Strengthening First Nations Participation and Choice in the NDIS
The Australian Government is reaffirming its commitment to an NDIS that gives First Nations participants greater choice, control, and access to supports that reflect culture, community, and individual goals.
Although First Nations people make up around 8% of NDIS participants, the proportion of First Nations-owned disability providers is far smaller. Closing this gap matters: when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge, lived experience, and leadership are embedded in provider organisations, outcomes improve for participants, families, and communities.
A new strategy now open for feedback
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has begun consultation on the First Nations Market and Sector Development Strategy. The strategy aims to:
- Increase the number of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and Aboriginal Business Enterprises delivering NDIS services.
- Improve local access so First Nations participants can receive supports in, or close to, their own communities.
- Strengthen choice and control, leading to better life outcomes for First Nations participants.
This work supports the priorities set out in the NDIS First Nations Strategy 2025–2030, released in January.
How to get involved
First Nations and non-Indigenous providers, participants, and the broader disability community are invited to share their views. A discussion paper is available on NDIS Engage, and providers can register interest to attend consultation roundtables scheduled across the country in November and December.
Why this matters
Government leaders emphasise that supports designed around the needs of First Nations people—delivered by providers who understand culture and community—are essential to a fair and effective NDIS. First Nations providers bring trust, connection, and cultural safety, helping people access the right support in the right way.
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