Disability Support
Finding disability support: where to start
Turn a broad search for support into clearer questions, useful official starting points and conversations with potential providers.
Put the need into everyday words
It is easier to search when you can describe what you want help with. That might be getting to an activity, understanding available services, managing a daily routine or finding someone to discuss a change at home. Start with the situation and the outcome you want, rather than assuming the name of a program or service.
Write down your location, preferred way to communicate, any timing requirements and the features a service must have to work for you. You do not need to include your full personal history in a first enquiry. Ask what information a service needs and why.
Use a relevant starting point
- Disability Gateway: a national starting point for disability information and connections to services.
- NDIS: the official place for current scheme information, access processes and participant resources.
- Carer Gateway: information and support pathways for people in a caring role.
- Companion Card programs: state and territory contacts for card applications and enquiries.
These services have different roles. Contacting one does not establish eligibility for another, and a provider’s advertisement is not a funding decision. Use the official service to understand the process that applies to you.
Prepare for a provider conversation
- What does the service actually include, and what is outside its scope?
- Who will deliver it, with what relevant experience and qualifications?
- Can it accommodate your communication, access, cultural or scheduling needs?
- What are the fees, cancellation terms, waiting arrangements and other charges?
- How can you raise a concern or request a change?
- What information will be collected, who can see it and how is it protected?
Keep control of the choice
Ask for written information you can review at your own pace. If the service is hard to understand, request a clearer explanation, an accessible format or time to discuss it with someone you trust. Compare providers on the aspects that matter to you, including continuity and how they respond to questions.
Be clear about consent and the role of any person supporting the conversation. Having a carer or family member present should not mean the provider stops speaking directly with you. Ask how your preferences will be recorded and updated.
Check the practical details before agreeing
Understand the agreement, costs and responsibilities before the service starts. If funding is involved, verify the arrangement with the relevant program or your authorised plan contacts. Do not assume a service will be paid for because it appears in a directory or is described as disability support.
For help planning shared routines, read planning support with a carer. For an outing rather than an ongoing service, our Companion Card booking guide may be a better next step.
Sources and further reading
Official source pages checked on 7 October 2026. Programs and booking arrangements can change. Use the linked official service for current rules and individual enquiries.