Applications are now open for the NDRP’s first Commissioned Research Project. This project will focus on improving transitions to careers for young people with disability.
We’re seeking disability-led research teams to explore the systems and organisational factors that affect young NDIS participants who receive employment assistance supports. The research will look at what helps or limits their ability to make informed choices about their careers and get the support they need.
We will fund three research teams. Each opportunity focuses on a different group of young NDIS participants (aged 15–25) who receive employment assistance supports:
- OPPORTUNITY 1: Broad focus. Covers all population groups who receive support (noting that Autistic young people and young people with intellectual disability are two primary recipient groups).
- OPPORTUNITY 2: First Nations focus. Specifically focuses on younger Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander NDIS participants.
- OPPORTUNITY 3: Complex support or communication needs focus.Focuses on participants with complex support or communication needs (for example, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users, Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing young people)
Opportunities 2 and 3 may also include NDIS participants aged 15–25 who don’t currently have employment assistance supports, but who are interested in employment.
Each project will receive $190,000 over a 12-month duration.
What we’re looking for
- Disability leadership in named, paid roles.
- Policy expertise and systems change experience.
- Multi-organisational partnerships.
- Inclusive research methods and accessible approaches.
Key dates
Applications close: 21 November 2025, 5:00pm AEDT
Funding decisions: Early February 2026
Projects start: March 2026
