What Do NDIS Support Workers Do?

Introduction to Disability Support Workers

Disability support workers provide day-to-day assistance for people living with disability, offering both practical help and emotional support. Under the NDIS, these workers support participants to live as independently as possible and to move closer to their personal goals.

Their work might involve helping someone get ready for the day, preparing meals, supporting social outings, or providing quiet companionship during challenging moments. Many participants rely on their support worker not only for help with daily activities but also for encouragement, stability, and friendship.

In short, NDIS disability support workers make it possible for NDIS participants to lead safer, more comfortable, and more connected lives.



What are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Support Worker?

NDIS disability support workers assist with a wide range of responsibilities, assisting individuals in ways that match their needs and NDIS plan. Work is usually guided by a personalised support plan and always based on the participant’s goals and preferences.



Personal care

This can include helping with bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and hygiene. For some participants, this support is daily, while others may only require occasional help.



Assistance with daily activities

Support workers help participants carry out everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, domestic assistance, and managing household routines. These tasks maintain independence and improve overall quality of life by keeping the home organised and comfortable.



Support to access the community

A key part of the role is helping participants take part in social and recreational activities. This can include attending a class, going to a community group, visiting family, or participating in a hobby.



Transport

Transport assistance helps participants travel safely to appointments, community activities, employment or study. Many people rely on their support worker to access services they would otherwise miss.



Emotional support

Support workers provide reassurance, comfort, and a listening ear. They help participants work through stressful situations, build confidence, and develop coping strategies.



Health-related support

Some support workers assist with basic health tasks such as medication prompts, mealtime support, or keeping track of appointments. Workers with clinical training, such as disability support nurses, may assist with more advanced health needs.



Record-keeping and communication

Accurate notes help families, coordinators, and health professionals understand how the participant is progressing. Support workers may document tasks completed, behavioural observations, or any concerns.

These responsibilities all contribute to a stable and connected life for the participant. By providing consistent and respectful support, workers help people reach milestones that matter to them.



NDIS Support Services

NDIS support services cover a broad range of activities aimed at improving independence, wellbeing, and community participation. Because no two participants are the same, support services are matched to individual circumstances.

Common NDIS supports include:

• Transport to medical appointments, social activities, and community programs
• Assistance with grocery shopping or attending local services
• Support during community outings, sports, arts programs, or cultural activities
• Skill building such as budgeting, cooking, or household organisation
• Support with communication and social interaction
• Basic health-related support including meal assistance or medication prompts
• Access support for education, employment, and training

Some disability support workers are also trained to work alongside nurses, therapists, healthcare professionals, and other allied health professionals. This allows NDIS participants with complex needs to receive coordinated care in the home and community.

Support workers follow a personalised support plan to guide their work. This plan outlines goals, preferences, risks, and the type of support required. It helps workers provide consistent care while respecting the participant’s independence and choices.



Providing Emotional Support

Emotional support is one of the most valued parts of a support worker’s role. Living with a disability can involve challenges that affect mental health, and many participants look to their disability support workers for stability, reassurance, and understanding.

Emotional support may include:

• Listening without judgement
• Offering encouragement during stressful moments
• Helping participants find healthy ways to manage anxiety or low mood
• Providing comfort during times of change or crisis
• Advocating for the participant when they feel unheard
• Supporting people to maintain relationships with family and friends

Many support workers often work closely with carers and families to create a supportive environment. This can involve guiding families through difficult conversations, helping participants express their needs, or simply being a calm presence in the home.

A compassionate support worker creates a sense of safety and belonging, which is vital for good emotional well-being.



Daily Activities and Personal Care

Daily living activities and personal care form a large part of NDIS support. These tasks allow participants to maintain and achieve greater independence, dignity, and routine, even when they need physical assistance.

Personal care may include:

• Bathing, showering, and grooming
• Dressing and undressing
• Toileting and continence support
• Mobility assistance and transfers
• Prompting or supervising medication

Daily living support may include:

• Meal preparation
• Cleaning and laundry
• Household organisation
• Helping with bills and simple budgeting
• Support with routines such as morning or bedtime activities

Support workers follow the participant’s preferences and comfort levels, taking a respectful approach to all tasks. Personal care is always delivered with privacy, dignity, and cultural sensitivity in mind.



Transport and Social Support

Community participation is a key area of the NDIS, and support workers play a vital role in helping NDIS participants stay active and connected. This often includes providing transport services so participants can confidently take part in everyday activities and community events that matter to them.

Transport support can help participants attend:

• Medical or therapy appointments
• Community centres or day programs
• Social groups and clubs
• Work or study commitments
• Recreational outings such as sports, hobbies, or cultural events

Social participation builds confidence, independence, and community belonging. Support workers also help participants learn new skills that strengthen independence, such as planning an outing, managing time, or organising public transport.

These experiences contribute to a fuller and more enjoyable life.



Skills and Qualities of Support Workers

Great NDIS support workers combine practical skill with compassion and professionalism. The role requires adaptability and a genuine interest in helping people build a meaningful life.

Key qualities include:

• Strong communication skills
• Patience and empathy
• Problem-solving abilities
• Reliability and consistency
• Respect for personal boundaries
• A calm approach under pressure
• Cultural awareness and inclusivity

Most NDIS support workers hold a Certificate III or higher in individual support, disability, or community services. Workers must also complete the NDIS Worker Screening Check and meet ongoing compliance requirements.

These standards help maintain quality and safety across the sector.



Choosing the Right Support Worker

Choosing a disability support worker is an important decision. Participants should consider:

• The worker’s qualifications and experience
• Their ability to meet support needs and preferences
• Their communication style
• Cultural values and personal boundaries
• Reliability and consistency
• Compatibility with the participant’s goals and lifestyle

It’s helpful to meet potential workers before committing, as the relationship between participant and support worker can influence progress, comfort, and overall wellbeing. Strong communication skills make it easier for the participant to express their needs and build trust with their worker.

A great disability support worker will collaborate with the participant, respect their choices, and help them feel in control of their life.



NDIS Support and Community Involvement

Community involvement is an important part of living a connected life. NDIS support workers help participants access community services such as:

• Education and training
• Employment pathways
• Social and recreational programs
• Healthcare and allied health services

They may also help participants form connections with local groups, clubs, or community organisations. These connections help build confidence and create a sense of belonging, improving overall quality of life.



Takeaway

NDIS support workers play a meaningful part in the lives of people with disability, especially those managing the ups and downs of mental health. Their support goes far beyond ticking off tasks. They help shape daily routines, offer calm when things feel overwhelming, and provide the practical and emotional backing needed to get through each day with more ease and confidence.

For many participants, a support worker becomes someone they can rely on, someone who listens without judgement and shows up consistently. They bring stability to moments that feel uncertain and create a space where the participant can feel understood, supported, and respected.

With the right support worker in their corner, someone living with mental health challenges can move through daily life with greater stability, confidence, and clarity. A good support worker doesn’t just complete tasks. They also help create structure, reduce stress, and make it easier for participants to stay connected to their goals and the people around them.



Get Personalised Support with PotentialMe

If you’re looking for compassionate, reliable support that genuinely strengthens your wellbeing, PotentialMe is always on the ready to help. Our NDIS mental health support workers across Melbourne are trained, experienced, and committed to supporting clients with steady, personalised assistance that fits your goals and daily routines. Whether you need help at home, support with mental health challenges, or someone to walk alongside you in the community, we've got you covered.

Call 0401 253 681 or make an enquiry today to connect with a disability support worker who understands you and puts your wellbeing first.