State of the disability sector report 2025

This report highlights the ongoing financial pressures, policy uncertainty and operational challenges facing disability service providers. The survey reveals that nearly half of providers reported a financial loss and most cannot sustain services at current prices. Providers are also carrying the burden of unfunded supports, essential activities like crisis response and system navigation, at significant cost and without reimbursement.

The report warns that without urgent structural adjustment, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) risks losing the quality providers it relies on. It calls for genuine market stewardship from governments, including sustainable pricing and targeted support, to secure the future of disability support services. 

Key findings

• Nearly half of providers reported a financial loss in 2024–25.
• 77% of providers delivered unfunded services last year, at an average cost of almost $500,000 per provider.
• The number of providers entering administration, scaling back or closing their NDIS services has increased.
• 81% of respondents feel the NDIA is not working well with providers.
• 92% of providers cite policy uncertainty.
• 82% of supported employment providers reported a worsening financial outlook.