How to Start Working as an NDIS Support Worker in Sydney — A Simple Guide
How to Start Working as an NDIS Support Worker in Sydney — A Simple Guide
- August 18, 2025
Have you been thinking about becoming an NDIS support worker in Sydney, but not quite sure where to start? Maybe you’ve got a passion for helping people and making a real difference in someone’s life—but the process feels a bit overwhelming?
Take a deep breath, friend. You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re just exploring this as a career option or you’re ready to dive in, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become a support worker with the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) here in beautiful Sydney.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
First Things First – What Does a NDIS Support Worker Do?
Being a support worker under the NDIS isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to empower people with disability to live more independently, pursue their goals, and feel confident in their daily lives.
Depending on the person’s needs, this could mean:
- Assisting with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning or personal care
- Supporting social outings, community activities, or appointments
- Helping build life skills like budgeting or catching public transport
- Simply being a reliable, friendly presence in someone’s life
It’s about walking alongside, not doing for. You’re there to support someone’s choices—not to make them for them.
Step 1: Understand What’s Required
There’s no one-size-fits-all path to becoming a support worker, but there are a few essential things you’ll need to get started in Sydney:
A Big Heart (Seriously!)
Compassion, patience, and respect are absolute must-haves. If you genuinely care about people and want to help them thrive, you’re already off to a great start.
Right to Work in Australia
If you’re not an Australian citizen, make sure you have a valid visa that allows you to work in Australia.
The Certificates You’ll Need
Before you start working, you’ll need to have a few key certificates and checks in place. These help ensure everyone’s safety and meet the legal requirements under the NDIS.
Certificates Needed:
- NDIS Worker Screening Check – This is mandatory for anyone delivering NDIS services in NSW. It verifies that you’re approved to provide support to people with disabilities.
- Working With Children Check (WWCC) – If you’ll be supporting children or young people under 18, you’ll need this too.
- National Police Check – A basic criminal history check. Some providers might request this in addition to the NDIS check.
- First Aid Certificate (HLTAID011) – This qualification equips you with essential first aid and CPR skills. It’s not always required, but highly recommended—and some providers do make it a must.
You can usually apply for these online, and some training organisations will bundle them into their courses if you’re studying.
Step 2: Get Qualified (But Don’t Stress!)
You don’t always need formal qualifications to become a support worker, especially for entry-level roles—but having some training definitely helps you stand out and feel more confident.
Recommended Courses:
- Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
- Certificate IV in Disability
These TAFE and RTO courses give you practical knowledge about working in disability support, person-centred care, and communication skills.
There are even online and part-time options, so you can fit it around your life.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Work
In Sydney, there are a few ways you can work within the NDIS system:
Through a Registered Provider
These are businesses or organisations formally registered with the NDIS, adhering to rigorous quality and safety requirements. The great thing about going this route is they usually take care of the admin side of things—like insurance, rostering, and compliance—and they’ll often match you with participants based on your skills and availability. These include Northcott, Concept Care Disability Solutions (Concept Care), Life Without Barriers etc
Work as an Independent Support Worker
Prefer more flexibility? You can work for yourself and connect directly with participants—kind of like a freelancer. Platforms like Hireup, Kynd can help.
Just remember, if you’re going independent, you’ll need:
- An ABN
- To manage your own tax and insurance
To help you learn about your duties under the NDIS Code of Conduct.
Step 4: Build Your Skills (and Confidence)
Becoming a great support worker doesn’t stop at getting a job—it’s a journey of growth.
Some skills that’ll help you shine:
- Active listening and clear communication
- Cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness
- Emotional resilience and self-care
- Problem-solving and adaptability
The more you learn and reflect, the better you’ll support others—and yourself.
Step 5: Complete the NDIS Worker Orientation Module (Free)
Before you start working with NDIS participants, it’s key to familiarise yourself with the NDIS values and what’s expected of you.
This free online module introduces you to:
- NDIS values and philosophy
- Your obligations as a support worker
- Participant safety and safeguarding practices
It only takes about 90 minutes to complete, and it’s a great way to feel more confident about stepping into your role.
You can complete it here: NDIS Worker Orientation Module on the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission website.
Tip: Once you finish, you’ll receive a certificate of completion—keep this handy, as many employers will ask for it.
Step 6: Find Your First Role
Here’s where the magic happens!
Start by:
- Applying through NDIS providers in Sydney
- Joining online platforms for support workers
- Talking to others in the industry (Facebook groups and forums can be gold!)
- Volunteering or doing placements (great if you’re still studying)
When writing your resume, focus on showcasing your values, your ability to connect with others, and any experience you’ve had supporting people in meaningful ways. These are just as important as qualifications in this field.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Starting a career as an NDIS support worker in Sydney is more than just ticking boxes—it’s about stepping into a role where you can genuinely uplift and empower others.
It’s okay to feel nervous. It’s okay if you’re still figuring it out.
But if your heart is in it, and you’re ready to listen, learn, and grow—you absolutely belong in this space.
You’re not just choosing a job. You’re choosing to be part of something meaningful. And that, friend, is something to be proud of.
Looking for More Support?
Want help finding the right course or provider in Sydney? Or just need someone to chat with who’s been there? Reach out to Concept Care Disability Solutions (Concept Care)—we’re here to help you every step of the way.