Disability

There are a number of courses that can help provide the skills and knowledge needed to become a disability support worker. Our Induction (into disability, health and community services) short course is a great starting point. This course can be completed in just 8 weeks and gives learners a ‘taste’ of the support sector. It is a nationally recognised skill set for anyone seeking an entry-level role in the disability sector.

Disability Support Workers provide support and care to people with disabilities. This can occur in a community or residential setting.

You may be responsible for:

• Individual Support Plans or NDIS plans and implementing them effectively.
• Connecting individuals to services, programs, and opportunities.
• Supporting clients in gaining skills and independence rather than fostering dependency.
• Managing schedules, medical appointments, and daily tasks efficiently.
• Providing physical assistance, including lifting, transferring, and mobility support.

There are two nationally recognised qualifications that provide practical, technical and procedural knowledge to prepare you to become a disability support worker and understand the concepts and practices of person-centred support.

Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) is an 11 month qualification that is delivered using a blend of virtual training and 8 on-campus sessions.

Certificate IV in Disability Support is an 8 month qualification that can be completed online via virtual training.

A great disability support worker possesses a combination of personal qualities, skills, and knowledge, including:

• Ability to communicate clearly and adapt communication styles based on the individual’s needs (non-verbal communication, assistive technology).
• Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, to foster trust and connection.
• Quickly finding practical solutions to challenges while considering the individual’s preferences.
• Familiarity with emergency response and safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of clients.
• Remaining calm and composed, especially in challenging situations.
• Treating clients with dignity, respecting their independence, and valuing their choices.
• Being dependable and consistent, creating a sense of stability for the individual.
• Sensitivity to diverse cultural, social, and linguistic backgrounds.
• Encouraging and maintaining a supportive environment.
• Maintaining confidentiality and setting boundaries.
• Awareness of different types of disabilities and their specific needs.

A great disability support worker can make a profound impact on the lives of individuals they support, fostering empowerment, inclusion, and independence.

The demand for disability support workers in Australia is at an all-time high. Over 500,000 Australians are now accessing NDIS funding for disability assistance. This has driven substantial job growth in the disability sector, making it the largest and fastest-growing industry in the country​.

Graduates of Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) can explore a wide range of roles and career paths within the disability sector. Potential job roles include:

• Disability Support Worker
• Residential Support Worker
• School Support Officer
• Accommodation Support Worker
• Personal Care Assistant
• Community Care Worker
• Respite Worker

Graduates of Certificate IV in Disability Support can explore more senior roles in the disability sector, working with more autonomy. Potential roles include:

• Senior Care Assistant
• Disability Support Facilitator
• Community-based Support Officer
• Employment Pathways Practitioner
• Support Coordinator
• Disability Support Team Leader
• Disability Employment Services Consultant