Sleep apnoea is not automatically classified as a disability in Australia. However, in certain cases especially where symptoms are severe and impact daily life it may qualify for disability support, including the Disability Support Pension (DSP) or National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) assistance.
In this guide, we’ll explore when sleep apnoea is considered a disability, what support options are available, and how Australians can seek treatment and assistance. We’ll also answer common follow-up questions to help both patients and healthcare providers understand their options.
Table of Contents
-
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
-
Is Sleep Apnoea a Disability in Australia?
-
Does Sleep Apnoea Qualify for the Disability Support Pension (DSP)?
-
Can You Get NDIS Support for Sleep Apnoea?
-
When Is Sleep Apnoea Considered “Severe”?
-
How Sleep Apnoea Affects Daily Life and Work
-
Treatments and Management Options
-
Case Study: Managing Severe Sleep Apnoea
-
Quick Answers: Sleep Apnoea & Disability in Australia
-
FAQs
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a medical condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can lead to poor sleep quality, excessive daytime fatigue, and increased health risks such as high blood pressure, stroke, or heart disease.
Types of Sleep Apnoea
-
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) – Most common; caused by blocked airways.
-
Central Sleep Apnoea – Related to brain signals failing to maintain breathing rhythm.
-
Complex/Mixed Apnoea – Combination of both.
Symptoms
-
Loud snoring
-
Gasping for air during sleep
-
Morning headaches
-
Chronic fatigue
-
Memory and concentration problems
Is Sleep Apnoea a Disability in Australia?
Sleep apnoea is not listed as a recognised disability by default. However, under certain circumstances, it may be considered a disability if:
-
It significantly impairs daily function.
-
It impacts employment or social participation.
-
It is medically diagnosed and deemed severe.
The Australian Government evaluates each case individually. In some situations, particularly where sleep apnoea leads to comorbidities or prevents a person from maintaining employment, it may meet the eligibility for disability-related support services.
Does Sleep Apnoea Qualify for the Disability Support Pension (DSP)?
Short Answer:
Sometimes, yes but it’s rare and based on severity and functional impact.
To qualify for the DSP, individuals must meet the following criteria:
-
Medical Diagnosis: Sleep apnoea must be diagnosed by a sleep specialist.
-
Permanency: The condition must be permanent (or likely to persist for at least two years).
-
Functional Impact: It must result in significant functional limitations in communication, social interaction, mobility, learning, or self-care.
-
Program of Support: Applicants may also need to participate in a ‘Program of Support’ through Centrelink.
Note: Most patients with mild or moderate sleep apnoea won’t meet DSP criteria.
Can You Get NDIS Support for Sleep Apnoea?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) typically does not cover sleep apnoea alone. However, if sleep apnoea is secondary to a primary disability (e.g., Down syndrome, cerebral palsy), support may be available.
NDIS Support Is Possible If:
-
Sleep apnoea is linked to an existing NDIS-approved disability.
-
It contributes to broader sleep or respiratory disorders.
-
It requires assistive technology (like CPAP machines) impacting independence.
While CPAP machines are essential for treatment, they are often covered under other health schemes rather than the NDIS.
When Is Sleep Apnoea Considered “Severe”?
Sleep apnoea severity is often measured using the Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index (AHI)—a scale used during sleep studies.
| Severity | AHI Score | Description |
| Mild | 5–15 | Light snoring, few interruptions |
| Moderate | 15–30 | Frequent waking, increased fatigue |
| Severe | 30+ | Major sleep disruption, risks to health |
Only severe, treatment-resistant sleep apnoea may potentially qualify for disability-related support.
How Sleep Apnoea Affects Daily Life and Work
Sleep apnoea can severely impact cognitive function, alertness, and emotional regulation, especially if left untreated.
Potential Impacts Include:
-
Daytime sleepiness (can lead to job loss)
-
Workplace accidents
-
Reduced driving ability
-
Depression or anxiety
-
Strained relationships
In Australia, drivers diagnosed with severe sleep apnoea must notify their state’s licensing authority.
Treatments and Management Options
Managing sleep apnoea effectively can often reduce the impact to the point where disability assistance is unnecessary.
Common Treatments:
-
CPAP Therapy: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines are the gold standard.
-
Oral Appliances: Custom dental devices to reposition the jaw or tongue.
-
Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, reduced alcohol intake, sleep posture changes.
-
Surgery: In select cases (e.g., UPPP or Inspire implant).
At Tooth Heaven, we provide custom-made oral appliances as a non-invasive treatment for mild to moderate OSA.
Case Study: Managing Severe Sleep Apnoea
Patient Profile:
-
52-year-old male
-
Diagnosed with severe OSA (AHI = 42)
-
Previously employed as a night-shift truck driver
-
Suffered daytime micro-sleeps and a workplace accident
Outcome: After being medically retired, the patient applied for the DSP. His application was supported by:
-
Sleep study reports
-
Specialist assessment
-
A record of failed CPAP tolerance
He was eventually granted partial DSP due to inability to engage in full-time work. He now uses a dental appliance from our clinic and has reported better sleep and quality of life.
Quick Answers: Sleep Apnoea & Disability in Australia
Q: Is sleep apnoea considered a disability in Australia?
A: Not by default, but it may be considered in severe cases with significant daily impact.
Q: Can you get a disability pension for sleep apnoea?
A: Yes, but only if it's severe, permanent, and causes functional limitations.
Q: Is sleep apnoea covered by the NDIS?
A: Only when it’s related to an existing approved disability.
Q: What treatment options help manage sleep apnoea?
A: CPAP machines, dental appliances, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
FAQs
Can you get disability for sleep apnoea in Australia?
Yes, but only in severe, chronic cases with medical documentation and evidence of significant daily impact.
What documents do I need for a DSP application?
-
Sleep study results
-
Specialist reports
-
Functional assessment
-
Participation in a Program of Support (in many cases)
Is a dental device enough to treat sleep apnoea?
For mild to moderate cases, a dental appliance (mandibular advancement splint) can be very effective.
Are dental sleep appliances covered by Medicare or private insurance?
Dental appliances are not typically covered by Medicare but may be claimable through private health extras cover. Check with your fund.