Applications are now open for the NDRP 2026 Disability Research Funding, led by the National Disability Research Partnership (NDRP).
The NDRP is investing $5 million in collaborative, disability-led research across Australia. Grants of up to $300,000 per project are available for 12-month research projects under two major themes.
📅 Application Deadline: 20 April 2026 (5:00pm AEST)
📍 Location: Australia
💰 Funding: Up to $300,000 per project
Funding Overview
- Total funding pool: $5 million
- Up to $300,000 per project
- 12-month project duration
- Applications submitted via SmartyGrants
- Projects must be disability-led and demonstrate leadership by and with people with disability
Organisations must:
- Be based in Australia
- Hold a valid ABN
- Demonstrate meaningful collaboration with people with disability
Research Themes & Opportunities
THEME 1: Safety of People with Disability
🔹 Opportunity 1A (Open)
Research projects addressing the safety of people with disability.
Teams can define their own research focus within this theme.
- Up to $300,000 per project
- $2.4 million available
🔹 Opportunity 1B (Targeted)
Research projects focused on pathways to eliminating restrictive practices for people with disability.
- Up to $300,000 per project
- $600,000 available
THEME 2: Accessible and Inclusive Communities
🔹 Opportunity 2A (Open)
Research projects focused on accessible and inclusive communities.
Teams can define their own research focus within this theme.
- Up to $300,000 per project
- $2 million available
Key Dates
- Applications open: 23 February 2026
- Applications close: 20 April 2026 (5:00pm AEST)
- Successful applicants notified: 30 May 2026
- Contract execution: 15 June 2026
- Project start date: 1 July 2026
- Project completion: 30 June 2027
Free Information Sessions
Need help preparing your application? The NDRP is hosting free online sessions:
- 2 March: Research by and with people with disability
- 16 March: Q&A session
- 18 March: Q&A session
- 30 March: Q&A session
- 1 April: Q&A session
These sessions provide guidance on disability-led research, partnership models, and application requirements.
Why Apply for NDRP 2026 Funding?
✔ Strong financial support (up to $300,000)
✔ National research visibility
✔ Focus on disability leadership and lived experience
✔ Opportunity to influence policy and community outcomes
✔ Collaborative and inclusive research design
The NDRP 2026 Disability Research Funding is ideal for Australian organisations committed to advancing safety, inclusion, and rights for people with disability through research led by lived experience.
For more research grants and funding opportunities, visit here
