Whats Doing is here to make going out, catching up with friends and participating in the community easier. Whether you’re craving a casual coffee meetup or a lively night out, Whats Doing mobile app can provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions on where to go.
Available for free in the Gold Coast and Brisbane, Whats Doing isn't just another venue listing app. Developed with an understanding of the barriers faced by people with disability, and with input from people with lived experience, this app goes above and beyond by offering comprehensive access information. With a few taps on the phone, users can discover cafes, restaurants, bars and activities in their area that cater to their access requirements.
Whats Doing, is one of CPL Group’s latest Inclusion Impact Fund (IIF) recipients, a one-of-a-kind grants fund focused on funding projects that breakdown or remove the barriers faced by people with disability in Australia.
“For too long, people with disability have just wanted to feel included, but have struggled to do so when there is a lack of support and information. People don't realise how many disabled people can't go to a cafe, restaurant, or bar simply because there's one step to get into the entry, or there is no parking nearby.” Said Rocky, Founder and CEO of Whats Doing.
With firsthand experience within their team, Whats Doing understands the frustration of missing out on enjoyable activities and events due to unmet access needs. That's why the app provides helpful venue accessibility details such as ramps, ground-level entry, noise levels, disability awareness trained staff, and accessible parking. Allowing people with disability to focus on doing the things they love and enjoying the moment, rather than navigating inaccessible spaces.
“As an individual living with a disability, the social scene isn't as fancy-free as it looks. A lived experience is very different to a shared experience. As venues were visited and adventures were taken week after week, I suddenly found myself in a panic. Turning up to venues completely inaccessible for a person with disability was not only intimidating but also disappointing. Suddenly, my friend's plans had to change because of me.
Since discovering the Whats Doing App, I’ve been able to view in more detail accessible venues and activities. I have found an accessible gym with a personal trainer that personalises exercises to my needs, I go on more accessible trail walks and am about to take up skateboarding. The Whats Doing App has helped give me more confidence in leaving the house. I am now more prepared when I want to try a venue or activity. I feel better now, more confident and healthier.” Said Whats Doing user, Journee.
The app's impact extends beyond individual users, it creates positive change in society by raising awareness about the importance of accessibility in public spaces. By partnering with venues, the Whats Doing team advocates inclusivity and educates businesses on the steps they can take to create welcoming environments for all. Through these efforts, Whats Doing not only helps to remove physical barriers but also societal barriers, creating a more inclusive future for all.
“We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to catch up with friends over a meal or a drink without worrying about a venue’s accessibility. Our goal in creating this app is to give the confidence back to people with disability to get out of the house and socialise.” Adds Rocky.
Whats Doing is suitable for all people with disability, along with their family and friends, and support workers. Download the app on Apple Store or Google Play today.
The CPL Group Inclusion Impact Fund (IIF) identifies innovations which stand to have a profound impact in the lives of people with disability, and provides them with grant funding to further create, develop or expand their business idea. The IIF focuses on innovations which will ultimately remove barriers faced by people with disability, like transport and travel, employment, community access, and general inclusion in daily life.
Read more about the IIF and their latest recipients here.
