How to get started as a disability support worker

Disability support workers provide essential support to people with disabilities, helping them live more independent, fulfilling lives. 

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) funds hundeds of thousands of disability support workers to support around 700,000 people with disability across Australia. With so many jobs available, if you’re passionate about helping people and want a meaningful career the becoming a disability support worker could be the perfect path for you.

So how do you get started, and what do you need to succeed?

Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change, here’s everything you need to know about becoming a disability support worker in Australia.

What does a disability support worker do?

At its core, disability support work is about helping people with disabilities navigate daily life. That might mean assisting with personal care, household tasks, shopping, social activities or transportation. But it’s not just about practical support – it’s also about building relationships, encouraging independence and ensuring people with disabilities can fully participate in their communities.

Some of the key responsibilities of a disability support worker include:

• Providing emotional support and companionship
• Supporting clients with social and recreational activities
• Assisting with mobility and transportation
• Helping to implement support plans tailored to individual needs
• Encouraging independence and personal development
• Helping with personal care tasks like dressing, bathing, or meal preparation

Every day as a disability support worker is different, and the role can be incredibly fulfilling – especially when you see the direct impact you’re making on someone’s life. 

Do you need qualifications to become a disability support worker?

The great news is that you don’t necessarily need formal qualifications to start working in disability support – many employers are happy to hire workers based on their soft skills, experiences and attitude. If you’re compassionate, patient, and a good communicator, you already have a strong foundation for this career path. 

That being said, getting some formal training can help boost your employability and prepare you for the job. Some of the most common qualifications include:

Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
This is one of the best starting points for a career in disability support. It teaches you the fundamentals of providing care and support in a professional setting. Many employers prefer candidates with this certification, and it can open up more job opportunities.

Certificate III in Community Services
This qualification is designed for entry level community services workers who support individuals by providing person centred services. Your work may involve day to day support of individuals in community settings or assisting in the implementation of specific community programs.

Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance
This is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you to support allied health professionals in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centres.

Certificate IV in Disability
If you want to take your career to the next level, this qualification can help. It provides more in-depth knowledge and can lead to higher-level roles or even leadership positions.

Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
This will equip you with the skills and knowledge to work as an Allied Health Assistant, providing therapeutic and program-related support to clients under the guidance of allied health professionals in various settings.

If you’re interested in delving even deeper into the world of care support or specialties outside the disability sector, there are even more courses you could complete, like; a Certificate IV in Mental Health, a Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work, a Diploma of Community Services or an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management.

The good news? Financial support is available in some states for many of these courses through programs like Free TAFE in Victoria and Fee-Free Training in NSW, making it more accessible to get started. 

Certifications and checks you’ll need

Even though you don’t need a qualification to become a disability support worker, there are some important certifications and background checks that you’ll still likely need to work in the disability field. These ensure the safety and well-being of both support workers and the people they assist.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• First Aid and CPR Certificate – Essential for handling medical emergencies
• Working with Children Check – Required if you’ll be supporting young people
• NDIS Worker Screening Check – Needed if you work with a registered NDIS provider
• National Police Check – To ensure you meet safety requirements

Plus some other useful ones:

• Driver’s Licence –  Useful for transporting clients and increasing job flexibility
• Up to date immunisations and records – This will be dependent on the specific role and organisation’s requirements.

Some employers might require additional training, but these are the most common checks to get started. 

What skills and personal attributes make a great disability support worker?

Technical skills are important, but your “soft skills” and personal qualities can be just as crucial in this job. Successful support workers tend to share some key traits, such as:

• Empathy and compassion: You’ll be supporting people through challenges, so a kind and understanding way of relating to others is essential;
• Communication skills: Whether you’re talking with clients, families or other professionals, clear and effective communication is important;
• Patience and adaptability: Every client is different, and situations can change quickly. Being flexible and patient will help you whatever comes your way;
• Reliability and trustworthiness: Clients rely on you, so being dependable and keeping commitments is vital; and
• Problem-solving skills: Thinking on your feet and finding creative solutions can make all the difference, especially when working with people from all walks of life.

How to get experience

If you’re new to the disability sector and want to build your skills before jumping into a full-time role, gaining some experience is a great way to boost your confidence and improve your resume. You can get experience in the sector by:

• Volunteering – Many disability organisations welcome volunteers, giving you hands-on experience in the field and an opportunity to learn the way that the organisation operates;
• Traineeships – Some organisations provide paid training opportunities, allowing you to earn while you learn; or
• Networking – keep an eye out for disability sector events and opportunities to build connections with the organisations you’re interested in working for.

Career progression

A career in disability support doesn’t have to stop at entry-level positions. The sector is huge, and many disability support providers can offer fantastic career advancement opportunities. With experience, further training and by gaining an understanding of the areas that interest you, you can move into more advanced roles like: 

• Team Leader or Coordinator – Overseeing a group of support workers and managing services
• Case Manager – Developing support plans and working closely with clients and families
• Specialist Disability Support roles – Focusing on more specific areas like mental health, assistive technology or complex care needs.

Some support workers also go on to complete a degree in fields like social work, occupational therapy or disability services management. 

Becoming a disability support worker is one of the easiest ways to get into an ethical job if you don’t have a lot (or any) experience. Whether you’re providing day-to-day assistance or encouraging independence, your work will be impactful and appreciated. 

So, if you’re ready to make a difference, take a look at the wide range of disability support roles available now!