$1 million to drive more support for people with disability

12 August 2025

The NSW Government has delivered over $1 million in grants to support people with disability across the state.

Thirteen not-for-profit organisations will share in over $1 million through the 2024-25 Disability Advocacy Futures Program (DAFP) grants. The funding will help to build the capacity of the sector, extend support to people not covered by the NDIS, and empower people with disability to participate more fully and confidently in community life.

Funded projects of between $20,000 and $100,000 aim to:

• Increase supports that enable people with disability to participate in their communities.
• Strengthen the NSW disability advocacy sector through collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Build stronger networks and learning opportunities for advocacy organisations in NSW.

From supporting children newly diagnosed with neuromuscular conditions, to young disability advocates, to Aboriginal students with autism and their families — each initiative aims to close gaps, remove barriers, and strengthen support.

Now in its third funding round, the DAFP Special Purposes and Projects and Sector Development stream is growing the skills, reach and resilience of NSW’s disability advocacy organisations.

The DAFP is a cornerstone of the NSW Government’s commitment to disability advocacy, with the program extended in March 2024 with a further $28 million in funding — securing support through to June 2026. It now funds 19 organisations across NSW to deliver individual, systemic and representative advocacy, as well as sector development.

By investing in advocacy today, the NSW Government is building a more inclusive and equitable future — where every person with disability has the tools, the voice, and the support to participate fully in their community.

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“We’re proud to be backing these incredible organisations that support people with disability every day — helping them to be heard, to be safe, and to thrive.

“This funding supports projects that create real, tangible change — from helping families navigate a new diagnosis, to giving young people with disability the tools to lead and advocate for themselves.

“We’ve already seen the difference this program can make. Now, with another round of grants, we’re strengthening the foundations of advocacy in NSW and ensuring more people get the support they deserve — when and where they need it.”

Example Projects

A diverse range of projects have been funded in 2024–25, including initiatives to:

• Support children newly diagnosed with neuromuscular conditions — and their families and carers — to access information, specialist services, and peer support more easily.
• Provide DV-alert training for frontline workers, along with workshops to equip women with disability with the tools to recognise abuse
• Deliver civics and advocacy training for young people with disability, focusing on leadership, disability rights, and self-advocacy.
• Develop resources to empower Autistic Aboriginal children and their families throughout their education journey.

For more information on the Disability Advocacy Futures Program, visit:

https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/disability-advocacy-futures-program-2025