Parents with disability raise children in many different ways across all stages of family life. Disability can be physical, mental, cognitive or sensory, and its impact can change over time. 

Parenting with a disability may involve extra planning, support or adjustments, but it does not define your ability to parent. Support is available to help you care for your family in ways that work for you. 

How disability can affect parenting 

Disability may shape parenting in different ways, depending on individual circumstances. This can include: 

• Managing energy, health or pain alongside daily parenting tasks 
• Managing appointments, treatments, or days when your energy or ability changes 
• Finding accessible ways to care for babies, children or teenagers 
• Balancing independence with asking for help when needed 
• Managing emotional wellbeing alongside parenting responsibilities 

Every family’s experience is different, and the kind of support that helps may change over time. 

Strengths-based parenting 

Many parents with disability develop strong problem-solving skills, flexibility and resilience. Children can benefit from growing up in families where: 

• Connection, care and understanding are prioritised 
• Support networks are part of everyday life 
• Differences are accepted and supported 
• Help-seeking is seen as a strength 

Parenting with disability is about finding what works, not fitting a single model of parenting. 

Parenting in veteran families 

For veterans and families of veterans, disability may be related to service, injury, illness or mental health. Parenting often happens alongside other life changes, such as transition from Defence, changes in work, or additional caring responsibilities. 

Support that understands veteran and family experiences can help parents feel more confident, connected and less alone as they care for their children. 

Helpful supports 

Support for parents with disability may include: 

• Practical help with daily tasks or routines 
• Disability support services that assist with independence 
• Parenting, family or community supports 
• Emotional or mental health support 
• Support for children and young people within the family 
• Help finding and using services, and planning ahead 

Support needs can change across different life stages, from early parenting to adolescence and beyond. 

Asking for help 

Seeking support does not mean you’re not coping. It means you’re doing what you can to care for your family’s wellbeing. Help is there to work alongside you, not replace your role as a parent. 

Getting support 

If you’re parenting with a disability, you might consider: 

• Talking with a health or wellbeing professional about your needs 
• Looking into disability and parenting supports that may help 
• Connecting with family, peer or community supports 
• Asking for help navigating available services 

Parenting with a disability can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone. Support is available to help you and your family feel more supported and connected. 

Government support and services 

Government services can help with information, support and financial assistance. Some are open to everyone, while others depend on your needs and eligibility. 

• Disability Gateway for information about disability supports, services and pathways to help 
• NDIS for eligible funded supports that can help with disability-related needs and daily life 
• Services Australia for family payments, income support and other practical help you may be eligible for 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs for eligible health, wellbeing, practical and family support related to service 
• Open Arms for free counselling and support for veterans, partners, families and children 

Not sure where to start? A health professional, support worker or family support service may be able to help you work out what feels right for you and your family.