How to become a NDIS Carer

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a major reform initiative by the Australian government that provides funding for Australians with disability, as well as their families and carers. Being a NDIS carer involves providing support services to people with a disability so that they can live more independent lives. This could include providing personal care, help with daily tasks such as cleaning, shopping, transportation, or just general support. If you're looking to become a NDIS carer, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started.

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‍Step 1: Obtain a Certificate III in Individual Support

A Certificate III in Individual Support (also known as a Certificate III in Disability or a Certificate III in Ageing Support) is a vocational education and training (VET) qualification in Australia that is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to work as a support worker or carer in the community services or healthcare sectors. The program typically includes a combination of classroom-based learning and supervised practical placements in real-world settings, such as hospitals, community centres, or group homes.

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‍Step 2: Work on your communication skills

It's essential that you are well rounded, possess excellent communication skills and can display empathy when working as a NDIS carer. To do this, it’s important you work on your soft skills, including your communication and interpersonal skills, health and safety procedures, and how to support the rights and independence of individuals. Having these skills will help you build trusted relationships with your clients and their family.

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‍Step 3: Complete the relevant checks

Depending on the type of support you are providing, you may need to complete specific training or obtain certifications in areas such as first aid, disability care, or manual handling. For any job as a NDIS carer, you will need to demonstrate that you are suitable for the role, including by providing references and undergoing a criminal history check and Working with Children Check (if you expect to be working with kids).

Step 4: Get experience

Upon completion of the Certificate III in Individual Support, it's best to get some experience under your belt by seeking an entry-level role in the community services or healthcare sectors, including as a support worker, personal care assistant, or community care worker. In parallel to building your work portfolio, you may also choose to pursue further education, such as a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Community Services or Health.

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‍Step 5: Register for an ABN

Before you start taking on caring gigs, you’ll need to confirm a business name and register for an ABN. You can sign up for an ABN with the support of Thriday.  When registering for an ABN, most carers will pick a sole trader structure, but there are legal and tax benefits to registering a company that you can consider. If you expect to earn over $75,000 a year, you’ll also need to register for GST. If you are registered for GST, you'll also need to lodge a BAS to the ATO.

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‍Step 6: Find clients through an accredited provider

Once you have achieved all the above requirements, you can then apply to become a NDIS carer. There are several avenues available for finding work as a NDIS carer; including registering with websites such as Ally Assist, Mable, Kynd or Like Family. These organisations connect carers with people who have disabilities. You can find a list of accredited NDIS providers in your area by using the NDIS Provider Finder tool on the NDIS website or by contacting your local NDIS office. Additionally, if you already have contacts within the disability sector it may be worth reaching out to them directly - they may even be able to refer potential clients your way!

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‍Step 7: Manage your tax

Once you start earning income, you’ll need to start thinking about tax. One easy to manage your accounting and tax is to use a tool like Thriday. Thriday automates banking, accounting and tax so that NDIS carers don’t need to waste their precious time on financial admin. As soon as you earn income or spend money on your Thriday bank account*, everything is taken care of. You can start with Thriday for free, today. To confirm if your business needs a bookkeeper, accountant, or just Thriday, take this quick tax quiz.

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Becoming a NDIS Carer is a rewarding opportunity which allows individuals living with disability greater independence while offering those who take up the role flexible working hours and competitive pay rates. If this sounds like something that interests you, you then need to follow the steps listed to become registered before getting started on your journey towards becoming an approved NDIS provider.