Frequently Asked Questions

Back to 2026 Disability Research Funding

Table of Contents

• About this funding
• Eligibility and who can apply
• Research themes and priorities
• What types of projects are funded
• Partnerships, collaboration and research teams
• Leadership, roles and responsibilities
• How to apply
• Project budget and payments
• Assessment and selection
• After you apply
• Help and support

Q: What are the grant amounts for each project?

A:   Funding in this round is available across three opportunities, each offering grants of up to $300,000 per project (excluding GST), for 12-month projects.

The available opportunities and funding pools are:

Safety of people with disability

⇒    Opportunity 1A (Open): Research projects focused on the topic of safety of people with disability. Teams can define their own research focus within this theme.

• Up to $300,000 per project | Total funding available: $2.4 million

⇒    Opportunity 1B (Targeted): Research projects focused on pathways to the elimination of restrictive practices for people with disability.

• Up to $300,000 per project | Total funding available: $600,000

Accessible and inclusive communities

⇒    Opportunity 2A (Open): Research projects focused on the topic of accessible and inclusive communities. Teams can define their own research focus within this theme.

• Up to $300,000 per project | Total funding available: $2 million

Across all opportunities, the total funding available for this round is up to $5 million (excluding GST). The NDRP will determine the final number of projects funded and the grant amounts awarded within the total funding pool.

Q: What is the difference between 'Open' and 'Targeted' opportunities?

A: Each opportunity focuses on one of two research themes: safety of people with disability (Opportunities 1A and 1B) or accessible and inclusive communities (Opportunity 2A).

The difference between the open and targeted opportunities is about how you have defined your research focus.

Open opportunities (1A and 2A): In these opportunities, you choose your own specific research focus within the broader theme.

Targeted opportunity (1B): Here the research focus is already defined, which is ‘Eliminating pathways to elimination of Restrictive Practices’. Your project must address this specific topic.

If your research fits the topic and you meet the eligibility requirements, you're welcome to apply.

Q: Can we submit more than one application?

A: No. You can only submit one application across all three opportunities.

This rule applies to:

• The Contact Person, and
• Every person listed on the Research Team.

This means if you're named as a Research Team member on one application, you can't be listed on any other NDRP 2026 Disability Research Funding application, even in a different role or for a different opportunity.

If you're involved in developing more than one potential project, you'll need to choose which one to submit before the application closes.

Occasional contributors, workshop participants or advisory group members who are not listed as Research Team members do not count toward the one-application rule. The restriction applies to people formally named as team members.

Q: Can an organisation appear on multiple applications if the people are different?

Yes, organisations may be involved in multiple applications, but individual people can only be named on one team.

Q: What are the key dates?

A: The key dates are:

• Applications open: Monday 23 February 2026
• Applications close: Monday 20 April 2026, 5:00pm AEST
• Notification about successful applicants: 30 May 2026
• Contract execution: 15 June 2026
• Projects must commence: 1 July 2026
• Projects must be completed: 30 June 2027

Q: What other funding opportunities will NDRP have in 2026?

A: We announce all NDRP funding opportunities on our website as they become available. Visit www.ndrp.org.au/research for the latest information, or subscribe to receive email updates when new rounds open.

Q: Is there flexibility around the 12 months project schedule or the ability to defer the funding?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: According to the Guidelines, projects must begin on 1st July 2026 and be completed by the 30 June 2027.

Only projects that finish within 12 months are eligible. If your project takes longer, it's not eligible.

Q: How do I know if I’m eligible?

A: Before you apply, check that you meet all these eligibility requirements:

Your project:

• Clearly aligns with one of the three funding opportunities (1A, 1B, or 2A)
• Is a research project (not only service delivery, training, or advocacy)
• Shows how it will contribute to policy or systems change
• Will primarily take place in Australia
• Requests $300,000 or less (excluding GST)
• Uses grant funds for approved purposes (see Budget and Payments of FAQs)

Your Administering Organisation:

• Has an ABN
• Is based in Australia
• Is not a government agency
• Has documented organisational and financial policies
• Has appropriate insurance (public liability and professional indemnity)
• Has a business or strategic plan
• Is compliant with relevant legislation including Working with Children requirements
• Is not named on the National Redress Scheme exclusion list.

Partner Organisation (you must have at least one):

• Is based in Australia

• Has named staff, members, or Board Directors as part of the Research Team.

Your Research Team members:

• Include people with disability in co-researcher or co-leader roles
• Can only be on ONE application for this funding round

• Can be from the Administering Organisation, Partner Organisation/s, or participate as individuals.

Your application needs to demonstrate:

• Leadership by and with people with disability

• That your project aligns with the NDRP Guiding Principles

For full details on eligibility requirements, see the Eligibility Guidelines.

Q: Can an individual or single organisation apply without any partners?

A: No. Applications must be submitted by a team made up of two or more organisations working in partnership.

This funding round is designed to support collaboration by bringing together different skills, knowledge and lived experience to strengthen disability-led research.

Q: Do we need to have applied for the 2025 Funding Round to be eligible?

A: No. This funding round is open to anyone who meets the Eligibility Criteria in the Grant Guidelines.

This includes:

• Teams who received 2025 funding
• Teams who applied for 2025 funding but were unsuccessful
• Teams who didn't apply for 2025 funding at all.

All applications are assessed on their merit against the selection criteria. Previous NDRP funding doesn't give you priority or guarantee success.

Q: Who is not eligible to apply?

A: Some projects are not eligible for this grant round. This includes projects that:

• Are not aligned to the NDRP Guiding Principles,
• Are not relevant to the research themes and objectives outlined in the Grant Guidelines, and
• Include activities that are primarily occurring outside of Australia.
• The Administering Organisation or Contact Person is not based in Australia,
• Any person or organisation involved in the application is under investigation for research misconduct or integrity issues, or subject to NDIS Scheme Act Banning Orders, or
• The applicant is an individual ororganisation not working in partnership with others.

Other reason an application might not be eligible:

• Any person or organisation involved in the application is under investigation for research misconduct or integrity issues, or subject to NDIS Scheme Act Banning Orders.
  

Q: What if my project takes longer than 12 months?

Only projects that finish within 12 months can get this funding. If your project takes longer, it's not eligible.

Q: Can research be conducted outside of Australia?
Question added 16 March 2026

A: NDRP funding is intended to support research that primarily takes place within Australia and is designed to inform Australian disability policy and practice.

As a result, projects that are primarily conducted outside Australia would not be eligible under this funding round.

Q: Are applications that involve research being conducted overseas by an Australian organisation eligible?
Question added 16 March 2026. 

A: NDRP's funding is limited to research primarily conducted within Australia, to inform Australian policy and practice.

Q: Do I need recent study or research experience to apply?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: Recent study or research experience is not required to be included in an application’s research team. We greatly value the expertise provided by lived experience of disability.

This funding round is designed to support collaboration by bringing together different skills, knowledge and lived experience to strengthen disability-led research.

Because of this, applications must be submitted by a team made up of two or more Partner Organisations.

Q: Can a sole trader operating a business on an ABN be a partner organisation?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: Partner organisations can include a wide range of organisations that contribute meaningfully to the research. The Guidelines do not prescribe a specific legal structure for partners, so yes, sole traders with ABNs are eligible to be a partner organisation.

Q: Can international researchers or organisations be involved?
Question added 2 April 2026.  

A: International collaborators can be involved as partners or team members where they add value. However, the Administering Organisation must be Australia-based, and the research must primarily take place in Australia and inform Australian policy and practice.

Q: Will certain topics be prioritised when it comes to receiving funding?

A: Yes. This funding round prioritises research that aligns with the NDRP Research Agenda and clearly demonstrates leadership by, and meaningful involvement of, people with disability.

This round focuses on two research themes:

• Safety of people with disability: including an open opportunity and a targeted opportunity which focus on pathways to the elimination of restrictive practices, and
• Accessible and inclusive communities: including projects that address barriers to participation across community, digital, economic and social life.

The NDRP Research Committee will give priority to projects that:

• Address recommendations or issues identified in the Disability Royal Commission
• Link to Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031, or
• Address areas of significant and immediate policy relevance.

All applications are assessed on their merit against the published Assessment Criteria.

Q: What kind of research fits the research topic 'safety of people with disability' (1A Open)?

A: Research that fits the safety theme explores how people with disability can live free from harm, violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It also examines what supports they need to participate fully in society.

This includes research about:

• Respectful relationships: how people are treated with dignity and have their voices heard in decision-making
• Accessible and inclusive systems: how policies, services, and spaces can remove barriers and promote safety
• Cultural safety: how to create environments that are spiritually, socially and emotionally safe
• Transparency and accountability: how systems can prevent harm and be held accountable

Your research might focus on one area or look at how these connect.

Q: What kind of research fits the targeted opportunity research topic, pathways to elimination of restrictive practices? (1B)

A: This opportunity focuses on research that will provide pathways to the elimination of restrictive practices in any setting including but not limited to:

• Disability services,
• Health,
• Education,
• Justice, and
• Housing.
  

Your research needs to:

• Identify clear pathways to eliminate (not just reduce),
• Strengthen rights-based rules and protections,
• Put lived experience at the centre of change, and
• Create practical guidance for governments, regulators and service providers.

Priority research areas include:

• How restrictive practices are defined, measured and reported,
• What data is missing and how to track these practices over time,
• Ethical, person-centred ways to measure harm and impact,
• Evidence-based alternatives that work, and
• Policy and system changes needed to end restrictive practices.

Q: What do you mean by 'restrictive practices'?

A: Restrictive practice is any practice or intervention that restricts the rights, autonomy or freedom of movement of a person with disability.

The use of restrictive practices is regulated by the NDIS Quality and Safety Commission because of the serious risks of harm associated with their use.

Restrictive practices can take many forms including:

• Physically holding someone or stopping them from moving,
• Using equipment or devices to stop someone from moving,
• Using medication to calm, sedate or control a person rather than treat a diagnosed medical condition,
• Making changes to the person’s environment to restrict their movement (e.g. locking doors or removing access to certain areas), or
• Separating people from others by placing them in a specific area or room.

Q: Why does NDRP focus on pathways to the elimination of restrictive practices, not just on restrictive practices themselves?

A: NDRP focuses on enabling the elimination of restrictive practices because they are linked to significant harm and human rights violations for people with disability. Research, lived experience, and inquiries in Australia have shown that restrictive practices can cause physical injury, psychological trauma, loss of trust, and long-term impacts on wellbeing.

While restrictive practices are regulated, regulation alone does not prevent their use or address the underlying systems, environments, and practices that lead to them.

NDRP’s focus is on supporting research that:

• Identifies alternatives to restrictive practices,
• Strengthens inclusive, rights-based supports,
• Builds capability in services and systems to prevent restrictive practices from being used in the first place, and
• Centres the leadership and expertise of people with disability in designing safer approaches.

By focusing on elimination, NDRP aims to support evidence that leads to real change in policy, practice, and culture, so people with disability can live with dignity, safety, and control over their own lives.

Q: What kind of research fits the Accessible and Inclusive communities theme (2A)?

A: This research looks at what stops people with disability from taking part in everyday life and how to fix it. This includes all people with disability, not just NDIS participants.

Your research will need to examine the systems, places, or practices that include or exclude people.

For example:

• Digital access: Websites, apps, online services, AI and data systems,
• Built environment: Housing, transport, public spaces and infrastructure,
• Economic participation: Income security, banking, cost of living with disability,
• Social connection: Belonging and participation, both online and in person, and
• Standards in practice: How well accessibility rules actually work in the real world.

Strong projects create evidence that people with disability have led or shaped. The findings should be useful for governments, councils, community groups or businesses to improve accessibility.

Your project needs to show clearly how the research will lead to policy or practice change. Projects can focus on people who face multiple barriers, such as First Nations people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, or people in regional and remote areas.

Projects that won't fit this theme: Projects focused only on delivering services, advocacy, or training without a clear research component and connection to policy change.

Q: If my application fits both the open opportunity, Safety of People with Disability (1A) and Pathways to Elimination of Restrictive Practices Targeted (1B), which should I apply for?

A: If your research project focuses on 'pathways to elimination of restrictive practices', you should apply for the targeted opportunity 1B.

If your research focus is safety of people with disability, but not on pathways to elimination of restrictive practices, then you should apply for the open opportunity 1A.

Q: Does the NDRP’s definition of ‘safety’ in the 2026 Grant Guidelines only include inter-personal and relational safety, or does it include broader safety issues (e.g. safety issues from environmental factors)?
Question added 16 March 2026. 

A: The NDRP definition of safety draws from the Disability Royal Commission and includes both freedom from harm and the broader systems, relationships and environments that support safety for people with disability. As outlined in both the 2026 Funding Guidelines and the NDRP Research Agenda, safety is intended to be understood broadly. It includes interpersonal and relational safety, as well as the systems, structures and practices that influence whether people with disability are safe and supported in different contexts.

This means that broader safety issues, such as those resulting from environmental factors, may be relevant where the proposal clearly connects to:

• the safety and wellbeing of people with disability
• the research priorities described in the NDRP Research Agenda
• and the assessment criteria outlined in the Funding Guidelines.

As with all applications, what matters most is that teams clearly explain:

• how the project aligns with the chosen funding theme
• the evidence gap the research will address

and the potential for policy, practice or systems impact. 

Q: Can the Accessible and Inclusive Communities opportunity (Opportunity 2A) include specific settings such as employment, education, health, housing or community services?
Question added 2 April 2026.  

A: Yes. Settings such as education, health, housing or community services may be appropriate where the research clearly addresses the broader theme.

Q: Does this funding round support exploratory or preparatory projects?

A: No. This funding round is focused on research that creates new knowledge and produces findings.

The NDRP’s 2025 Funding Round supported exploratory and preparatory work for projects that developed research plans or reviewed what's already known to find gaps in knowledge.

This round is different as it funds research that generates new evidence.

All projects must:

• Produce new knowledge or insights that we don't already have,
• Deliver research findings during the funded period, and
• Show how the research will contribute to policy or practice change.

Your project doesn't need to be a large-scale study or use complex methods, but it does need to create new evidence whether through:

• Primary research,
• Bringing together existing research in new ways, or
• Other approaches that add to what we currently know.

All funded projects will be required to deliver a plain language summary of findings and a research report with recommendations.

Q: Does our project need to collect data from people with disability as research participants?

A: No. Not all projects need to recruit research participants.

Some projects will collect new data from people through interviews, surveys, focus groups, or other methods. Other projects might involve policy analysis, reviewing existing research, or analysing data that already exists.

All projects must involve people with disability as active members of the Research Team whereby they are leading, making decisions, and shaping the work from start to finish.

Your application needs to clearly explain:

• How people with disability are involved in your Research Team,
• What roles and decision-making authority they have, and
• How they will shape the research throughout the project.

For information on remunerating co-researchers, advisors and participants with disability, see the Project budget and payments section below. 

Q: Why is collaboration important for this grant?

A: Collaboration strengthens the quality, relevance and impact of research. Working together allows teams to:

• Bring together different expertise to fully understand the issue,
• Develop clear and well-informed research questions, and
• Include a diverse mix of people, including people with disability, organisations and researchers.

Here’s what this means in practice:

• Individuals: Can join a Research Team and contribute lived experience, professional expertise or research skills.
• Organisations: Can apply as an Administering Organisation to manage the project and funding, or as a Partner Organisation with a defined role in the work.

Q: Who can be part of a research team?

A: This grant supports collaborative research teams that bring together roles including (but not limited to):

• People with disability,
• People with lived experience, including carers, family and kin,
• Researchers, and
• Project or policy officers.
  

Q: What key roles and expertise are needed in a research team?

A: All Research Teams need to include, at least:

• People with disability who have experience with the issue your project will address,
• People with research experience, and
• People and organisations who understand and influence policy and practice related to your topic.
  • This may include Disabled People's Organisations, Disability Representative Organisations, advocacy organisations, service providers, or other relevant organisations.

Q: Is my project still eligible if a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO) or a Disability Representative Organisation (DRO) isn’t involved?

A: Yes. A project can still be eligible without a DPO or DRO as a partner organisation.

This funding round expects projects to involve partnerships between two or more organisations and to demonstrate leadership by and with people with disability. While a DPO or DRO can be a strong partner, it is not required.

What matters is that:

• The partner organisations are the right fit for the work, and
• People with disability have meaningful involvement in leadership, governance and decision-making.

Your application needs to clearly explain why the partnership is appropriate and how it supports inclusive, disability-led research in practice.

Partner organisations must have a substantial role in the design and/or delivery of the project and a voice in decision-making (see Grant Guidelines for full partner organisation requirements).

Q: Can a community organisation be included as an Administrating Organisation or a Partner Organisation?

A: Yes.

The requirements include:

• Having named staff as members of the Research Team,
• Having a substantial role in design, delivery and decision-making, and
• Providing a letter of confirmation of their involvement (if they are a Partner Organisation).

See the Grant Guidelines for full eligibility criteria and Partner Organisation requirements.

Q: If the Administering Organisation is a university, can a Partner Organisation also be a university?

A: Yes. A university can partner with another university.

However, applications must still demonstrate leadership by and with people with disability, and show how the partnership supports inclusive, disability-led research in practice.

Where universities partner together, applications need to clearly explain:

• How people with disability are involved in leadership, governance and decision-making, and
• How the project builds research and leadership capacity beyond academic institutions alone.

Q: Do Research Team members need to provide letters of support from their organisations, or can they participate as individuals?

A: Research Team members can participate as individuals with no letter required.

There are two ways to be involved:

As an individual Research Team member: You join the team in your own right. Even if you work for an organisation, you don't need a letter from them.

As a Partner Organisation: If an organisation wants to be listed as a formal Partner Organisation in the application, they must:

• Provide a letter confirming their involvement, and
• Have named staff, members or Board Directors as part of the Research Team.

Your application needs to clearly describe each team member's role, whether they're participating as an individual or representing a Partner Organisation.

Q: Who is included under ‘lived experience’? Does this include family members and support networks?

A: It depends on the project.

Lived experience can include families, kin, carers and support networks, particularly for projects involving children or people who need support to participate.

All projects must directly involve people with disability as active members of the Research Team, leading decisions and shaping the work from start to finish.

Q: Where can I get more information about co-design or involvement of people with disability?

A: The NDRP website has a suite of comprehensive resources to help you understand and embed co-design in your research.

You can start here with:

• Embedding Co-design in your Research which explains what co-design is, why it matters, and what makes it work
• Our co-design series. This includes:
  • Planning for Purposeful Co-design,
  • Co-Design in Action,
  • How to Build a Co-Design Team, and
  • Co-Design in Your Application.
• You can also watch Co-design of Research 101 which is our online session available in English and Auslan.

Other helpful resources:

• The NDRP Guiding Principles: Our framework for disability-led research, and
• Our Partnerships Resource Pack: Practical tips, templates and checklists for building inclusive team.

Q: What does NDRP mean by “lived experience”? Does this include family members or carers?
Question added 16 March 2026

A: NDRP uses the term “lived experience” to refer primarily to people with disability themselves. Supporting research that is led by and with people with disability is central to NDRP’s purpose.

At the same time, NDRP recognises that family members, carers, allies, and community organisations often play important roles in disability research. They may contribute valuable knowledge, perspectives, and support in areas such as partnership, co-design, implementation, and impact.

Strong applications typically demonstrate:

• Meaningful leadership and participation of people with disability, particularly in shaping the research questions, design, governance, and interpretation of findings
• Respectful collaboration with families, carers, and allies where this strengthens the research and its impact.

In short, NDRP values the contributions of families and allies, while ensuring that the voices and leadership of people with disability remain central in research by and with people with disability.

Q: Can you please give some examples of how we can engage people with lived experience in the design and implementation of the research study?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: People with disability can be involved in many ways across the project. For example, helping shape the research questions, co-designing methods, advising on accessible recruitment and data collection, acting as co-researchers or peer interviewers, contributing to interpreting findings, and helping share results with communities. The key expectation is that people with lived experience have meaningful roles in shaping and delivering the research, not just being consulted occasionally.

Q: Is it possible for research team members to be added later if the project is successful in the grant funding?
Question added 30 March 2026.

A: Yes they can. We know teams evolve and change.

Q: We are grassroot organisation, how can we find a university who can do partnership research?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: Start with the APO Disability Research Collection. This is an open catalogue of research and is organised by dates and you can search by topic and author. Look to see who has been doing research in your area of interest on your topic. Also, if you reached out to a large advocacy organisation, all of which are listed on the Disability Gateway, they may be able to help.  

Q: Is there scope for the project to adjust if the co-design process requires an amendment to the initial plan?
Question added 30 March 2026.

A: Yes, there is flexibility and opportunity to refresh. We note on the application form that we expect you will need flexibility in how you work through the activities in your project plan. We understand things change, so we are very prepared for that. The role of the NDRP is to work with successful teams about adapting and working with that change.

Q: Is there a maximum number of team members we can list?
Question added 30 March 2026.

A: There is not a maximum number, however, all team members listed must provide a meaningful contribution to the project. This includes people who provide a significant contribution to the research project, through their intellectual contribution and/or their leadership of activities that are part of the project.

Q: Can a group of individuals (not part of organisations) be included as partners along with one main organisation?
Question added 9 April 2026. 

A: Partner organisations must be organisations, not individuals. However, individuals, including people with disability, can be included as members of the Research Team with clearly defined roles.

Q: If you don't have two organisations confirmed yet, can you still apply?
Question added 9 April 2026. 

A: Applications will need at least two organisations confirmed on the submitted application to be eligible.

Q: How many research team members can be included in one application?
Question added 9 April 2026.  

A: There is no maximum number, but the expectation is that each team member listed has a substantive role that is described.

Q: Can additional partner organisations come on board later in the project?
Question added 9 April 2026.   

A: For successful teams, we always expect changes in team and partners.

Q: We are familiar with some of our potential partner organisations, but is there a list of partner organisations on your website?
Question added 9 April 2026

A: If you head to this page - https://www.ndrp.org.au/resources/evidence-to-action , check out the Oct 2025 event for a wealth of resources on partnerships.

Q: How will leadership work in funded projects?

A: Funded projects are expected to be led by and with people with disability, with leadership shared across the Research Team rather than centred in a single role. Instead of nominating one person as the project leader, applications need to clearly describe:

• How leadership is shared across the team,
• Who is responsible for leading different parts of the work,
• How people with disability are involved in leadership, governance and key decisions, and
• How responsibility and decision-making are managed in practice.

Each application must nominate an Administering Organisation and a Contact Person.

What matters most is that the application demonstrates clear, inclusive leadership and the capacity to deliver the project well.

Q: What is the role of the Administering Organisation?

A: The Administering Organisation is the organisation that applies for the funding and enters into the funding agreement with the NDRP.

The Administering Organisation is responsible for:

• Submitting the application,
• Receiving and managing grant funds,
• Meeting reporting requirements, and
• Supporting safe, ethical and timely delivery of the project.

The Administering Organisation does not need to control the research content or decision-making. Leadership and decision-making can be shared across organisations and team members, including people with disability.

Any eligible organisation with an ABN can take on this role, except government agencies. This includes universities, community organisations, not-for-profit organisations, disability or First Nations-led organisations, and research institutes that can manage the grant and support the project.

Q: What is the role of the Contact Person?

A: The Contact Person must be from the Administering Organisation and is the main point of communication between the NDRP and the Research Team.

Their role is to:

• Receive and respond to NDRP communications,
• Submit the application on behalf of the Research Team,
• Coordinate information and requests within the team, and
• Act as the administrative contact for the application and funded project.

The Contact Person does not need to be the most senior person on the team and does not hold decision-making authority by default. They may also be a Research Team member but this is not required.

The Contact Person role is administrative and practical. It does not define who leads the research.

Q: Will individual leadership roles of people with disability and other researchers affect how my application is assessed?

A: Applications are not assessed based on titles or individual positions. What matters is how leadership, decision-making and power are shared with people with disability across the project.

Assessment Criterion 3, “Leadership and inclusion of people with disability”, is weighted at 25% of the application’s overall score.

Strong applications clearly show that people with disability:

• Are involved in leadership and key decisions,
• Shape the research questions, methods and outcomes,
• Are supported and resourced to contribute their expertise,
• Have clear roles and responsibilities in governance, design and delivery of the research, and
• Contribute in ways that match their skills, knowledge and lived experience.

True leadership isn't about titles or roles but is instead about the collective strength of teams and partnerships. This is where inclusion can positively shape the practice of shared leadership across each project.

Q: Can the Research Team be led by Early Career Researchers?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: The NDRP 2026 Disability Research Funding application is designed differently from traditional ways of listing a Research Team that focus on seniority or limited definitions of ‘expertise’, so some familiar language and structures don't apply here.

We don't use the role of "Lead Investigator." The Contact Person role is administrative and practical and does not define who leads the research.

Applications are also not assessed based on individual titles, career stage, or seniority. What matters is the collective strength of your team and how leadership and decision-making are genuinely shared with people with disability across the project.

Q: What are the requirements for Partner Organisations?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: According to the Grant Guidelines, Partner Organisations must:

• have a specific and material role or responsibility as part of the project
• have named staff, members or Board directors with specific roles as part of the Research Team
• have a substantial role in the design and/or delivery of the project, and voice in the decision-making process (raising awareness, participating in consultations or workshops, or ‘in-kind’ contributions do not meet the threshold for a Partner Organisation)
• provide letters of confirmation they have agreed to be involved as described in the grant application and that the research is aligned to their organisation’s objectives.
• have insurances, including public liability insurance and professional indemnity, for any activities they will be overseeing
• comply with all relevant state/territory and Australian legislation and standards relevant to the project, including working with children requirements
• not be named on the “Institutions that have not joined or signified their intent to join the Scheme” list of the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse (www.nationalredress.gov.au).

Q: How much responsibility can partner organisations have?
Question added 30 March 2026.

A: A partner organisation should have a clear and material role in the design or delivery of the project.

Q: Does the project require a formal university partnership, or can a disability-led organisation lead the research where it has qualified researchers with lived experience and is collaborating with another lived experience organisation?
Question added 9 April 2026.

A: Project applications do not require a formal university partnership, but please note that all funded projects involving human participants must obtain approval, or a written exemption, from a recognised Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) before commencing any data collection. While ethics approval is not required at the time of application, applicants should briefly outline their proposed ethics approach in the proposal. All projects must comply with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research.

Q: How should I prepare my application?

A: Strong applications start with thinking together.

Before you begin, allow time for collaboration and planning. Applications close on 20 April 2026 at 5 pm AEST (Melbourne/Sydney/Canberra Time zone).  Make sure you start thinking about your application early.

Step 1: Prepare together

Before drafting your application, take time to discuss:

• Who needs to be involved: Whose knowledge, experience or leadership is essential?
• The purpose: What issue or opportunity is this project responding to?
• How you’ll work together: How will power, decision-making and responsibility be shared?

These conversations help build a solid foundation for collaborative, disability-led research.

Step 2: Sense-check the project

Before writing, work through these questions as a team:

• Why does this matter now?
• What evidence, experience or insight points to this issue?
• What is realistic within a project of up to 12 months?
• What would success look like, and how would you know?

A strong application reflects shared understanding, not just polished language.

Step 3: Gather what you need

Collect the information required to complete the application, including details from team members and partner organisations.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Applications are submitted online through the NDRP grant portal during the application period.

To apply:

• Read the Grant Guidelines
• Fill out and submit the online application form through SmartyGrants at: https://ndrp.smartygrants.com.au/2026-Disability-Research-Funding
• Make sure you include all the required information.

Check that your application is complete and correct.

Q: Can we upload a list of references to support our claims?

A: Yes, you can upload a list of references as a separate text document of no more than 2 pages, which will not count towards the word limits for responses. You don't need formal citation formatting. Uploading a list of reference is optional.

You can also include brief references within your responses if you need to. The application process is designed to be clear, accessible, and fair for all types of teams.

What matters most is that your application is clear, well-reasoned and easy to follow.

Q: Can the NDRP extend the application closing date?

A: No. The closing date won't be extended.

However, if a valid technical issue stops you from submitting your application on time, contact the NDRP immediately at info@ndrp.org.au You'll need to clearly explain what happened.

We encourage you to start your application early to allow time for meaningful co-design and to avoid last-minute technical problems.

Q: Can images, tables, or graphs be included in the application?
Question added 16 March 2026. 

A: The application form itself requires responses to be entered as plain text.

Where the form allows a project plan upload, this should also be submitted as a plain text document. Images, graphs, or other visual elements are not required and may not be reviewed as part of the assessment.

Applicants should focus on providing clear written descriptions of the proposed research, its methods, partnerships, and intended impact.

Q: Is there a template or guide for what information is needed from the Partner Organisations for the letter of confirmation?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: There is not a fixed template for partner confirmation letters. However, the letter should clearly confirm that the organisation supports the project and agrees to participate as a partner, and briefly describe their role or contribution to the research. This might include activities such as co-design, providing expertise, supporting recruitment, or helping translate findings into policy or practice.

Q: Do people with disability need to be involved before the application or can the application outline how people with disability will participate?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: NDRP funding is designed to support disability-led research. Research funded by the NDRP must reflect our commitment to leadership by people with disability and to genuine collaboration across community, academic, and policy sectors. The NDRP will only fund projects that clearly demonstrate that research activities and governance are led by and with people with disability at all stages of the project.

Q: Does Ethics approval need to obtained before the application or before the project starts?
Question added 2 April 2026.  

A: Ethics approval is not required before applying or before projects commence. Applicants should include realistic time to obtain Ethics approval in their application’s project plan.

Q: What if my project fits more than one opportunity?
Question added 2 April 2026. 

A: Applicants should choose the opportunity that best aligns with the primary focus and intended impact of the project. Each application can only be submitted to one opportunity.

Q: Does co-design need to be completed before applying, or can it be part of the project?
Question added 2 April 2026.  

A: Co-design is expected to be an ongoing part of the project. Applications should demonstrate a clear commitment to co-design, including how people with disability will be involved in shaping the research, refining methods, questions, and outputs.

Q: What if ethics approval takes time, especially for projects working with children and young people?
Question added 9 April 2026.   

A: Ethics processes can be built into the project timeline. Projects should be scoped so that ethics approval and the research activities can be completed within the 12-month period. Teams are encouraged to plan for this early and allow sufficient time in their project schedule.

Q: Can we run a pilot program in the project to inform the research study?
Question added on 9 April 2026.

A: Pilot activities can be included where they are clearly part of the research design and help generate evidence. The key is that they are research-focused, time-limited, and achievable within the 12-month project period, rather than ongoing service delivery.

Q: For an application with an intellectual disability focus, should the plain English sections of the application be targeted at a person with intellectual disability being able to read these? Do we have the option to include an Easy English summary attachment?
Question added on 9 April 2026.

A: For applications that focus on intellectual disability, the Plain English section should be written in clear, accessible language that can be easily understood by a wide audience, including people with intellectual disability. This means avoiding jargon, technical terms and acronyms wherever possible, and explaining ideas in a straightforward way. The application form asks for responses to be provided directly in the form fields, and there is not an option to include additional attachments such as an Easy English summary. Applicants should therefore focus on writing the Plain English response in a way that is clear, inclusive and accessible to the audiences who may review or engage with the project.

Q: Can a Research Team member be paid a salary from this grant?

A: Yes, in some cases.

If a Research Team member is already being paid by their employer to do this work, you can't use grant funds to pay them. Instead, include their time as an in-kind contribution in your budget.

However, some Research Team members may need grant funding for their salary. For example:

• They work part-time or casually,
• They're on a short-term contract,
• They have gaps between other grants or funding, or
• They're being hired specifically for this project.

Any salary you include in your budget must be reasonable for the work they'll do on this project - not just based on their general expertise or qualifications.

In all cases, your application should clearly explain how payment has been calculated and why it is appropriate for the role.

Q: Can we include GST in the project budget?

A: No. Don’t include GST in your project budget.

If you're awarded funding, GST will be paid to the Administering Organisation on top of the grant amount, where applicable.

Q: How do we calculate payment for people involved in co-design?

A: There is no single rate for people involved in co-design. Instead, payment needs to be based on the nature of the role, the time and responsibilities involved, and what’s a reasonable rate of pay for the work being done.

Some people, including people with disability, may contribute in different ways across a project and may bring lived experience, professional skills, or both.

Your budget will reflect the specific role they are undertaking, not just their identity or background. If someone is employed in a formal role (for example, as a research assistant or project officer), an appropriate award or employment rate can be used. 

Find budgeting worksheets and other resources in the Partnerships Pack.

Q: Can investigator salary or teaching buy-out be included in the project budget?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: NDRP funding may be used to pay salaries or wages for team members who are directly undertaking work on the project, such as research assistants, project coordinators, lived experience co-researchers, or other staff contributing to project delivery.

However, teaching buy-out or teaching relief for university staff is not eligible under this funding round.

Teaching relief is considered part of a university’s internal workload management and falls under the Grant Guidelines category of “university or organisational administrative, infrastructure or overhead charges,” which are not eligible expenses.

This means:

• Funding can be used to employ staff to undertake project work (for example research assistants, project staff, or co-researchers).
• Funding cannot be used to cover teaching relief or workload buy-outs for existing academic staff.

Universities may still choose to support investigator time as an in-kind contribution to the project where this aligns with their internal research support arrangements.

Applicants should ensure that all budget items are clearly linked to project activities and comply with the eligible and ineligible cost categories in the Grant Guidelines.

Q: Can family members be paid to provide support to a person with disability participating in the research?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: Yes, where this support is necessary to enable a person with disability to participate in the research.

NDRP funding may be used to cover reasonable access and participation supports that enable people with disability to contribute to the research. In some cases, this may include payment to a family member or trusted support person where they are providing support that enables participation.

For example, this may include assistance with communication, travel, personal support, or other practical supports required for a person with disability to engage in the research.

Where this occurs:

• the role and support being provided should be clearly described in the budget
• the payment should be reasonable and proportionate to the support provided
• and the arrangement should be transparent and appropriate for the research context.

Applicants should ensure these costs are directly linked to enabling participation in the research and are consistent with the eligible cost categories outlined in the Grant Guidelines.

Q: Can you provide the guidance on appropriate renumeration payments for partners and participants?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: The NDRP Resource Pack is a practical toolkit. It helps researchers build respectful, fair, and inclusive partnerships with advocacy organisations, with tips, checklists, and templates you can use straight away.

Q: Can co-researchers or participants with disability be paid?
Question added 2 April 2026.  

A: Yes. Grant funding can and should be used to appropriately remunerate people with disability for their time and expertise, including co-researchers, advisors, and participants, in line with ethical and organisational requirements. This may include wages, sitting fees, or gift cards depending on the context.

Q: How are funds distributed across multiple partner organisations?
Question added 2 April 2026. 

A: Funding is provided to the Administering Organisation, which is responsible for managing and distributing funds to project partners in line with agreed roles and budgets.

Q: While capital expenses cannot be included, is it possible to include small amounts (e.g. less than $1k) in the budget for the purchase of software research analysis tools (e.g. software that enhances accessibility)?
Question added 9 April 2026.  

A: Small, project-specific software costs can be included where they are directly required for the research and reasonable in scale. These need to be clearly justified in the budget as supporting project delivery (for example, analysis or accessibility).

Q: Should the funding be allocated to the partner organisation as well?
Question added 9 April 2026.   

A: Funding may be allocated to partner organisations where they have a clear and active role in delivering the project. Budgets need to reflect who is doing the work and include costs that are directly related to project activities.

Q: I appreciate that the funding is for a 12-month period. If we are seeking to run a multi-year project (with annual outputs/outcomes), should we note this in the project application?
Question added 9 April 2026.  

A: While you can note that the proposed project is part of a larger program of work, the proposed project is expected to be delivered within a 12-month timeframe, including core activities and key deliverables. Teams need to scope their project to ensure it's realistic and achievable within that period.

Q: Do we need to submit quotes for future costs? For example, for travel costs, do we need to provide quotes?
Question added 9 April 2026.

A: No. You do not need to provide quotes. Costs should be reasonable, clearly estimated, and justified in the budget based on the planned project activities.

Q: How are applications assessed?

A: Independent reviewers look at all eligible applications using five criteria.

The five assessment criteria are:

• Relevance to the topic and potential for policy and system impact (20%): How well your research addresses the funding opportunity and can influence policy, practice or programs.
• Research quality & methods (30%): The quality and appropriateness of your research design and methods.
  
  
• Leadership and inclusion of people with disability (25%): How people with disability lead and participate in the research, with evidence of power-sharing and shared decision-making.
  
  
• Capacity and resources to deliver the project (15%): Whether your team and organisations have the skills, knowledge, experience and resources to deliver the project successfully.
  
  
• Risk management and value for money (10%): How you'll manage risks and make effective use of the funding.

How scoring works

Reviewers score each criterion from 5 (Outstanding) to 1 (Weak).

These scores are weighted according to the percentages above to calculate a final score of 100.

Q: What if my project takes longer than 12 months?

A: Only projects that finish within 12 months can receive this funding. If your project does take longer, it will not be eligible.

Q: What will I need to deliver if my project is funded?

A: All funded projects need to share their work at key stages.

Halfway through the project:

• A brief update on how the project is going, and
• A short summary (in plain language) about what you’re finding.

When your project finishes:

• A summary of your findings written in plain language, showing what they mean for policy and practice, and
• A final research report with your findings, recommendations, and what you learned about doing inclusive research.

For the community:

• Content for the NDRP Evidence to Action series (we'll work with you on what this looks like), and
• Accessible versions of your findings. This might include Easy Read summaries, videos in Auslan, or other formats that work for your audience.

All reports and summaries need to be written in plain language so people outside academia can understand and use them.

The NDRP will publish your final research report (you'll still be credited as the authors).

You'll also be invited to:

• Share your findings with other NDRP-funded research teams, and
• Participate in events where researchers learn from each other.
  

Q: What does policy and practice impact look like for a research project?
Question added 2 April 2026

A: Projects should demonstrate how the research will inform or influence real-world policy, systems, or practice. This may include generating actionable evidence, engaging decision-makers, or producing outputs that can be readily used beyond academia.

Q: How will I know if I’m successful?

A: All applicants will be notified by email through SmartyGrants by 30 May 2026.

If you're successful:

• You'll receive an email confirming your project has been funded,
• You'll need to sign a Research Funding Agreement with the NDRP,
• Funding will begin once the agreement is signed, and
• Your contract will be executed by 15 June 2026.

If you're unsuccessful:

• You'll receive an email with the outcome, and
• The NDRP will provide summary feedback on your application.

All applicants will hear about the outcome - you won't be left wondering.

Q: Can I get any feedback on my application after it is assessed?

A: Yes. All applicants will receive written feedback after the assessment round closes. This includes both successful and unsuccessful applications.

Q: Will this grant opportunity be offered again in 2027 and beyond?
Question added 30 March 2026. 

A: Our current funding agreement is until July 2027. At this time, we cannot comment on funding beyond this.

Q: If available in 2027, is it likely that the grant criteria will remain largely the same/similar for 2027?
Question added 9 April 2026.

A: If funding opportunities are available in 2027, the approach to research is likely to remain the same, but the topics and nature of opportunities may change.

Q: What should I do if I still have questions about the grant?

A: There are several ways to get help via the NDRP:

• Phone: 03 9000 3813
• SMS only: 0485 931 168
• Email: info@ndrp.org.au

Register for an information session.

Visit www.ndrp.org.au/research for the latest information, or subscribe to receive email updates when new rounds open.

Q: Can we meet with you to discuss our application?
Question added 16 March 2026.

A: To ensure fairness and probity for all applicants, the NDRP team is not able to meet individually with prospective applicants to discuss specific proposals.

If you have questions about the funding opportunity, we encourage you to:

• review the Grant Guidelines and FAQs available on the NDRP website, and
• attend one of the scheduled Q&A sessions, where applicants can ask questions about the application process and requirements. These sessions are designed to provide the same information and support to all applicants.

If you have a specific clarification question about the Grant Guidelines, you are also welcome to email your question to info@ndrp.org.au.

Q: Do I have to wait for a Q&A drop-in session to ask a question?
Question added 16 March 2026. 

A: No, you do not have to wait. If you have a specific question about the Grant Guidelines, you are welcome to email your question to info@ndrp.org.au, but please consult the Grant Guidelines and FAQs first to check if your question has already been answered.