Build your career as a Disability Support Worker

health & community

Disability Support Worker

A career as a Disability Support Worker offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities. You’ll assist with daily activities, provide personal care, and help clients achieve their goals for independence and social participation. With the increasing demand for disability services in Australia, this role provides job security, growth opportunities, and the chance to work in a rewarding and compassionate field.

Ready to make a difference? Start your career as a Disability Support Worker today. 

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EMPLOYED 344,400
PART-TIME SHARE 57%
AVERAGE FULL-TIME HOURS 43
MEDIAN WEEKLY EARNINGS $1,564

The demand for Disability Support Workers in Australia is growing, driven by an ageing population and increased focus on disability care under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This role offers strong job security and opportunities across a wide range of settings, including residential care, community services, and healthcare. As the need for personalised care continues to rise, Disability Support Workers can expect career growth, with possibilities for specialisation and advancement within the disability sector.

Gender Split

Employment by State

Highest Level of education (%)

Age Brackets

What can you expect from working as a Disability Support Worker?

Disability support workers assist individuals with disabilities or aged clients, helping them maintain independence and quality of life. Key duties typically include:

  • Accompanying Clients: Supporting clients during daily activities and outings to ensure safety and engagement.
  • Mobility Assistance: Assisting clients with their mobility needs, including help with walking, transferring, or using mobility aids.
  • Meal Preparation: Preparing nutritious meals based on clients' dietary requirements and preferences.
  • Social Activities: Arranging and facilitating social activities to encourage interaction and prevent isolation.
  • Housekeeping: Performing housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, cleaning, and maintaining a tidy living environment.
  • Personal Care Assistance: Helping with personal hygiene, dressing, and grooming to ensure clients’ comfort and dignity.
  • Emotional Support: Providing companionship, friendship, and emotional support to enhance clients' well-being.
  • Errands & Shopping: Doing grocery shopping, running errands, and assisting with other daily tasks as required.
  • Live-in Care: May provide live-in support to clients, offering assistance with all aspects of daily life.

How to become a Disability Support Worker?

To become a Disability Support Worker, complete an online qualification that offers flexible learning and practical experience in supporting individuals with disabilities. This career path provides the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives while gaining skills that open doors to various roles in healthcare and community services.

CHC43121

Certificate IV in Disability Support

Get ready to empower vulnerable people. Become a sought-after care worker who has all the advanced skills needed to provide excellent individualised care. Graduate industry ready to make your mark and lead a team of support workers to success.
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CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)

Join a booming industry and gain all the skills you need for lasting success as a support worker. Graduate ready to make an impact and provide exceptional support to vulnerable people.
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CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)

Prime yourself for long-lasting success in the growing aged care industry by transforming yourself into a skilled aged care worker. You’ll have a positive impact on the lives of your elderly clients and provide them with the support and companionship...
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