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Department of Community Services • Policy Briefing

Disability Support Services Changes

Updates to application processes and new support programs

Streamlined application processes for disability support services with new wraparound programs to better serve people with disabilities and their families.

Key Changes

Simplified online application process with accessibility improvements
New family support programs for carers and siblings
Enhanced employment pathways and job coaching services
Increased funding for assistive technology

Implementation Timeline

Public consultation open Now
Disability sector forums August 10
Consultation closes August 30
Changes take effect October 1

Help us improve disability support services by sharing your experiences and suggestions

All Ways to Participate

Online Survey

Complete our accessible survey with Easy Read options

Start Survey

Phone Consultation

Speak with our disability support team

Call Now

Email Feedback

Send written feedback or questions

Send Email

What happens next?

  • • All feedback is reviewed by our policy team
  • • Key themes are incorporated into the final policy
  • • A summary of feedback received will be published
  • • The final policy will be available on October 1, 2025

These changes will make it easier for people with disabilities to access the support they need, while expanding services for families and carers.

What's Changing

The updated system will feature:

  • A new online portal designed with accessibility at its core
  • Faster processing times for applications and reviews
  • More support options for families and carers
  • Better coordination between different service providers

Investment Details

  • Total Investment: $280M over 3 years
  • People Supported: 35,000+ individuals and families
  • New Programs: 8 additional support services
  • Processing Improvement: 40% faster application handling

Accessibility First

Every aspect of these changes has been designed with accessibility in mind:

  • Screen reader compatible online forms
  • Easy Read versions of all documents
  • Multiple ways to provide feedback
  • Dedicated accessibility support team

Full Service Update

Complete overview of all service changes

Best for: All stakeholders
PDF, 32 pages

Easy Read Summary

Simple language overview with pictures

Best for: People with disability
PDF, 8 pages

Carer Support Guide

New support options for families

Best for: Families and carers
PDF, 16 pages

Accessibility Commitment

  • • WCAG 2.1 AA compliant
  • • Screen reader optimized
  • • Multiple accessible formats
  • • Mobile-first design

Page Information

Last updated: July 8, 2025

Full Accessibility Statement

Department

Australian Government
Department of Community Services

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