We aim to improve the mental health of young Australians with disability aged 15-24 years.

Over 450,000 young Australians have a disability (about 14% of 15-24 year olds).

Young people with disability experience much poorer mental health than peers without disability. Our team brings together academic expertise and lived experience of disability to identify solutions to improve mental health for young people with disability in Australia.

"We want young people with disability to feel they’re not alone and for others in the community to know what it’s like.”

- Bella, RAY Lived Experience Research Assistant

Who are we?

We are a research team from six universities. Our team includes academic researchers and young people with disability.

We work in collaboration with youth disability organisations, governments, services, and young people and their families to identify policies and interventions that will achieve better mental health for young Australians with disability.

A collage of photos of members of the Research Alliance for Youth Disability and Mental Health. There are 28 staff members shown.

Latest news & research

  • A tram passes on the road in front of public housing towers in Melbourne

    As Victoria demolishes public housing towers, the rights of people with disability must be upheld

  • A young boy wearing glasses and smiling in a classroom

    ‘Thriving Kids’ could help secure the future of the NDIS. But what will the program mean for children and families?

  • A preview of fact sheets available on the website

    Fact sheets and policy briefs - loneliness, mental health & supportive environments

  • Logo for the Urban Policy and Research Journal

    Do Australian disability policies support accessible and inclusive neighbourhoods for children with disability and their families?

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