What does a disability support worker do?
A disability support worker assists people in the community with disabilities. They usually come to their clients’ homes, but can also support individuals in residential care or hospital settings, depending on their employer .
The tasks performed for each client are as varied as each person’s particular needs. However, typically a disability support worker will support their clients with personal care, including washing and getting dressed; with their physical mobility, for example by helping them get around the house or taking them to appointments or social outings; and with household chores, such as doing their laundry or cooking for them. Grocery shopping and cleaning can also be required.
Disability support workers can be recruited on a part-time or full-time basis, or they may be hired as self-employed independent contractors.
Disability support worker skills and qualifications
To be successful in the role of a disability support worker, an individual needs to be:
- Empathetic and have great people and communication skills
- Physically able to carry out the duties required by the role
- Adaptable and have great problem-solving skills
- Able to work independently, with access to their own vehicle
- Able to efficiently perform domestic and care duties
Disability support worker experience requirements
Each employer may stipulate different requirements that their disability support workers need to meet in order to best care for their specific clients. It can be beneficial if an applicant has completed an internship or previously volunteered in a support setting.
Disability support worker education and training requirements
Although there is no officially required certification to work as a disability support worker in Australia, it is advantageous for an applicant if they meet certain educational and other formal requirements.
These include a relevant vocational qualification such as the Cert III or IV in Disability, Aged Care, Home and Community care or Individual Support.
A clean driver’s licence and an up-to-date first aid certificate are highly recommended, and acquiring a sound understanding of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a plus.
Disability support worker salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a disability support worker is $33.50 per hour. Although disability support worker salaries may vary slightly depending on the location, they are fairly homogenous across all cities and states. Notably, some private employers offer higher salaries than the national average.
Job description samples for similar positions
There are a number of roles similar to disability support workers. Take a look to see if you need to hire one of these specialists in addition to or instead of a disability support worker:
Disability support worker job description FAQs
What qualities make an outstanding disability support worker?
A great disability support worker will be resilient and genuinely care about their clients. Each client is different and has different needs, so the ability to think outside the box and remain flexible is a real advantage. A successful disability support worker helps their clients stay as independent as possible and wants to make a difference with their role.
What hours does a disability support worker usually work?
Disability support workers can work on a full-time or part-time basis. Working hours can be quite flexible, with shifts ranging from early morning to evening or weekend work, and in some cases even overnight stays. Most disability support workers state their preferences and agree with their employer on what hours they’re willing to work, so an appropriate roster can be set up.
How far is a disability support worker expected to travel?
A disability support worker is typically allocated to clients who live within a 30-minute radius of their location. However, occasional travel outside this area may be required if the client has an appointment further afield. In regional areas, longer commutes may also be necessary.
How physically demanding is the role of disability support worker?
The role may require physically assisting clients by lifting them or transferring them from their bed to a wheelchair or from their wheelchair in and out of a vehicle. Some lifting may also be required when grocery shopping for clients, or performing light household duties. Most employers offer training to ensure health and safety requirements are met.
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