Support Worker Qualification Checker
Find out if you can work as an NDIS support worker without formal qualifications. Answer 6 quick questions to get personalized guidance.
What type of support work are you interested in?
Disclaimer: This quiz provides general guidance only. Requirements may vary by employer and role type. Always check specific job requirements with the employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can work as an NDIS support worker without formal qualifications in many cases, especially for entry-level roles.
What you DO need:
- NDIS Worker Screening Check - mandatory for all NDIS workers
- Working rights in Australia
- First Aid Certificate - most employers require this
- Personal qualities - empathy, reliability, good communication
Many employers provide on-the-job training and may support you to get qualifications while working.
The minimum requirements for NDIS support workers are:
- NDIS Worker Screening Check clearance - costs $80-$128 depending on state
- Working rights in Australia - citizen, PR, or valid work visa
- Reliable transport - car preferred, full licence ideal
- First Aid Certificate (HLTAID011) - most employers require this
- Good communication skills - written and verbal
- Physical fitness - for personal care and mobility support roles
Formal qualifications (Cert III/IV) are preferred but not always essential for basic support roles.
Not always. Here's the breakdown:
No qualification required:
- Social support and community access
- Transport assistance
- Household tasks (cleaning, meal prep)
- Basic companionship
Qualification preferred:
- Personal care (showering, dressing)
- Medication prompting
- SIL (Supported Independent Living)
Qualification required:
- High-intensity daily living (PEG feeding, catheters)
- Complex health support
- Behaviour support practitioner roles
Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a support worker with no experience:
- Get your NDIS Worker Screening Check - apply through your state's screening unit
- Complete a First Aid course - HLTAID011 (~$100-150, 1 day)
- Complete the free NDIS Worker Orientation Module - online, takes ~90 minutes
- Consider volunteering - gain experience while job searching
- Apply for entry-level roles - look for "training provided" in job ads
- Highlight transferable skills - customer service, hospitality, caring experience
Many providers specifically hire people without experience and provide comprehensive training.
The NDIS Worker Screening Check may exclude you if you have:
- Sexual offenses - especially involving children or vulnerable people
- Violent offenses - assault, domestic violence
- Serious drug offenses - trafficking, manufacturing
- Fraud or financial crimes - especially against vulnerable people
- Workplace misconduct - in previous care roles
Important: Minor offenses (traffic, old minor offenses) don't automatically disqualify you. Each case is assessed individually based on:
- How long ago the offense occurred
- The nature and severity
- Evidence of rehabilitation
If you're unsure, you can still apply - the screening unit will assess your situation.