We get asked this a lot, and it’s one of our favourite questions. Intimacy is about closeness, trust and feeling safe – no matter what form it takes. It can be:
Talking about intimacy can feel tricky – even risky. This workshop helps parents, families and friends feel more confident.* Topics include:
By the end of this workshop, you will have examined barriers to talking about intimacy, gained knowledge about intimacy and developmental disabilities, and acquired and practiced skills in communicating about intimacy.
*Available on demand for Victorian schools, peak bodies, community health organisations, councils and representative organisations.
Please note this is only available to people receiving Melba supports.
If you are seeking support for yourself or someone else, contact us today.
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Intimacy is not just about romance, it’s about closeness, trust and feeling safe – no matter what form it takes. Whether it’s sharing thoughts, feelings or simply spending time together, intimacy creates a sense of comfort and belonging that we all need – and it’s not just nice to have, it’s a basic human right.
The Melba Intimacy Project is about supporting people to understand, explore and express their relationships, sexuality and personal boundaries in a safe, respectful, and person centred way. It’s also about supporting parents, friends and families to understand why it’s important and how to have conversations about it.
Intimacy matters because it helps us feel close, connected and understood. It builds trust and deepens relationships, making them stronger and more meaningful.
Discussing intimacy helps make the topic feel normal and open, while challenging the unhealthy messages we sometimes get. It gives people the confidence to make informed choices and supports safety, self-esteem, and healthy, positive relationships.
We run workshops for people with disability aimed at supporting them to understand intimacy as a human right and explore its many forms — emotional, social, physical and sexual. They provide practical tools and knowledge to support healthy relationships and personal empowerment. We also run workshops for parents, friends and family that include four core modules:
These modules help participants gain confidence, learn communication strategies and understand barriers to discussing intimacy.
You can register your interest through the links provided on the intimacy page or by contacting the organiser directly (Kate Taylor, see below). For upcoming sessions such as Introduction to Friendships, Relationships and Intimacy Workshop, check the events calendar or email kate.taylor@melbasupport.com.au.
We follow strict privacy practices, respects personal boundaries, and ensure all support is delivered discreetly, respectfully and only with the person’s consent.
Support workers and our other employees provide information and practical assistance within professional boundaries. They help people access the right resources and make informed decisions. They do not engage in intimate acts.
Melba supports people’s rights to pursue relationships. Our employees can help with education and connecting with appropriate external professionals if needed.
We consult with qualified professionals and relay all information.
Yes — with the person’s permission. Wea encourage open communication while always prioritising the peron’s wishes, rights and autonomy. The best way that parents, friends and family can get involved is by booking into a workshop.
Our employees are encouraged to seek guidance from their team leader, refer to our policies, or request specialist training. The goal is to ensure safe, consistent and respectful support.
