What you need
Compliance Requirements
Working in disability support involves a set of mandatory checks and requirements. This page explains exactly what each one is, how to get it, and what it costs - in plain English, no jargon.
At a glance
Which Checks Apply to Which Roles
Not every check is required for every role. Use this table as a quick reference, then read the full explanation for each check below.
Required Required if supporting children or young people Not required
Each check explained
The Full Details
Everything you need to know about each compliance requirement - what it is, how to get it, how long it takes, and what it costs.
NDIS Worker Screening Check
Required for ALL roles - the most important check in the disability sector
The NDIS Worker Screening Check is a national assessment that determines whether a person poses an unacceptable risk to people with disability. It is mandatory for anyone who works with NDIS participants in a risk-assessed role - which includes every frontline and coordination role at Safe Hands.
The check looks at your criminal history, professional conduct, and other relevant information to assess whether you are suitable to work with vulnerable people. It is conducted by the NDIS Worker Screening Unit in your state - in NSW, this is managed through Service NSW.
How to apply step by step:
Visit the Service NSW website and search for "NDIS Worker Screening Check" or visit a Service NSW centre in person.
Create or log into your Service NSW account. You will need 100 points of identity documents (passport, driver's licence, Medicare card, etc.).
Complete the online application form. You will need your employer's details - we will provide you with Safe Hands's information when you are offered a role.
Pay the application fee of approximately $80. This is your cost as the worker - some employers reimburse this, and we discuss this at the offer stage.
Wait for processing. Initial clearance may be granted within days in straightforward cases, but complex applications can take up to 8 weeks.
Once cleared, your Worker Screening ID (WWID) is linked to your employer via the NDIS worker screening database. It travels with you between employers - you do not need a new check for each job.
Working with Children Check (WWC)
Required if your role involves supporting children or young people under 18
The Working with Children Check (WWC Check) is a separate state-based clearance that applies when a worker has direct contact with children or young people under the age of 18. In NSW, this is administered by the Office of the Children's Guardian.
Not all disability support participants are adults - some of our participants are children or young people. If your role involves supporting anyone under 18, a current WWC Check is required in addition to the NDIS Worker Screening Check. At the time of your offer, we will confirm whether your assigned participants include anyone under 18.
Apply online at the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian website or in person at a Service NSW centre.
Provide 100 points of identity. The check is free for paid employees - you do not pay anything if you are applying as a worker (not a volunteer).
Once granted, your WWC Check number is confirmed and you are cleared to work with children in NSW.
First Aid and CPR Certificate
Required for all frontline roles before commencing
A current First Aid certificate (HLTAID011 - Provide First Aid) and CPR certificate (HLTAID009 - Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) are required for all support workers, community access workers, and coordinators before their first shift.
These certificates are about basic preparedness. In a support role, you may encounter situations where a participant becomes unwell, has a fall, or requires emergency assistance. Holding a current certificate ensures you know how to respond calmly and correctly.
You can book a combined First Aid and CPR course at multiple Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in the Newcastle area. The course is typically one day, combining an online component with a short practical session. We will provide recommended providers when you receive an offer.
Driver's Licence and Insured Vehicle
Required for all frontline and coordination roles
Most roles at Safe Hands involve travelling - to participants' homes, community activities, appointments, and between clients. A current, unrestricted Australian driver's licence is required for all frontline support and coordination roles.
You must also have access to a reliable, registered, and comprehensively insured vehicle. Before you transport any participant in your vehicle, we will ask you to provide evidence of your insurance policy. We do not require a particular type of vehicle, but it must be roadworthy and maintained in a condition appropriate for transporting people.
NDIS Worker Orientation Module
Online training - completed before your first shift, paid time
The NDIS Worker Orientation Module "Quality, Safety and You" is a free, online training program developed by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. It covers the rights of people with disability, the NDIS Code of Conduct, and your obligations as a worker. All new NDIS workers are required to complete this module.
The module takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and is self-paced. It is done online through the NDIS Commission's learning portal. You will be given paid time to complete this before or during your first week. It is straightforward - the content is important but the format is accessible to all workers regardless of experience level.
Right to Work in Australia
Required for all roles - verified before commencement
All employees must have the legal right to work in Australia. This is a standard employment law requirement that applies to every role. We use the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system to verify work entitlements for all new staff.
If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you simply provide your passport or citizenship certificate. If you hold a temporary visa, you provide your visa grant notice and we verify your work entitlements via VEVO before your start date.
Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications by Role
Formal qualifications are an advantage but are not always required. Here is what is preferred for each role - and what you can build toward once you are working with us.
Disability Support Worker
No qualifications are required to apply. We welcome people new to the sector with the right values and attitude. Qualifications are an advantage.
No minimum required Cert III preferred Cert IV valuedCommunity Access Worker
No formal qualification required. Experience in community services, youth work, recreation, or social support is valued but not mandatory.
No minimum required Community services background valuedSupport Coordinator
Minimum 2 years in disability, social work, or community services. A relevant tertiary qualification is strongly preferred.
2+ years experience required Social Work degree preferred Disability Studies valuedOccupational Therapist
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from a recognised Australian university. Current and unconditional AHPRA registration required.
OT Degree required AHPRA Registration requiredAdministration Officer
Minimum 2 years in administration, office support, or reception. A qualification in business administration is an advantage but not required.
2+ years admin experience Business Admin cert valuedStudying or considering study? We actively support workers who want to build qualifications while working. If you are interested in completing a Certificate III or IV in Individual Support or Disability while working with us, talk to us about how we can support that during the interview process.