From Lived Experience to Lasting Impact: Inside Rely-Ability
Image credit: Client Nathan Bell working on his painting in the centre. Courtesy of Rely-Ability.
Founded in 2016, Rely-Ability emerged from a clear recognition that traditional clinical models of support were not meeting the needs of people living with mental health challenges or psychosocial disabilities. Grounded in lived experience and shaped by more than 15 years of work in community welfare and mental health, the organisation takes a deeply human approach centred on trust, creativity, and self-determination.
Through peer-led programs across music, visual art, animation, and media production, Rely-Ability empowers participants to reclaim agency, build skills, and reconnect with their communities. In this conversation, founder Michael Macokatic reflects on the origins of Rely-Ability, the power of creative practice in mental health recovery, and the moments that continue to affirm the organisation’s impact.
What inspired you to start Rely-Ability, and why focus on lived-experience-led support?
With over 15 years in public welfare, particularly in child and family services and non-clinical mental health, I saw firsthand the gaps in support for people with psychosocial disabilities. In 2016, I founded Rely-Ability to fill that void, creating a service that truly empowers clients to lead their own recovery. The inspiration came from my belief that true healing happens when people feel valued and in control. We focus on lived-experience-led support because peers who've walked similar paths bring authenticity and empathy that traditional models often lack. It's about building trust and showing that recovery is possible.
How does your background in community welfare and mental health influence the way you run Rely-Ability?
My Bachelor of Arts in Community Welfare & Human Services and Philosophy from the University of Newcastle laid the foundation for a holistic approach. Years in welfare taught me the importance of personalised, non-clinical care, so at Rely-Ability, we prioritise client choice and co-design programs around individual goals. My mental health experience ensures we avoid one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we foster environments where clients feel safe to explore and grow, blending welfare principles with creative therapy to promote independence and community participation.
Why is creative practice, like music, animation, or painting, so important in supporting mental health?
Creative practices are transformative because they provide a non-verbal outlet for expression, helping clients process emotions and build resilience. At our Creativity Hub in Tighes Hill, activities such as animation, painting, and music aren't just hobbies—they're tools for self-discovery and skill-building. Research shows that creativity reduces stress, boosts confidence, and fosters social connections, all of which are crucial for mental health recovery. For our clients, it's about turning vulnerability into strength, creating something tangible that reinforces their sense of achievement.
Image credit: Photo 3 Clients Nathan Bell, Paul Russon, Chad Kitchen and staff Andrew Macokatic and Brad Sesom at Saturday rehearsals of the client staff band 'Late Cancellation'. Courtesy of Rely-Ability.
The music program is led by staff with lived experience. How does that make a difference for participants?
Our music program, led by peers like Andrew Macokatic and Colin Wright, who bring their own mental health journeys, creates a level playing field where participants feel understood rather than judged. This shared experience builds instant rapport, encouraging clients to open up and take risks. It differs from traditional therapy by emphasising collaboration over instruction; participants co-create songs, perform live, or busk, gaining confidence and real-world skills. The empathy from lived experience turns sessions into empowering partnerships, leading to breakthroughs that clinical approaches might miss.
What moments make you feel Rely-Ability is making an impact?
One standout moment was when a client, Nathan Bell, started in our EMOW program as a supported employee and grew into our marketing lead, securing over 30 media interviews in two years. Seeing him thrive from vulnerability to advocacy is profound. Another is our busking program, where clients perform publicly for the first time; watching their faces light up with pride reinforces our impact. These stories show how we're not just providing support; we're changing lives by helping people reclaim their narratives.
How do you help participants turn their creative projects into achievements, like publishing a book or producing a video?
We start with co-design, matching clients with mentors such as our graphic designers or sound producers based on their goals. For books, we guide through writing, editing, and self-publishing; for videos, we use professional equipment like green screens and an ATEM Mini Pro to create polished content. We elevate profiles via live streams, exhibitions, or media channels—Nathan's work has amplified many client stories. It's about skill-building and real outcomes, ensuring projects align with NDIS goals for independence.
How do you tailor programs for different skill levels, from beginners to advanced participants?
Our programs are flexible and client-led, evolving based on input, like our animation program born from a single request. Beginners get foundational guidance in a safe space, using accessible tools to build confidence. Advanced participants dive into complex projects, such as producing albums or touring. We match skill levels with peer mentors, adjusting ratios (e.g., 1:1 for novices) and incorporating recreational activities for balance. Regular reviews ensure everyone progresses at their own pace.
What role does community and collaboration play in your programs?
Community is the heartbeat of Rely-Ability. We foster inclusive spaces where clients collaborate on projects, like joint exhibitions or busking gigs. This builds social skills, reduces isolation, and creates lasting bonds. Programs like our peer rock band, 'Moving Shadows, ' encourage teamwork, while the Creativity Hub hosts group activities that blend art and outings. Collaboration amplifies individual strengths, turning personal recovery into shared empowerment and integrating clients into broader networks.
What’s next for Rely-Ability? Are there new programs or directions you’re excited about?
We're expanding our Creativity Hub with more digital tools for animation and video production, and considering the idea of opening a second creativity hub. I'm also excited about expanding our affordable housing program. As we grow, we'll focus on more peer-led initiatives, such as advanced music mentorship, to continue innovating in mental health support.
