People with disability
The disability population is diverse. It encompasses people with varying types and levels of disability across all socioeconomic and demographic groups.
Knowing how many people in Australia have disability, and their characteristics, can improve our understanding of how the experiences of people with disability vary. It also helps to plan and provide the supports, services and communities that enable people with disability to participate fully in all aspects of life.
Disability prevalence
In 2018, an estimated 1 in 6 (18%) people in Australia had disability (about 4.4 million people).
Severe or profound disability
In 2018, 1 in 3 (32%) people with disability had severe or profound disability (about 1.4 million).
Assistance needs
In 2018, 1 in 3 (30%) people with disability living in households needed help with health care.
Disability and life expectancy – boys
Boys born in 2018 can expect to live 81 years on average, including 17 years (21%) with some level of disability.
Disability and life expectancy – girls
Girls born in 2018 can expect to live 85 years on average, including 19 years (22%) with some level of disability.
Parenting responsibilities
In 2021, over half (57%) people with disability aged 35–44 had parenting responsibilities.