When a person with disability suddenly loses their regular support, the impact can be immediate and frightening. To make sure help is available when it is needed most, the NDIS After Hours Crisis Referral Service has been introduced as a national support line for urgent situations outside business hours.

This service is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience a crisis because of the sudden loss of their disability related supports. It is delivered by Marathon Health in partnership with the NDIA.

Who can use the service

The NDIS After Hours Crisis Referral Service is available when a participant over 18, or a participant under 18 living in Voluntary Out of Home Care, presents to emergency services due to a sudden loss of disability related supports. It operates during all after-hours periods, including late nights, early mornings, weekends, and national public holidays.

How it works

Approved referrers such as ambulance teams, public hospitals, police, acute mental health services, and state justice officers can contact the service through a dedicated 1800 number. Once a referral is made, the crisis team can help organise short-term support so the participant is safe until regular arrangements are restored.

What the service does not replace

The After Hours Crisis Referral Service does not take over the role of mainstream supports. State and territory governments still hold responsibility for housing, homelessness services, family violence supports, and other crisis programs. It also does not replace the usual NDIS escalation channels that run during business hours.

Participants and providers can still reach the National Contact Centre from 8am to 8pm on weekdays.

Why this matters

This update strengthens safety for NDIS participants across Australia. When disability related supports fall away without warning, the new service creates a direct path to immediate help. It makes sure no one is left without support during the most vulnerable moments.

As a provider that has been supporting participants since 2018, we welcome any step that improves safety, access, and reliable crisis response within the NDIS.

Source: NDIS