Videos and News Articles

"The Call for a Mate"

"Gig Buddies @gig_buddies_sydney is an non-for-profit organisation which helps isolated adults living with learning disabilities, autism and neurodivergence find a mate - but they need volunteers, particularly on the Northern Beaches."

Neilo’s buddied up and out spreading his wings socially

Birrong National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant Neilo Ferreira is a bit on the shy side, but thanks to Gig Buddies volunteer Jan Ireland working with him one-on-one and taking him places he’s out spreading his wings socially.

‘Gig Buddies’ Building Bonds Beyond the World of Volunteering

“We’re very much a befriending project... We pair them up with a volunteer, based on mutual interests."

Overcoming social isolation with Gig Buddies

An interview with Fraser who shares his social experiences connecting with Gig Buddies.

"How I started this thing: Gig Buddies Sydney"

"Carol Smail, CEO GigBuddies Sydney, shares how a chance meeting helped start a volunteer program to increase access to performances for people with disability."

"A call for volunteers to make a buddy for life"

"For many Australians living with autism or a learning disability and trying to maintain a social life can not only be a challenge, but it can also be daunting. Gig Buddies is a not-for-profit organisation that is tackling the isolation of this demographic."

"52 acts of kindness: how to spread joy in every week of 2023"

"Gig Buddies are number 34 on this list!!"

ACL and Gig Buddies News - Easy Read

For the latest news on ACL Disability Services and the Gig Buddies Sydney project in an easy read format, please click below

A night out with Gig Buddies

(Video) NDIS Story - Gig Buddies Rocks Inclusion

"Gig Buddies Sydney calling for Pittwater volunteers"

"The program aims to put an end to social isolation and matches people based on a shared interest"

"Gig Buddies program tackles social isolation"

"The Central Coast is tackling social isolation for adults with disability...

"Buddying Up" by David Shilovsky

"Neutral Bay local Carol Smail is the CEO of McMahons Point-based not-for-profit ACL, which runs the successful Gig Buddies program."

"Gig Buddies; a sign of true friendship"

Having a buddy can mean so much. It may be someone who shares your passions and interests, or a friend to share experiences with. Gig Buddies is a socially inclusive program...

"Things you only know if you're a gig buddy"

"When I went into the program, I was expecting to have to do a lot of heavy lifting, socially – and that’s my ignorance. I really wasn’t expecting that level of connection with someone" - David