Dear Ministers
while it is really important that research to benefit people with disability who can participate in the research be supported, please recognise that it leaves the question of "where is the research for people with disability who cannot participate in this way?" ... such as the part of the autism sector that will remain in the NDIS once the 1-10 severity group is sent elsewhere (Thriving kids and foundational supports). Where is the research for autistic people with high and/or complex support needs often with major cognitive and communication impairment who cannot participate in a scheme such as this?
What research will be done for their benefit and by whom?
At present, we can't even get basic participant numbers and cost (distribution?) info. from the NDIS or the NDDA in relation to the NDIS 11-14 severity autism group ... or a breakdown of ASD Levels 1-3. It would be good to see this data with state and age breakdowns.
I would also like to know "what proportion of the disability budget goes into research?" And whether the breakdown of disability research expenditure is proportionate or at a best-practice level for research funding relative to government spending?
Also, please note A4's unanswered question's policy - see the fine print below.
Bob Buckley
Co-convenor, Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia (A4)
website: http://a4.org.au/
A4, a recognised disability representative organisation (DRO), advocates for autistic people, their families, carers and associates. A4 is internet based so that Australians anywhere can participate in and contribute to A4's advocacy for autistic people, their carers and allies.
A4 recognises the Traditional Owners of lands in Australia; we respect their elders past, present and emerging. Sovereignty was never ceded.
Recipients of correspondence from A4, especially politicians and government officials, are all subject to A4's policy on unanswered questions: see http://a4.org.au/node/1419.
The autism issue is that autistic people just don't deliver on the plans, dreams and expectations in other peoples' heads.
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Launched today: $5 million for disability-led research
Announcing the NDRP 2026 Disability Research Funding round!
We're investing $5 million in disability-led research that will drive policy and systems change.
What we're funding
Research focused on:
- Safety of people with disability (including pathways to ending restrictive practices)
- Accessible and inclusive communities.
Key details
- Up to $300,000 per project
- 12-month projects
- Applications open: 23 February 2026
- Applications close: 5:00pm AEST, 20 April 2026
Who can apply?
This funding supports collaborative, disability-led research. All projects must demonstrate leadership by and with people with disability.
Need help getting started?
Join our free online information sessions:
Research by and with People with Disability
- Monday 2 March 2026, 12:30pm – 2.00pm AEDT
What you'll learn: How to build capability in co-design, power-aware practice, governance models, and inclusive research methods.
Online interactive session. This session will be recorded.
Q&A drop-in sessions:
- Monday 16 March 2026, 1pm – 2.30pm AEDT
- Wednesday 18 March 2026, 4.30pm – 6pm AEDT
- Monday 30 March 2026, 1pm – 2.30pm AEDT
- Wednesday 1 April 2026, 4.30pm – 6pm AEDT
National Disability Research Partnership, Suite 4/109 Union Road, Surrey Hills, Vic 3127
