Media Release
Disability organisations are calling for urgent funding lifeline to address rising demand for advocacy
This week, a group of 52 disability advocacy organisations issued a joint call on governments to increase funding for advocacy to sustain their crucial services amid growing demand for support by people with disability, with waitlists increasing, most losing staff and closing services.
Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA), the national peak body for disability advocacy services, says insufficient funding has forced many vital local organisations to close programs, cutback staff and in some cases, close their doors.
DANA CEO Jeff Smith has warned that the continued lack of additional investment by governments in the advocacy sector will have severe implications for people with disability.
“Our organisations play an essential role in ensuring that marginalised people with disability can get help when they are being hurt, neglected, discriminated against and excluded by services, supports and people in the community,” Mr Smith said.
“The Disability Royal Commission (DRC) and the NDIS Review both highlighted the vital role of independent disability advocacy in their final reports, and the need to increase funding to meet demand.
“Despite the clear acknowledgment of their importance, these organisations are struggling with a lack of resources and funding.”
Mr Smith said the need for trusted, independent advocacy will become even more critical when changes from the DRC and NDIS Review begin to take effect.
“These same organisations that people with disability rely on for navigating new reforms are experiencing a severe crisis themselves.
“93% of our members are considering staff cuts or have already reduced hours or made staff redundant ahead of this new financial year. 85% of our members have said that their waitlists will get longer.”
The 52 organisations endorsing the joint statement have indicated that without immediate government action, they will continue losing staff and turning away increasing numbers of people with disability in crisis.
Disability advocacy organisations urgently need:
An additional $29 million for National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP) organisations to meet existing advocacy demand until mid-2025.
$13 million for a dedicated funding boost for advocacy providers operating in rural, remote, and very remote areas to meet the immediate need.
$5.225 million for training in Disaster Management, First Nations cultural safety training, resources and pilots, and Supported Decision Making awareness.
$17 million to be allocated to State and Territory disability advocacy programs to sustain organisations currently outside of the Federally funded NDAP.
An urgent funding lifeline is needed now to sustain organisations during this period of transition up to July 2025.
Media Contact: Jessica Schulz (DANA) 0433 849 396
Jessica.schulz@dana.org.au