Since the introduction of the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), Australians living with a disability have had greater access to care services that help them to live as safely, happily, and independently as possible. This scheme wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of NDIS support workers. If you’ve been wondering, how do I become an NDIS support worker, this article is for you. Read more about how to become an NDIS support worker, the kinds of formal qualifications you will need, and how being an NDIS support worker could change your life.
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An NDIS support worker, or disability support worker, provides support to people living with a disability. This can include working in people’s homes, in specialised care settings such as aged care homes, or in hospitals. NDIS support workers may provide support to one, two, or multiple NDIS participants, depending on their role and the types of hours they work.
Being an NDIS support worker appeals to many people because of the flexible nature of the role. Support workers can choose to work hourly on a casual basis, or in a part-time or full-time capacity.
The types of tasks that an NDIS support worker performs vary depending on the needs of their clients but can include things like:
Being an NDIS support worker is about so much more than ensuring the safety of your clients. The role – most suited to those with patience, compassion, and a genuine desire to help those living with a disability to reach their goals – is also about connecting with people. Especially when working in the homes of clients, your role is to be a valued member of their household, not only taking care of your client, but being a trusted companion, building a strong relationship together, and supporting them through the highs and lows of their lives. You might also teach them skills and assist them to be a part of their wider community, as per their goals and desires. Here at Care For Family, our care team are trained, experienced professionals, kind, compassionate, and caring individuals.
If this sounds like you, your next question will be: How do I become an NDIS support worker?
Under the NDIS, no formal qualifications are required to become a disability support worker, and there is no minimum education level required. In fact, around 11% of NDIS support workers in Australia have achieved Year 10 or below in school. The main factor in becoming an NDIS support worker is the desire to provide compassionate care for those living with a disability.
Although there are no formal qualification requirements to become an NDIS support worker, there are several certifications that are not only helpful in the job, but can make you a more attractive candidate for some of the roles you might apply for. These include:
Most programs for Cert III in Individual Support are six months to one year long, but some can be completed in as little as 14 weeks. The course will prepare you with the skills needed to provide personal support, with a person-centred approach, to people living with a disability. Combining both theory and practical training, the certificate qualification will equip you to fulfil a support role, with significant autonomy, in a predictable care environment.
This certificate is for those who want to increase their skills and work with more independence. Providing you with a higher level of competency, Cert IV in Disability will allow you to work in a more specialised or supervisory role. Most people who undertake this qualification are already working in the industry and want to further their career to be eligible for roles such as disability officer or personal care assistant. Covering the same topics as Cert III above, this certification goes into more depth and prepares you to work in a broader variety of situations.
Finding a role as an NDIS support worker is as simple as applying to a care provider who is registered to provide NDIS services. It is also possible to be a disability support worker outside of the NDIS program. There are no shortage of disability support worker roles in Australia, as over 4 million Australians currently live with a disability – a number that is growing each and every year. The demand for disability support workers is high and, thanks to the NDIS, funding is available to help people access these support services.
At Care For Family, we specialise in providing expert, caring, and compassionate support services for those living with a disability. Our in-home support services (also able to be provided in dedicated support facilities and aged care homes) are provided by our team of care professionals, each of whom is committed to providing the best quality of care and support to our clients.
We provide full training to all our staff, to ensure that you feel prepared and equipped with all the skills you need for this fulfilling but challenging role. To become an NDIS support worker with Care For Family, simply browse our current vacancies or get in touch with our team for more information.