Skills Shortage List Australia: Occupations in Demand in 2026
Published 31 Aug 2023
How to Become a Disability Support Worker
Michael Yi Everything you need to know about becoming a disability support worker,
including skills, education and the industry itself.Â
What Does a Disability Support Worker Do?
A disability support worker provides physical assistance, emotional support and personal care for people with intellectual or physical disabilities. Their usual tasks consist of assisting in domestic duties and chores such as shopping and cooking, helping with social activities and outings, as well as providing support to clients to develop their existing skills, abilities and confidence.
The role itself may vary depending on the client’s needs, but the essential aspect of a disability support worker is to alleviate physical discomfort, promote emotional wellbeing and general health.
Disability support workers work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, specialised care settings and in client’s homes. Becoming a disability support worker can be a challenging yet highly rewarding career as you can make a real positive difference in the lives of those people living with a disability. In this article, we will explain how to become a disability support workers with the critical intrapersonal skills and educational requirements needed to do so.
Skills for Sucess
Before diving into study or training to become a disability support worker, it is an excellent idea to understand which intrapersonal skills are you’ll need. Working as a disability support worker can sometimes be emotionally challenging; therefore, there are many qualities employers look for in their candidates. These skills include but are not limited to:Â
Communication skills
Reliability
Emotional intelligence
Including being patient, understanding, and empathetic.
Resilience
Passion
Although these skills are not requirements for the job, they offer a benchmark in what to expect from employers in the industry. Communication skills are vital to the role, as it can influence and impact how clients interact in a social environment. They are also used to clearly and concisely guide them in certain social situations. Also, emotional intelligence and resilience are vital attributes which reflect the nature of disability support workers in solving conflict and dealing with complex mental disability issues such as ADHD and autism.
Education Requirements
In some cases, it is possible to work as a Disability Support Worker without formal qualifications; however, many employers require a vocational qualification such as a Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33015) or a Certificate IV in Disability (CHC43115). A Bachelor of Social Work is also another education suitable to work as a disability support worker. Other job opportunities in this field include a variety of roles such as home care worker, social worker, attendant care worker and many more.
Before starting work as a disability support worker, you will also need to have completed a satisfactory police check, obtain a Working with Children’s Check, First Aid Certificate and most likely possess an Australian Drivers Licence. Furthermore, new job applicants in this field should be aware of the National Standards for Disability Services and the rights, needs and requirements of people with a disability from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Free vs Paid Disability Courses: The Difference Explained
Both free and paid disability courses have their benefits and drawbacks. The most important thing is to understand how they differ, and how that relates to your future.
Industry Outlook
According to the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, in Australia, there are strong employment prospects for those wishing to start a career in disability support work. The number of people working as Aged and Disabled Carers has grown enormously over the past five years. The workforce is expected to expand from 175,800 in 2018 to 245,000 by 2023. There are likely to be approximately 35,000 job openings each year, with more opportunities to work part-time than full time. 33% of workers in this industry work full time, and on average, 66% work part-time. In Australia, the majority of disability support workers or aged care workers are present in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and WA, respectively.Â
Working as a disability support worker can be a challenging yet highly enriching career. The ability to work with diverse people to improve their quality of life can be a very gratifying feeling for disability support workers.
There are few barriers to entry in this industry, as vocational training can be undertaken once starting working in this profession. Still, it is ideal for candidates to possess some knowledge about practices and behaviours relevant to their clients.
There a range of flexible online courses and study options available for prospective Disability Support Workers and most courses can be done on a part-time or full-time basis.
Working as part of a team to support people with physical and mental health disabilities is perfect for those who are passionate about helping others, especially in their community. Â
Teaching Children with Special Needs: Complete Career Guide
Everything you need to know about teaching kids with special needs.
Browse Results
Top Result
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (VIC Only) CPC50220
Tackle bigger and more rewarding challenges with our CPC50210 Diploma of Building and Construction (Building). If you feel you’re ready to tackle bigger and more rewarding challenges and start your own building business, then our Diploma building cours...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Project supervisor +5
Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
The Certificate III in Community Services is perfect for entry level community services workers who support individuals through the provision of person-centred services. Work may include day-to-day support of individuals in community settings or suppor...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Support Worker +3
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health. Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The c...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Naturopath
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition)
Clinical nutritionists integrate traditional food wisdom and current scientific evidence to motivate individuals and communities to eat well and live healthier lives. The Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) is supported by a strong underpin...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Health and Nutritional Consu... +6
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing OR Disability) (Perth Only) CHC33021
If you have a passion for helping those most in need, this qualification is one way you can utilise your knowledge for the benefit of others. Package the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) (CHC33021) to save time and gain know...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Care Assistant +4
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
If you love working with children and want to learn more about providing quality education and care in a range of environments, this course is for you. The Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) can provide you with an entry-l...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +2
Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (VIC Only) HLT31120
Our Promise We are confident in the delivery of our training. On successful completion of the course, graduates will be guaranteed a telephone interview for vacant Patient Transport Officer positions in the Non-Emergency Patient Transport division. So...
Study Method In-class
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Patient Transport Officer
Diploma of Community Services (Perth Only) CHC52025
The Diploma of Community Services qualification reflects the roles of community services, case management and social housing workers involved in the managing, co-ordinating and/or delivering of person-centred services to individuals, groups and communi...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Services Case Mana... +4
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021
A Certificate III in Allied Health is your entrance into the world of health services! This course will teach you to support workers in a range of fields such as audiology to social work. You will use your qualification to gain an entry-level job in ei...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Physiotherapist Aide +4
Certificate III in School Based Education Support (Perth Only) CHC30221
Are you interested in becoming a teacher’s aide? Work with teachers to create a comfortable and supportive environment for children’s learning. You will ensure lessons run smoothly while also developing the student’s literacy, numeracy and resear...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Home Tutor +4
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
This qualification is for those who want to work in the community or in a residential setting, following a customised plan to give person-centred assistance to individuals who may need it due to ageing, disability or other circumstances. Work involves...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture Therapies)
Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine that stimulates specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) to restore health and balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit. Acupuncture therapies combines Chinese medicine...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncture +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)
Chinese medicine is a whole medical system that seeks to balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit and restore health. It combines theory (philosophies and principles) and practices including acupuncture, moxibustion, medical Qi Gong, Chinese...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncturist +2
Diploma of Sustainable Operations MSS50122
Looking to develop your skills to manage and measure your organisation’s carbon footprint? By studying this course, you will be equipped with the technical and theoretical skills to ensure your organisation is adhering and optimising its sustainability...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Anywhere
Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (Perth Only) SIR30116
The SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy prepares you for a rewarding career as a pharmacy assistant in a retail pharmacy setting. This course equips you with the skills to provide excellent customer service, assist with pharmacy products, an...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Pharmacy Assistant +4
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
The Certificate III in Individual Support equips students with the skills and knowledge to provide person-centred care to individuals in aged care, disability, or community settings. This course is ideal for those passionate about supporting people to...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +4
Bachelor of Cyber Security (VIC, NSW, QLD and WA Only) CRS1401441
The Bachelor of Cyber Security offered by AIBI Higher Education is a technical course designed to prepare students for entry-level roles leading to an exciting career in Cyber Security. Students will first learn the foundations of information technolog...
Study Method In-class
Location Brisbane Queensland +3
Job Outcomes Entry-level Cybersecurity An... +4
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30125
To work in Early Childhood Education and Care you are required to have an Education and Care qualification. With our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification you will gain skills and knowledge to work in a range of early chil...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +4
Certificate III in Fitness SIS30321
This exciting course is the fitness industry’s entry-level qualification and it provides a thorough education on the human body, and the best & safest techniques for maximising its potential. With a Certificate III in Fitness you will gain the know...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Gym & Fitness Instructor +2
Complete Personal Trainer Program – Certificates III & IV in Fitness SIS30321,SIS40221
Our Personal Trainer Program is a combined Certificate III and Certificate IV in Fitness course that is simply the very best way to become a fully qualified personal trainer. NHFA is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, implementation, and to d...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Personal Trainer +1
Online courses also available
Loading...
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
