10/02/2026
When we talk about disability support, we often focus on appointments or services.
But there’s a whole layer of invisible work happening behind the scenes.
Families often call this the hidden admin.
It’s the constant coordination, paperwork, follow-ups, planning, explaining, negotiating and advocating that happens before a child arrives at school, before sport, before a community activity.
This invisible load impacts:
• Energy
• Mental health
• Finances
• Participation
• Family wellbeing
This is why understanding disability as a culture matters - and why moving from access to belonging is essential.
Because real inclusion doesn’t add to the load - it reduces it.
Belonging anticipates needs. It doesn’t wait for families to ask.
Learn more about how you can support families to thive in communities
https://www.inclusivemovement.com.au/disability-cultural-awareness-training
Image descriptions:
Slide 1: Cover image titled “The Hidden Admin of Living with Disability,” showing a family with a child using a wheelchair, surrounded by illustrations of paperwork and calendars.
Slide 2: Text slide explaining that disability support includes a constant layer of invisible work called “hidden admin.”
Slide 3: Slide about appointment coordination, including therapies, reviews, funding check-ins, scheduling, transport, documentation and time off work.
Slide 4: Slide about forms and paperwork such as funding applications, care plans, school adjustments and repeated information requests.
Slide 5: Slide about equipment management, including wheelchairs, AAC devices, charging, repairs, replacements and troubleshooting.
Slide 6: Slide about transport logistics, noting advance bookings, precise timing, backup plans, extra costs and communication with drivers.
Slide 7: Slide about access negotiation, including requesting adjustments, explaining needs repeatedly and following up on promises.
Slide 8: Slide about advocacy and education, including teaching staff, attending meetings, writing letters and challenging discrimination.
Slide 9: Slide explaining the impact of hidden admin on energy, mental health, finances, participation and family wellbeing.
Slide 10: Reflection slide asking how services can reduce this load, stating that real inclusion reduces hidden admin and belonging anticipates needs.
