Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

1. Do I need any specific qualifications or checks to work as an NDIS support worker?

Yes, to work as an NDIS support worker, you may need a current Police Clearance, a NDIS Worker Screening Check, a valid Working with Children Check (if working with minors), and First Aid and CPR certification. While formal qualifications aren’t always required, relevant training in disability support, manual handling, and infection control are highly recommended to provide safe, quality care. Support Skills Hub has some great training courses, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

2. As a NDIS Support Worker, how do I get paid, and what records do I need for invoicing?

As an NDIS support worker, you get paid by invoicing the self mananged participant, or if they are plan managed then your invoice goes to the plan manager. You’ll need to keep accurate records of hours worked, dates, and services provided. Support Skills Hub offers step-by-step training courses, templates, and invoicing tools to help you manage payments professionally and stay compliant with NDIS requirements. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

3. How do I handle boundaries and professionalism when working closely with clients?

Maintaining clear boundaries and professionalism is essential when supporting NDIS participants. This includes respecting privacy, avoiding personal relationships, and communicating appropriately. It helps build trust while protecting both you and the client. Support Skills Hub provides training courses and practical resources on ethical conduct, boundary setting, and professional behaviour to help you navigate complex situations with confidence and care.

Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

4. What training could I complete to be a better support worker?

To become a better NDIS support worker, consider training in areas like personal care, manual handling, medication assistance, mental health first aid, and trauma-informed support. These skills improve safety, empathy, and effectiveness in your role. Support Skills Hub offers accessible, practical courses and resources tailored to real-life support work, helping you build confidence, meet compliance, and provide higher quality care. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

5. Can I support someone with complex medical needs, and how do I know when extra training is required?

You can support someone with complex medical needs if you're trained and competent in the required tasks. However, certain clinical procedures must be handled by qualified healthcare professionals. If you're unsure, consult the care plan or supervisor. Support Skills Hub offers targeted training and guidance to help you understand your role, build necessary skills, and recognise when specialist support is required. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

6. What does a Participant need to do to be able to find and hire the right Support Worker?

To find and hire the right Support Worker, a participant should clearly identify their support needs, set a budget, and use platforms or networks to search for the Support Worker. Then interview candidates, check references, and create a service agreement. Choosing someone who aligns with the participant's goals, values, and communication style is key to a strong working relationship. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

7. How does a Support Worker document the support provided and why is it important?

Support workers document support by writing brief, factual notes after each shift, including the date, time, tasks completed, observations, and any incidents or changes. These are called progress notes or support logs. Documentation includes notes for NDIS compliance and participant progress toward goals. Accurate documentation is essential for safe, respectful, and accountable support work. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

8. What can I use my funding for?

You can use your NDIS funding for supports and services that are “reasonable and necessary” to help you achieve your goals. This includes personal care, community access, therapy, transport, and support workers. Funding must relate to your disability and be aligned with your NDIS plan. It can’t be used for everyday expenses. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

9. How do I create a service agreement with a Participant and an independent Support Worker?

To create a service agreement, clearly outline the support worker’s duties, hourly rate, shift times, cancellation terms, communication methods, and confidentiality expectations. Include both names, signatures, and the start date. If you want, you can keep the agreement simple, respectful, and aligned with NDIS guidelines. A written agreement helps protect both parties and sets clear expectations for a positive working relationship. I personally have a comphensive agreement that dots all the i's and cross the t's, so make one that works for you. Support Skills Hub can design a personalised Support worker agreement for you to use, just ask.

10. What qualifications should a Participant look for in a Support Worker?

Participants should look for support workers with relevant experience, good communication skills, and a person-centred approach to all things that they do. Some of the key qualifications participants value may include First Aid, CPR, NDIS Worker Screening Check, and Working with Children Check. While formal training is helpful, the attributes of trust, reliability, empathy, and a strong match with the participant’s needs and goals are often just as important. Support Skills Hub has some great resources, written by a person with a disability. Check them out.

Support Skills Hub acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, learn, and work. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. We recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, community, and culture, and honour their contributions to the caring traditions that continue to shape support, healing, and community well-being across this country. At Support Skills Hub, we are committed to fostering inclusive learning spaces that celebrate diversity, promote reconciliation, and uphold the values of respect, dignity, and equity for all. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

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