A woman smiles and hugs a young girl with Down syndrome. They are sitting by a sunny window, both looking happy and joyful.

You're not alone. We're here to help.

Parenting a child with disability, developmental delay, Autism, rare or genetic conditions can feel overwhelming at times—but you don’t have to do it alone. Our programs are designed to give you the connection, guidance, and confidence you need. 

Whether you want to connect with others, learn practical strategies, or focus on your own wellbeing, there’s something here for you. 

Explore our programs

A smiling woman wearing glasses waves at her laptop screen while sitting indoors, with a potted plant next to her on a sunny day.A smiling woman in glasses and an orange checkered shirt holds a young child who is whispering in her ear. They are outdoors in front of a green hedge on a sunny day.A woman holds a young child while talking on the phone, looking concerned. The child faces her, both indoors with a light background.A man with glasses holds a young girl, while a woman smiles at them. The girl looks content, and the family stands together against a plain background.A woman smiles and tickles the bare foot of a young child who is laughing while lying on a colorful bean bag. They are playing together on a soft, yellow play mat indoors.Two women in athletic wear walk on a paved path next to a beach, with ocean waves and greenery visible in the background. One holds a phone, and both appear to be exercising or enjoying a casual walk.

What to expect

Free to join

Every program is free, with no diagnosis, referral, or NDIS plan required.

Created with families

Programs are designed and delivered by parents who understand the journey firsthand.

Practical and supportive

Everything we offer is welcoming, relevant, and useful in everyday family life.

Accessible online

Most programs are delivered virtually, so you can join from the comfort of home.

Flexible participation

Choose daytime or evening times, take part in ways that feel right for you, or catch up later with recordings.

Evidence-based programs

We partner with leading universities to bring you evidence-based programs.

What parents are saying

A woman stands on a street holding a toddler, while two young boys in casual clothes smile and look back at the camera. The sun sets in the background, casting a warm glow over the scene.

I am so grateful for the work of Belongside Families. I am a stronger parent because of the support and information they provide. A peer led organisation is an exceptional thing.

Parent
A man holds a sleeping baby while a woman stands close, touching the babys hand. A young child stands nearby at the counter, focused on a red container. They are all in a bright, modern kitchen.

Thank you for supporting us as parents and allowing us to best support our children.

Parent
A smiling group poses indoors: an older woman holds a young girl, a boy sits in a wheelchair holding a sign, a woman crouches beside them, and a baby in a bow headband sits on her lap.

Connecting with Belongside Families and the wonderful empowering programs they run and resources has been life changing for our family.

Parent
A smiling woman in a yellow dress and a young boy stand together by a decorated garden frame with pink flowers and bunting, outdoors, with children playing in the blurred background.

Belongside Families has impacted my life in a very positive way, it has helped me learn a lot about not only my son but myself as well.

Parent
A smiling man wearing sunglasses and a black shirt with a rainbow infinity symbol holds a boy in a blue soccer jersey outdoors on a sunny day. Trees and people are visible in the background.

It’s changed the way I think. I have become more confident in advocating for my son. As well as connecting to like-minded people who understand.

Parent
A smiling couple stands close together, holding their baby. The man wears a black shirt, the woman a white dress, and the baby is dressed in grey with a blue bib. They are indoors with natural light coming from a window.

I really love the Belongside Community. Parents and carers here are always uplifting and supportive, generous in sharing their experiences and wisdom. You never feel alone on your child’s disability journey — there are always people ready to support you in the hardest times and celebrate the milestones. I’m truly grateful to be part of it.

Parent in Belongside Community
A smiling couple poses closely with a laughing young girl who has Down syndrome. The girl holds her hands up playfully in front of her face. They all appear happy and are enjoying a joyful moment together.

Thank you, Belongside Families. It is a breath of fresh air to find a community of parents that are positive and supportive. My whole perception has changed and what my daughter’s future will look like.

Parent in Belongside Community

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