ConnectUp: Citizen Science informed online platform to increase social connection, physical health, and mental wellbeing in people with disability and their carers
ConnectUp is three-year project that aims to enhance a co-designed online platform (ConnectUp), to foster social connections among people living with a disability and carers. The project is led by University of Melbourne along with key collaborating partners (Australian Citizen Science Association, Carers Australia and Carers WA and Ramsay Health Care).
Citizen Science in ConnectUp: The project will be recruiting citizens to provide feedback on specific stages of the ConnectUp project: (e.g., co-design stage: providing feedback on ConnectUp design features appeal and functionality; Implementation stage: informing the implementation of ConnectUp in WA; and Evaluation stage: providing feedback on the reach, adoption and impact of ConnectUp on people living with a disability and carers. To find out more please contact (Associate Professor Dominika Kwasnicka dom.kwasnicka@unimelb.edu.auor Professor Lucio Naccarella l.naccarella@unimelb.edu.au) Read more at https://connectup.org.au/
After two-years the ConnectUp MRFF project (officially commencing on 1 June 2024) officially launched ConnectUp and the App to the broader community on June 7, 2026.
ConnectUp is a free online platform co-designed with the people it’s built for, people with disability and carers. It helps users:
Contribute to a growing map and calendar of inclusive opportunities. You can now download the app for Apple and Android
Connect with others in their local area
Find inclusive physical activities near them
Share feedback on places and activities
Over the previous 24 months, the project delivered 22 co-design workshops, beta testing with 50 users, four peer-reviewed publications, multiple national and international conference presentations, and additional grant funding (see full list of outputs below).
Key achievements and plans (June 2026)
- Completed 12 co-design workshops with carers and people with disability and 10 additional ones with young carers and young people with disability.
- Completed alpha testing and beta testing involving 50 users.
- Implemented multiple improvements based on user feedback, including an in-app tour, redesigned home screen, app notifications, and enhanced usability and functionality.
- Launched ConnectUp through a community “Try New Sports” event for people with disability and carers, featuring inclusive sports, music, food, and opportunities to connect with local organisations.
Members of the ConnectUp Consumer Advisory Board
