Disability Charities
Around 4.4 million Australians live with disability. This guide helps you find charities that provide genuine support, advocacy and inclusion — not just services that create dependency.
About this cause
Disability in Australia covers a vast range of conditions and circumstances — physical, intellectual, sensory, psychosocial and neurological. The introduction of the NDIS has transformed how disability services are funded and delivered, but significant gaps remain, particularly for people who don't qualify for NDIS or need support beyond what it covers.
The best disability charities are those that centre the voices and leadership of people with disability themselves — advocating for rights and inclusion, not just providing services. When choosing a disability charity, consider whether it is led by or meaningfully involves people with disability in its governance and decision-making.
What to look for
- Nothing about us without us: The most effective disability organisations involve people with disability in leadership and decision-making — not just as beneficiaries.
- Rights vs charity model: The best organisations advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disability, rather than treating disability as something to be fixed or pitied.
- NDIS gaps: Many people with disability fall through NDIS gaps — look for charities that serve those not covered by the scheme.
- Specific vs general: Some charities focus on specific conditions (autism, blindness, cerebral palsy); others support people with any disability. Consider which approach resonates with you.
- Carers and families: Many disability charities also support carers and family members — an often overlooked but critical group.
Find your best match
Answer two quick questions to narrow down the right charity for you.
Our curated picks
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