21 May 2024 – Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

The success of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) greatly depends on the dedicated and compassionate NDIS support workers who provide essential assistance to participants. Their primary responsibility is to promote independence and help participants reach their potential through physical and emotional support. This article explores the roles and responsibilities of disability support workers and how they contribute to improving the lives of people with disabilities. 

What Does an NDIS Support Worker Do?

NDIS support workers are responsible for fostering independence and inclusion, and helping participants physically, socially and emotionally. 

This includes:

Assistance with Self Care: One of the core responsibilities of a registered NDIS support worker is assisting participants with personal care and daily living activities. From getting dressed and grooming to meal preparation and other in-home tasks, disability support workers help improve your day to day life. If you need help or supervision with hygiene, cooking, health and nutrition, they’ll be there to support you.

Item Number	Item Name and Notes	Hourly Rate
01_011_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Weekday	$67.56
01_015_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Evening	$74.44
01_002_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Night	$75.82
01_013_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Saturday	$95.07
01_014_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Sunday	$122.59
01_012_0107_1_1	Assistance with Self Care Activities – Public Holiday	$150.10

 

Household Cleaning and Yard Maintenance: This type of disability support enables participants to keep their home environment tidy and comfortable. It involves the NDIS support worker undertaking essential household tasks you’re unable to do, or need assistance with.

Item Number	Item Name and Notes	Hourly Rate
01_019_0120_1_1	House or Yard Maintenance	$55.21
01_020_0120_1_1	House Cleaning and Other Household Activities	$56.23

 

Specialised Home Based Assistance for a Child: Parenting is a tough job that requires support too. This item provides specialised help in the home for additional requirements of a child’s disability and assists in strengthening the sustainability of informal supports such as family members.

Item Number	Item Name and Notes	Hourly Rate
01_016_0104_1_1	Specialised Home Based Assistance for a Child	$57.23

 

Assistance with Social and Community Participation: NDIS support workers play a crucial role in encouraging social inclusion and community engagement. Your disability worker should help you navigate life outside the home. From accessing social events and recreational activities to attending shopping trips, appointments, and facilitating connections within your local community. 

By understanding your specific needs, support workers can help you connect socially and emotionally, fostering a sense of independence and belonging in the community.

Item Number	Item Name and Notes	Hourly Rate
04_104_0125_6_1	Access Community – Weekday	$67.56
04_103_0125_6_1	Access Community – Evening	$74.44
04_105_0125_6_1	Access Community – Saturday	$95.07
04_016_0125_6_1	Access Community – Sunday	$122.59
04_012_0125_6_1	Access Community – Public Holiday	$150.10

The NDIA sets the prices that providers can charge for the above disability support items. Please note, the rates above are from the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. These outline the maximum price. A participant may negotiate a lower rate in accordance with their needs and budget.

Qualifications and Support Workers

Vocational Qualifications: If you’re looking for disability support, find an NDIS support worker with a vocational qualification such as a Certificate III in Individual Support. While it’s possible to become an NDIS support worker without formal qualifications, they’re desirable assets to have.

Prior Experience: Having prior experience is essential for offering superior support and care. Review their website, profiles and reviews to ensure they have the level of experience you need.

One way aspiring NDIS support workers can boost their credentials is by volunteering.

Police Check: Ideally, NDIS disability workers will have obtained their police check or NDIS Worker Check before they start providing support. This is a national assessment that confirms if a person poses a risk to people with a disability. Such checks are important for establishing trust and reliability, ensuring vulnerable people are supported by highly vetted workers with good character and act with honesty and integrity. 

Ongoing Training and Development: The best disability workers will stay relevant with industry knowledge and best practices. Look for a support worker who engages in professional development, attends regular training sessions and seeks continuous learning to enhance their skills and expertise. 

Registered Support Workers: Plan managed participants can maximise choice and control by engaging with either registered or unregistered providers for support. 

Documentation and Reporting

Accurate documentation and reporting are essential aspects of a NDIS support worker’s role. They maintain records of their interactions with participants, document progress, and report any changes or concerns to the relevant authorities. This information ensures continuity of care and aids in future planning and decision-making processes.

Contact My Plan Assist

At My Plan Assist, we help NDIS participants and their network of support workers with valuable information. If you need further details about NDIS pricing limits or assistance in submitting a compliant and well-formatted invoice for efficient payments, reach out to our knowledgeable team at [email protected] or call (07) 5641 2277.

My Plan Assist is a local registered plan management team dedicated to providing personalised and caring plan management support for NDIS participants. We’re committed to helping participants track NDIS funds, streamline administration tasks, ensure efficient provider payments, and maximise the value of participant plans. 

Speak with our friendly team today.