NDIS Careers Australia
Jobs, Training, Salaries & How to Get Started
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports more than 650,000 Australians living with a disability. It is one of Australia's largest and fastest-growing job markets, employing hundreds of thousands of workers nationally.
Careers under the NDIS include:
- Disability support work
- Behaviour & therapy services
- Community engagement programs
- Specialist housing & SIL programs
- Mental health support
- Allied health services
NDIS jobs are secure, flexible, and hugely in demand.
Most In-Demand NDIS Jobs in 2025
The NDIS sector offers diverse career opportunities for people at all stages of their professional journey.
| Job Title | Best For | Pay (AUD)* | Training Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disability Support Worker | Entry-level applicants | $60K–$85K | Cert III/IV Disability |
| NDIS Support Coordinator | Experienced workers | $70K–$95K | Case management skills |
| Allied Health Assistant | Students in allied health | $60K–$85K | Cert III/IV Allied Health |
| Allied Health Practitioner | University graduates | $90K–$150K+ | AHPRA (regulated roles) |
| Behaviour Support Practitioner | Psychology background | $95K–$130K | Specialist training |
* Includes penalties and travel allowances
Entry-Level Career Pathway
You can start an NDIS career with no healthcare background. Here's the most common step-by-step pathway:
Study Certificate III in Individual Support
Choose the Disability or Ageing specialisation. This qualification can be completed in 6-12 months through TAFE or private training providers.
Complete NDIS Worker Screening Check
This is a mandatory background check for all NDIS workers. Apply through your state or territory screening unit.
Find a Provider or Agency Hiring in Your Area
Search job boards, contact local NDIS providers, or register with healthcare staffing agencies.
Gain On-the-Job Experience
Start working and building your skills. Many employers provide additional training and professional development.
Progress into Senior & Specialised Roles
Move into coordination, specialist support, or pursue further qualifications in allied health or nursing.
This is the easiest entry pathway into Australia's healthcare industry.
Where Are NDIS Jobs Available?
NDIS jobs are available everywhere across Australia, but there's especially strong demand in:
If you're open to regional travel, job offers come fast.
Pay & Conditions (2025)
Support worker pay is covered by the SCHADS Award (Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award).
Hourly Rates
$30–$42/hour
Base rate varies by experience and qualifications
Annual Earnings
$65K–$95K+ with allowances
Full-time including penalty rates
Penalty Rates
Weekends & overnight shifts
Sleepover rates also apply
Many roles include:
- Mileage payments for community visits
- Salary packaging (extra tax-free income)
- Paid or subsidised training and professional development
What the NDIS Looks For
While qualifications are important, personal qualities are equally valued in NDIS roles.
Top personal qualities employers seek:
Empathy > Experience
High-Growth Specialist Roles
For those with additional qualifications or experience, these specialist NDIS roles offer higher pay and strong career development:
- Autism therapy support
- Behaviour support practitioners
- Psychosocial recovery coaching
- Early childhood intervention
- Assistive technology specialists
International Applicants & Visas
NDIS workforce demand means visa-friendly hiring opportunities for international workers.
Popular visa pathways:
- 482 TSS Skilled Visa (employer sponsorship)
- 186 PR Visa (permanent sponsorship)
- 491 Regional Skilled Visa (fast-track pathways)
- Student & Working Holiday Visas (strong part-time job availability)
In-demand visa occupations:
- Disability support workers
- Allied health professionals
- Mental health workers
Compliance & Required Checks
Most NDIS roles require the following checks and certifications:
Essential requirements:
- NDIS Worker Screening Check
- National Police Check
- First Aid + CPR certification
- Manual Handling training
- VEVO work rights check (for international workers)
State-based extras may include:
- Working With Children Check (WWCC) for youth services
- Specific disability support training modules
How to Apply for NDIS Jobs
NDIS jobs are advertised across multiple platforms:
- Seek & Indeed (major job boards)
- Workforce Australia (government employment service)
- Disability providers (Hireup, Aruma, Scope, etc.)
- NDIS careers networks and community groups
- Healthcare staffing agencies
- Local providers in your community
Resume tips for NDIS applications:
- Include support skills and empathy examples
- Show your availability and preferred location
- Add compliance checks upfront (if already completed)
- Highlight any relevant volunteer or care experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your NDIS Career Today
Join one of Australia's fastest-growing and most meaningful sectors. Search for NDIS careers with trusted providers in your area.
Browse NDIS JobsSummary
NDIS careers provide meaningful work, flexibility, and strong job security, with excellent pathways into nursing, allied health, and mental health professions. With national worker shortages and the scheme continuing to expand, the opportunity to start an NDIS career right now is enormous.
Whether you're looking for entry-level work with minimal qualifications, or you're a qualified allied health professional seeking rewarding opportunities, the NDIS sector offers diverse roles across all regions of Australia. The combination of competitive pay, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives makes NDIS careers an outstanding choice.
Take the first step toward a rewarding career in disability support today.