What it Is, and Where You Can Work
Disability work involves supporting people with disability to live as independently, safely and meaningfully as possible. In Victoria, this work is closely connected to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and focuses on person-centred, rights-based support.
Disability workers provide practical, emotional and social support to people with physical, intellectual, sensory or psychosocial disabilities. In Victoria, this work may take place in clients’ homes, supported accommodation, community and day programs, schools or employment settings, and recreational or social environments.
You work directly with people with disability across all life stages, as well as their families, carers and support coordinators. Employers typically include disability service providers, community organisations, not-for-profits and NDIS-registered organisations.
Many people find disability work rewarding because it allows them to build genuine relationships and make a visible difference in someone’s daily life. Career pathways include senior disability support worker, support coordinator, behaviour support roles (with further study), and leadership or management positions.
Study options for getting started may be accessed via a vocational institution’s health and community department, such as Kangan Institute. Courses are also available for health and community-related fields at regional TAFE.