Launch of 2026 Disability Research Funding

Thursday 19 February 2026 | Aerial Function Centre, University of Technology Sydney

Please join us for an important milestone in Australian disability research. The National Disability Research Partnership (NDRP) is launching our 2026 Disability Research Funding, for disability-led research focused on Safety of people with Disability and Accessible and Inclusive Communities.

What we're launching

We're announcing three initiatives that, together, will strengthen disability-led research at every level.

• 2026 Disability Research Funding: Research that reflects what matters to our community.

Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister will launch the NDRP’s 2026 Disability Research Funding Round, for research led by and with people with disability. The Minister will announce the significant funding available in 2026 for research focusing on Safety of People with Disability, and Accessible and Inclusive Communities.

• Disability Research Leadership Program: Investing in the next generation of disability researchers.

Meet Australia's first cohort of emerging disability research leaders, each receiving $30,000 in flexible, accessible supports to build their research careers.

• Citizen Research Essentials: Because people with disability should have the tools to shape research.

Learn about the free, accessible micro-credential developed with Griffith University, sponsored by the NDRP, to enable people with disability to contribute directly to research co-design and creation.

Accessibility

Whether you join us in person or online, we've designed this event to be as accessible and welcoming as possible. Our event includes:

• Live captioning
• Auslan interpreting
• Large-print and Easy English event summaries
• Reserved seating for vision and hearing access needs
• Quiet room available
• Accessible toilets and signage.

Need specific support? Please let us know in the registration form below.

Program highlights

• Welcome to Country
• Key announcements and partnership launches
• Keynote address from Professor Scott Avery on supporting the next generation of First Nations disability research and researchers
• Celebrate new research initiatives and the people leading them
• Time for community questions
• Opportunities to connect with others over light refreshments.

This is research by and with people with disability, for people with disability.

The 2026 funding program is accessible, supportive, and designed for equitable partnerships. Whether you're a researcher, policy maker, advocate, or leading through lived experience, we really want you there. This is about building the future of disability research together.

Questions or access needs?

Please get in touch at info@ndrp.org.au