Workers Screening Check
- Care Connect Coordination
- May 1
- 2 min read
Are you constantly running into issues with support workers who don’t have a valid Worker Screening Check?
This is a more common problem than it should be—particularly when working with independent or privately engaged support workers. While not every arrangement makes it a strict legal requirement, it is widely considered best practice across the sector. And more importantly, it’s a key safeguard for participants.
Why the Worker Screening Check Matters
The NDIS Worker Screening Check is designed to protect people with disability by ensuring that workers who provide supports do not pose an unacceptable risk. It assesses a person’s history across multiple jurisdictions and determines whether they are cleared to work in the NDIS.
When a support worker has a valid clearance, it shows that they:
Have undergone appropriate background screening
Are committed to working within the NDIS framework
Take their role and responsibilities seriously
Understand the importance of participant safety and wellbeing
If a worker does not have this check, it raises questions—not just about compliance, but about professionalism and accountability.
Do All Workers Need It?
This is where confusion often arises.
Registered NDIS providers must ensure all relevant workers have a clearance. This is non-negotiable.
Unregistered providers and sole traders may not always be legally required to hold a clearance depending on the state and arrangement—but they are strongly encouraged to obtain one.
Self-managed participants acting as employers also have responsibilities when engaging workers directly.
Even where it’s not mandated, many participants, plan managers, and support coordinators now require it as a condition of engagement.
**Independent and Sole Trader Workers**
If your support worker is operating independently (as a sole trader or self-employed), they are generally considered both the employer and the worker. This means they are responsible for applying for their own screening check.
They can follow the guidance here - https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/workforce/worker-screening#paragraph-id-11111
**Unregistered Providers**
For organisations or individuals delivering supports without NDIS registration, there is still clear guidance available on how to meet expectations around worker screening:
https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/workforce/worker-screening/worker-screening-unregistered-providers
**Self-Managed Participants**
If you are self-managing your NDIS plan and directly employing support workers, you are effectively taking on the role of employer.
This includes ensuring your workers meet appropriate safety and screening standards. - More information can be found here using this link for the Workers Screening Check.
When Should a Worker Redo Their Screening Check?
Worker Screening Checks are not indefinite. They are generally valid for five years, but there are situations where a new check may be required sooner, such as:
Moving between states or jurisdictions
Expiry of the existing clearance
Changes in personal circumstances that may affect eligibility
It’s important to regularly verify that a worker’s clearance is current and recognised in your state.
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