When a participant aged 18 and over faces a disruption in their disability-related supports and requires assistance from emergency services outside regular business hours, the NDIS After Hours Crisis Referral Service (AHCRS) stands ready to help.

“Outside business hours” refers to the times after 5 pm to 9 am on weekdays (Monday to Friday), as well as during weekends and public holidays.

Our service is exclusively available to “approved referrers,” which includes esteemed emergency service organizations like ambulance services, both public and private hospitals, law enforcement agencies, acute state mental health services, and state justice officers. Every state and territory government has collaborated closely with the NDIA to identify and designate these approved referrers within their respective regions.

The AHCRS has established a dedicated 1800 number that has been disseminated to all relevant emergency services in every state and territory across Australia. This ensures that qualified referrers have immediate access to the support they need, whenever it’s required.

Our exceptional service is administered by Marathon Health on behalf of the NDIA. For matters requiring attention during regular business hours, existing crisis and escalation protocols remain in place. You can reach out to the NDIS National Contact Centre at 1800 800 110 or contact a local NDIS representative for assistance.

It’s important to note that the AHCRS is not a replacement for the vital responsibilities held by state and territory mainstream or emergency services. These government entities remain committed to ensuring accessibility to mainstream services for individuals with disabilities. This encompasses services such as housing and homelessness support, assistance for victims of family violence, and various other mainstream crisis services.

In situations where you are experiencing an immediate crisis related to your disability-related supports, or your health and well-being are at risk, please don’t hesitate to contact emergency services by dialling 000 for immediate assistance. Your safety and well-being are of paramount importance to us.