How to Find the Right NDIS Support Worker for Your Needs
Choosing the right NDIS support worker is an important step in getting the most from your plan. The right support worker can make a big difference in your day-to-day life—whether they’re helping with personal care, joining you on community outings, or supporting you to build life skills.
At Choice Support Plus, we believe support should feel personal, respectful, and empowering. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you find the right support worker for your unique needs.
Step 1: Understand What You Need
Before you begin looking, take some time to think about the kind of help you want. Ask yourself:
Do I need support with personal care, household tasks, or transport?
Am I looking for someone to help me build new skills or reach specific goals?
Do I want a support worker who shares my interests, language, or cultural background?
What kind of personality would I feel most comfortable with—friendly, quiet, energetic, calm?
Understanding your needs will help you choose someone who’s the right fit, not just someone available.
Step 2: Know What’s in Your NDIS Plan
Check your NDIS plan to see what funding is available for support workers. You’ll likely find this under:
Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life
Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living
If you’re not sure what your plan includes, your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager (if you have one) can help you review it.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Hire
There are a few ways to find a support worker under the NDIS:
✔ Through a registered provider
They’ll handle the admin, insurance, and compliance
You’ll be matched with a qualified, vetted worker
✔ Through online platforms or directories
Examples include Mable or Hireup
You may need to manage bookings and payments yourself (depending on how your plan is managed)
✔ Directly (if self-managing your plan)
More flexibility, but more responsibility
You’ll handle hiring, contracts, and invoicing
Step 4: Ask the Right Questions
Once you’ve found a potential support worker, arrange a meeting or trial shift. Some helpful questions to ask:
Have you worked with people with similar support needs before?
What days and times are you available?
What kind of support do you enjoy providing?
How do you handle unexpected changes or challenges?
Are you comfortable with personal care or community outings?
Trust your instincts—you should feel respected, safe, and supported when speaking with them.
Step 5: Check Qualifications and Experience
All NDIS support workers should:
Have a current NDIS Worker Screening Check
Hold a valid First Aid and CPR certificate
Understand NDIS Code of Conduct and participant rights
Be trained in manual handling, infection control, and privacy
While formal qualifications are important, attitude, reliability, and communication skills often matter just as much.
Step 6: Start with Clear Expectations
Once you choose a support worker, set clear expectations about:
What tasks they’ll help with
Your preferred routine and communication style
Boundaries and privacy
Reporting concerns or making changes
Having an open conversation early on helps avoid confusion later.
Step 7: Review and Reflect
After a few weeks, ask yourself:
Do I feel safe and supported?
Is my support worker reliable and respectful?
Am I making progress toward my NDIS goals?
If something’s not working, it’s okay to make a change. You have the right to choose the support that works best for you.
Final Tips from Choice Support Plus
✔ Take your time—you don’t have to choose the first person you meet
✔ Prioritise trust and compatibility
✔ Use your support network—ask family, friends, or your Support Coordinator for help
✔ If you need guidance, we’re here for you!