Other Australian Government support and programs

The Australian Government delivers a variety of programs and services to give people with disability equal opportunity in Australian society. These programs and services are designed to ensure that people with disability can enjoy rich and fulfilling lives, free of discrimination.

National Disability Insurance Scheme

If you have a permanent and significant disability the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may be able to help you take part in the community and everyday activities. If you meet the access requirements for the NDIS, you will receive support to enjoy independence, involvement in your community, education, employment, health and wellbeing over your lifetime. For more information, visit the NDIS website or call 1800 800 110.

National Disability Advocacy Program

Do you need someone to speak, act or write on your behalf to make sure your welfare needs are met? If so, the National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP) can help you get free support to uphold your rights as a person with disability. For more information, visit the Department of Social Services website or email disabilityadvocacy@dss.gov.au.

Translating and Interpreting Service

If you know someone who has trouble understanding English and needs an interpreter, they can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS). The service provides immediate phone interpreting and on-site interpreting at no cost to help people communicate with government agencies and businesses. For more information, visit the Translating and Interpreting Service website or call 131 450.

Independent Living Centres

Do you need special technology or changes to equipment to access work and work-related activities? If so, Independent Living Centres Australia can link you to local support to help you in the workplace as well as at home and when using transport. For more information, visit the Independent Living Centres Australia website or call 1300 885 886.

Day options or day programs

Day options or day programs give adults with disability the chance to take part in meaningful activities that promote learning and skill development, and to feel a part of their local communities. Contact your State or Territory Government for more information about day programs available to you:

ACT

NSW

NT

QLD

SA

For more information about programs in South Australia, please contact the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

TAS

VIC

WA

  • Telephone: 08 9426 9200 or 1800 998 214 (Freecall) (TTY)  08 9426 9315
  • Email: dsc@dsc.wa.gov.au
  • Fax: 08 9226 2306
  • Address:
    Department of Communities, Disability Services
    146–160 Colin Street
    West Perth
    WA 6005

    PO Box 44
    West Perth
    WA 6872

Australian Government Hearing Services Program 

If you have a hearing impairment and need help with the cost of hearing services, the Australian Government Hearing Services Program may be able to help you. These services could include a hearing assessment, support and rehabilitation services, or purchase and maintenance of hearing devices. For more information, including eligibility, visit the Hearing Services Program website.

Mail for the Blind

If you are blind or have vision impairment, Australia Post’s Mail for the Blind service may deliver certain items either for free or at a discounted rate. For more information, including eligibility, visit the Australia Post website.

Complaints Resolution and Referral Service

If you are unhappy about the services you are receiving from a Disability Employment Service, an Australian Disability Enterprise or an Advocacy Service, contact the Complaints Resolution and Referral Service (CRRS). The CRRS will listen to your concerns and help resolve the issues you are having. More information is available under the Complaints page or call 1800 880 052.

National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline

If you or someone you know has a disability and has experienced abuse or neglect, the National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline can help. This service allows you to report any cases of physical, sexual, psychological, financial, legal and civil abuse toward a person with disability. More information is available under the Complaints page or call 1800 880 052.

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