What Is an NDIS Support Worker — And How Do They Help?

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be complex, but one key role stands out when it comes to day-to-day assistance: the NDIS Support Worker.

Whether you're new to the NDIS or exploring the types of services available to you or a loved one, this guide breaks down what an NDIS support worker does, how they help people with disabilities, and what to consider when choosing the right support worker for your needs.

What Is an NDIS Support Worker?

An NDIS support worker is someone who assists a person living with disability to live more independently and participate in their community. They work directly with NDIS participants, providing practical support tailored to the individual’s goals, needs, and NDIS plan.

Support workers are typically funded through the Core Supports budget in a participant’s NDIS plan, under “Assistance with Daily Life” or “Social and Community Participation.”



What Does an NDIS Support Worker Do?

The duties of an NDIS support worker will vary depending on the participant’s needs. Some of the most common support worker tasks include:

1. Personal Care

Support with activities such as:

• Showering, dressing, grooming, toileting
  
• Transferring (e.g., getting in/out of bed)
  
• Medication prompts or supervision
  
  

2. Household Tasks

Help with keeping the home safe and clean:

• Meal preparation
  
• Cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping
  
• Basic gardening or home organisation
  
  

3. Transport and Appointments

Assisting with travel to:

• Medical or therapy appointments
  
• School or work
  
• Recreational and community activities
  
  

4. Social and Community Participation

Supporting engagement in social or leisure activities:

• Attending group programs or events
  
• Going to the gym or movies
  
• Joining clubs or volunteering
  
  

5. Skill-Building and Independence

Working towards capacity-building goals like:

• Cooking and meal planning
  
• Budgeting and using money
  
• Learning routines and time management
  
• Communication and social skills
  
  

6. Assisting with Employment or Study

Some support workers can also assist with:

• Travel to TAFE, university, or training
  
• Help with preparation and organisation for study
  
• Work-readiness or exploring employment goals



Who Can Be an NDIS Support Worker?

NDIS support workers can work independently or be employed through a registered provider. 

There are two main ways to work as a support worker:

1. Through a registered NDIS provider
   
2. As an Independent Support Worker

They don't need to be formally qualified, but they must meet safety standards and often hold:

• An NDIS Worker Screening Check
• First Aid and CPR certification
  
• A Working with Children Check (if applicable)
  
• Relevant experience or training in disability support
  
  

Participants may choose support workers based on their communication style, lived experience, cultural background, or shared interests — because connection and trust are essential.

Want to Become an Independent Support Worker?

Many people are now choosing the independent path, where they work for themselves and contract directly with NDIS participants. This can offer:

• More flexibility in work hours
  
• Higher earning potential
  
• Direct relationships with participants
  
  

To become an independent support worker, you’ll need an ABN and NDIS Worker Screening Check, as well as service agreements and case note records to meet compliance obligations.

We’ve created comprehensive guides for Independent Support Workers to make the journey easier — and more professional.  Included is NDIS Tax Invoice Template + Guide, NDIS Service Agreement Template + Guide, NDIS Quote Template + Guide and NDIS Case Notes Template + Guide.