacity Building Supports — and designed to help you grow skills that make a genuine difference to your everyday life. Whether that’s cooking a meal from scratch, getting ready for employment, building financial independence, or simply making new friends in a community that feels like yours, there’s a program here for you.

We run our programs across Hervey Bay and Maryborough, and they’re open to NDIS participants aged 7 and above. If you’re new to the Fraser Coast and looking for a way to settle in and meet people, our programs are one of the best places to start.

New to Hervey Bay? Here's how our programs help you build a community →

Rising Stars Program — Life Skills & Employment Readiness

The Rising Stars Program is all about helping you shine. Each week, participants come together in a group setting to explore their interests, discover their strengths, and learn new skills that actually matter in the real world.

From writing resumes and improving communication to meeting with local employers and exploring what it looks like to run your own small business — Rising Stars covers the ground that school often doesn’t. We work closely with businesses across Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and the Fraser Coast, giving participants real opportunities to connect with potential employers and explore what’s possible.

Each month, we celebrate one of our Rising Stars with a nomination and a special reward. Because around here, we love cheering each other on. Rising Stars is particularly well suited to young adults who are ready to think about employment, supported employment, or just want to build the confidence that comes from learning something new and nailing it.

Interested in Rising Stars? Get in touch to find out the next program dates →

Get Ready Program — Independence Skills for Young Adults

Dreaming about moving out of home but not sure where to start? The Get Ready program is for you.

This program helps you build the skills you’ll need to live independently — at your pace, in your way. We cover everything from meal prep and cleaning to budgeting, time management, and learning how to stay safe and confident in your own space. It’s not just about surviving on your own — it’s about learning how to thrive.

Get Ready works well alongside SIL and ILO pathways — if independent living is on the horizon, this program helps you get there feeling prepared rather than thrown in the deep end.

Social Programs — Connection, Community & a Good Time

Life’s more fun when we’re in it together. Our social programs are designed to build genuine friendships and community connection — not just a group of people sitting in the same room.

Social Mix Events

Our Social Mix happens on the last Wednesday of every month and is open to everyone. Come for food, stay for the laughs, and enjoy a mix of fun activities designed to help people connect, relax, and have a great time in a safe, friendly space. Bring a friend or come solo — there’s always room at the table.

Ladies Night

Every Wednesday evening, the women of FCDS come together to unwind, connect, and just have fun. From karaoke to dance nights and dinners out on the town, Ladies Night is all about building community and confidence in a way that’s relaxed and supportive. Whether you’re new or just looking to make more connections, this is a great place to start.

Boys Night

Our Boys Night is for men who want to catch up with mates, share a meal, and enjoy some good old-fashioned bloke time. We head out for dinner, chat about life, and sometimes throw in a few laughs with an activity or two. It’s casual, friendly, and a great way to build new friendships in a relaxed environment.

Frequently asked questions

01. What is the Rising Star program for NDIS participants?

Rising Stars is an FCDS life skills and employment readiness program for NDIS participants in Hervey Bay and Maryborough. Each week, participants come together to build practical skills — communication, resume writing, budgeting, and connecting with local employers. It’s designed for people who want to grow toward employment or simply want to learn real skills in a supported group environment. Call Josie on 0418 22 84 52 to find out when the next program runs.

02. Are FCDS programs funded through my NDIS plan?

Yes most of our programs are funded through the Capacity Building Supports budget in your NDIS plan, specifically the Improved Daily Living or Improved Living Arrangements categories. The social programs may draw on Core Supports depending on how your plan is structured. Your support coordinator or plan manager can confirm which funding applies to you. We’re also happy to have that conversation directly.

03. Can I join a program if I'm new to Hervey Bay?

Absolutely our programs are a great way to meet people and build connections when you’ve just arrived in the area. We regularly welcome participants who are new to the Fraser Coast. Give us a call and we’ll let you know what’s coming up and how to get involved.

04. What age group are the programs suitable for?

We support participants aged 7 and above across all our programs. The Rising Stars and Get Ready programs are primarily designed for teenagers and young adults. The social mix event is open to adults of all ages. If you’re not sure which program is the right fit, just call us and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Want to Get Involved?

If any of these programs sound like something you’d enjoy — or you want to know what’s coming up next — give Josie a call on 0418 22 84 52. She’ll walk you through what’s on, who it’s suited to, and how to get your NDIS funding set up to cover it. Our programs fill up, so the earlier you get in touch the better.