What is the NDIS Screening Check?
The NDIS Worker Screening Check evaluates the safety of individuals seeking employment or currently employed in roles involving people with disabilities. Conducted by the Worker Screening Unit in the relevant state or territory, this assessment determines whether the person poses any potential risks and is eligible to work in specific roles with individuals having disabilities.
Based on the outcome, the person is either cleared for certain roles or excluded. Registered NDIS providers are mandated to engage only those workers who have received clearance for designated roles, referred to as risk assessed roles.
Registered NDIS Providers are obligated to ensure that their workers in risk assessed roles possess an acceptable check that meets the transitional and special arrangements applicable to the state or territory in which they provide support and services. The management of worker screening units is delegated to individual states and territories. Registered NDIS providers bear the responsibility of ensuring that their workers engaged in risk assessed roles possess clearance under the NDIS Worker Screening Check.
Post the commencement of the NDIS Worker Screening Check, registered NDIS Providers may still acknowledge a person’s acceptable check if the individual lacks an NDIS worker screening clearance.
According to the NDIS website: “The period of time that an acceptable check can continue to be recognised depends on the state or territory where the person provides supports or services.
Please visit the transitional and special arrangements page for more information”.
When is an NDIS Screening Check needed?
To meet the requirements, an NDIS Screening Check is needed when individuals are engaging or intending to engage in a risk-assessed role for a Registered NDIS Provider. The NDIS Worker Screening Check or other acceptable check must align with the transitional and special arrangements applicable to the role and the state or territory.
Where is an NDIS Screening Check performed?
The NDIS Worker Screening Check is administered by the Worker Screening Unit in the state or territory where the application is submitted. The determination of clearance or exclusion for an individual is also made by the Worker Screening Unit.
How Does the NDIS Screening Check Operate in each state of Australia?
Workers who provide NDIS supports and services for Registered NDIS Providers, unregistered NDIS Providers, or as self-managed Participants have the option to initiate the application process for an NDIS Worker Screening Check through their designated state or territory agency.
Each agency operates a dedicated ‘worker screening unit’ responsible for receiving and processing applications for the NDIS Worker Screening Check. These units also conduct thorough risk assessments to ascertain whether a worker qualifies for clearance.
Upon submitting an application for the NDIS Worker Screening Check a fee, determined by the respective state or territory, is applicable.
For comprehensive information regarding the application procedure in a specific state or territory, check the following links.
- Australian Capital Territory: Access Canberra
- New South Wales: Service NSW
- Northern Territory: SAFE NT
- Queensland: Disability Worker Screening
- South Australia: Department of Human Services Screening Unit
- Tasmania: Consumer, Building and Occupational Services
- Victoria: Department of Justice and Community Safety
- Western Australia: Department of Communities
Queensland NDIS Screening Check
In Queensland, if you’re looking to engage in work or volunteer activities involving individuals with disabilities, securing a disability worker screening clearance might be a prerequisite.
If you possess a valid NDIS Worker Screening clearance issued in a different Australian State or Territory, there’s no necessity to re-apply for a separate NDIS worker screening clearance in Queensland.
Before proceeding with registration, make sure to confirm your eligibility to apply for the clearance.
To check your eligibility you may do so using the Queensland Government’s NDIS Worker Screening check calculator.
Or if you are looking to register in Queensland you may do so through the Queensland Government portal here.
New South Wales NDIS Screening Check
Individuals providing assistance or services within the framework of the NDIS must obtain a worker screening clearance. In New South Wales, this particular clearance is known as the NDIS Worker Check (NDISWC).
The NDIS Worker Check (NDISWC) holds a validity of 5 years and remains applicable across Australia for any NDIS-related position and employer.
The application process occurs through your MyServiceNSW Account. Upon approval, the ‘NDIS Worker Check’ tile will be included on your account’s ‘My Services’ page. Unlike a physical certificate or card, your certification is digital.
Managing your NDISWC involves tasks like updating personal details, adding employers, checking status, and more. All these actions can be performed by accessing your MyServiceNSW Account and logging in.
Eligibility: New South Wales NDIS Screening Check (NDISWC)
To qualify for an NDIS Worker Check (NDISWC), verification by your NDIS employer is essential. Without current or impending employment with an NDIS provider, application for an NDISWC is not permissible.
This clearance is mandatory for positions meeting specific criteria:
- Involvement with NDIS participants beyond incidental contact
- Engaging in the delivery of specified supports and services
Designation as key personnel
- Consult your employer to determine if obtaining an NDISWC is necessary for your role within the organisation.
NOTE: It’s important to note that relocating interstate or altering employers or roles does not necessitate reapplication for the NDISWC.
You may apply to for an NDISWC here.
Victoria NDIS Screening Check
As of February 1, 2021, employees engaged in risk-assessed roles for a Registered NDIS Provider in Victoria must obtain a clearance.
Those who are under 18 and require the manual application form can initiate the process by submitting an inquiry through the Victoria State Government’s contact link. This will enable access to the necessary form for application.
To undergo the online screening process, ensure you have:
- Information about your organisation or self-managed participant
- A smartphone for the ID verification process
- Original identification documents
- Assistance available if needed
Step One
Please ensure you have one of the following identification documents available:
- Australian passport (valid for more than 3 years before expiration)
- Printed Australian birth certificate
- Foreign passport connected to a valid Australian visa
- Valid ImmiCard
- Australian citizenship certificate
Step Two
Make sure you have one of the following documents at hand:
- Medicare card
- Australian driver’s license
- Australian driver learner permit
Step Three
Prepare a third distinct document from the previous two categories. Here are your options:
- Australian passport (valid for more than 3 years before expiration)
- Printed Australian birth certificate
- Foreign passport connected to a valid Australian visa
- Valid ImmiCard
- Australian citizenship certificate
- Medicare card
- Australian driver’s license
- Australian driver learner permit
- Marriage certificate issued by Births, Deaths, and Marriages (not the ceremonial one from your wedding day)
If the names on your documents don’t match, you’ll require a change of name document or a marriage certificate issued by Births, Deaths, and Marriages to rectify this.
Additionally, ensure that your first two documents include a photograph. They cannot accept photos or scanned versions of documents. If you lack any of these necessary documents, please reach out for further assistance.
Western Australia NDIS Screening Check
The DoTDirect portal hosts the NDIS Check online application in Western Australia. Access it by logging in or registering for a DoTDirect account. Upon logging in, opt for ‘NDIS’ on the top toolbar to commence your application.
Completing the application requires a visit to a Department of Transport Driver and Vehicle Service Centre for finalisation.
In cases where reaching a Department of Transport Driver and Vehicle Service Centre isn’t feasible, applicants might be eligible for an alternate method to verify their identity. This option can be requested during the online application process within DoTDirect.
To view the closest Department of Transport Driver and Vehicle Service Centre Visit: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/applying-ndis-check
In Western Australia, a worker can start working upon application under specific conditions:
- Completion of the application with verified identity.
- Verification as an NDIS worker by the employer or employer provider (confirmation via email from the Screening Unit).
- No withdrawal or cancellation of the application.
- Absence of prior exclusion.
- No imposition of an interim bar due to a concerning criminal record or relevant information. An interim bar halts work during application processing.
It’s crucial to note that Registered NDIS Providers must comply with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (Practice Standards—Worker Screening) Rules 2018, available on legislation.gov.au.
The Western Australian Department of Communities has a useful page to help you further understand the application process, and answer questions such as:
- Check the status of my application
- Can an application be withdrawn?
- What happens after application of a Western Australian NDIS Check?
- Applying in another State or in Western Australia
Is a Western Australia NDIS Screening Check Valid Nationally?
Yes. The NDIS Check clearance is valid nationwide. Once granted in any state or territory, it holds transferable status across all of Australia.
This clearance, once obtained, remains valid and undergoes continuous monitoring in every state and territory. There’s no need for reapplication if you engage in NDIS-related work in other states, as long as your existing clearance remains valid.
South Australia NDIS Screening Check
If you’re employed by a Registered NDIS Provider, there’s a requirement for a worker screening clearance, known as an NDIS worker check in South Australia.
Specific personnel within NDIS Providers must possess this check before commencing work in South Australia. Individuals cannot work in SA until their NDIS worker check is finalised.
When your employer specifies the need for an NDIS worker check, you’re responsible for the application. Employers cannot initiate this process on behalf of their employees.
These checks are valid for five years and can be utilised with any employer in Australia. Renewal can be sought if the current check is due to expire within three months.
Who Needs an NDIS Screening Check in South Australia?
This link will provide advice on the criteria for eligibility for those wishing to work in the NDIS.
Applying for NDIS worker check In South Australia
Individual NDIS Screening Check
Your employer will indicate whether an NDIS worker check is necessary for you. In case your current check is nearing expiration within three months, you’re eligible to request a new NDIS worker check. Remember to have your employer’s NDIS Employer ID ready when applying.
For additional details regarding the application process, you can refer to the following link:
Sole Traders, Contractors, or Self-Employed NDIS Worker NDIS Screening Check
If you operate as a sole trader, contractor, or self-employed individual, the process requires applying for a check individually and verifying it via your NDIS portal.
For registration as an NDIS Provider or access to the NDIS portal as a self-managed Participant or unregistered Provider, contacting the NDIS Commission is necessary.
It’s important to note that organisations cannot initiate an NDIS worker check.
Follow this link to start your application.
NDIS Worker NDIS Screening Check For Employers & Organisations
Organisations are unable to initiate an NDIS worker check. If your employee requires a check, they must apply online individually.
Your employee will require your NDIS Employer ID to finalise their application.
Verifying your employee’s application through your NDIS portal will be necessary.
For registration as an NDIS provider or access to the NDIS portal as a self-managed participant or unregistered provider, reaching out to the NDIS Commission is advisable.
Northern Territory NDIS Worker Screen
The oversight of NDIS Worker Screening within the Northern Territory is under the jurisdiction of the Screening Assessment for Employment Northern Territory, recognised by its acronym SAFE NT.
You have the option to apply online through the SAFE NT Online Services page. To complete the application, you’ll require:
- An active email address for correspondence
- Both your current Australian residential and postal addresses
- Detailed residential address history spanning 5 years, including international residences
- Employer details for verification (request their employer ID)
- Information about your working with children (ochre card), if applicable
- Valid proof of identity documents that can be uploaded during the online application process
- For volunteers, it’s necessary to upload the completed Volunteer Declaration Form
Tasmania NDIS Worker Screen
To apply for an NDIS Worker Screening in Tasmania, you must first have a valid registration to work with vulnerable people including children, with an NDIS Endorsement. More information on this process can be found from Services Tasmania. It is important to note that in Tasmania, you cannot apply for the NDIS Endorsement if you do not have a current NDIS employer.
Once you have received your registration to work with vulnerable people, you can then apply for the NDIS Worker Screening through Tasmania’s Consumer, Building and Occupational Services Department.
Australian Capital Territory NDIS Worker Screen
If you’re employed or volunteer at a certified NDIS Provider, there might be a requirement for an NDIS Worker clearance alongside your Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) registration.
Under the WWVP legislation in the ACT, NDIS activities fall under regulated activities.
The status of NDIS workers’ screening is maintained in the NDIS Worker Screening Database.
To ensure access, the employer must be registered and listed within the NDIS Worker Screening Database (NWSD). Request the NDIS employer ID from your employer to choose them from the provided list.
You may nominate:
- A registered NDIS provider
- An unregistered NDIS provider
- A self-managed participant
- Yourself – if self-employed and have access to the NWSD.
When your NDIS clearance is approved, your WWVP registration card will display ‘NDIS ACTIVITIES – Yes’.
Hoever, having ‘NDIS ACTIVITIES – No’ on the card doesn’t prohibit working for NDIS Providers if either holding NDIS clearance isn’t obligatory or if the role doesn’t fall under a risk-assessed category.
Who needs to undergo NDIS Screening Check
In compliance with the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2020 or the NDIS Worker Screening Act, individuals involved in risk-assessed roles for registered NDIS Providers are required to undergo the NDIS Worker Screening Check and acquire clearance. This obligation extends to contractors and volunteers. Before starting work in specified roles with registered NDIS providers, individuals must obtain an NDIS Clearance. It’s crucial to note that working without a valid NDIS Check clearance or without having initiated the application process is an offense, subject to penalties. Adherence to this mandate is vital to maintain the integrity of the screening process and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with disabilities under the National Disability Insurance Scheme framework.
Worker Screening Checks Required for Registered NDIS Providers
This flowchart outlines the screening checks needed for Registered NDIS Providers supporting NDIS
Participants with workers in specific risk roles.
* In some states or territories, local laws may, in certain circumstances, permit a registered NDIS provider to allow a worker to begin working in a risk assessed role after they apply for a Worker Screening Check but before they have been granted a clearance.
If the laws of your state or territory allow you to engage the worker in a risk assessed role after submitting an application, but before an outcome has been issued, you must have appropriate safeguards in place.
For more information, refer to:
- NDIS (Practice Standards) Worker Screening Rules 2018
- NDIS Worker Screening requirements on the NDIS Commission website
What is a NDIS risk assessed role?
A risk-assessed role can be a key personnel position within an organisation or an individual, as outlined in section 11A of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013. Key personnel refers to significant roles like a CEO or a Board Member, indicating that these individuals hold positions of considerable responsibility and authority within the organisation.
A risk-assessed role is also one where the regular responsibilities involve directly providing specific supports or services to a person with a disability. This means that the person in this role is directly engaged in delivering specialised assistance tailored to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. Whether it’s providing direct care, specialised services, or targeted supports, the core aspect of the role revolves around hands-on involvement in helping people with disabilities access the necessary assistance and resources they require.
This role entails tasks that go beyond occasional interactions and may involve various responsibilities, including physical contact with individuals with disabilities. Such contact might be essential to deliver customised care or assistance aligned with their specific needs.
Building rapport with an NDIS Participant is also a fundamental and regular part of the job. This means that forming a connection and understanding with the individual is not just a one-time occurrence but an ongoing aspect of the daily duties as these are deemed essential for effective communication and support.
Finally, a risk-assessed role may involve having contact with multiple people with disabilities as part of delivering specialised support or services. This can happen in various settings, including disability accommodation facilities specifically designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
To sum up, all personnel employed by a Registered NDIS Provider, whether having direct or indirect contact with individuals with disabilities, must undergo a clearance process and acquire an NDIS Screening Check. Defining roles as risk-assessed is crucial to ensure precise and targeted assistance for NDIS Participants. This approach guarantees that supports are provided safely and effectively, fully considering the distinctive challenges and needs inherent in assisting individuals with disabilities.
Highlighting that specific states might have supplementary requirements, it’s crucial to seek information from the relevant state when obtaining an NDIS Screening Check for the intended work location.
Exceptions for a NDIS Screening Check
If a worker employed by a registered NDIS provider isn’t in a role assessed for risk, having an acceptable check or an NDIS worker screening clearance isn’t mandatory. However, the NDIS provider, your employer, might still request one, even for non-risk-assessed roles like administrative tasks within a disability organisation.
For individuals working with self-managed Participants or unregistered Providers, obtaining an NDIS worker screening clearance or an acceptable check isn’t compulsory under transitional and special arrangements. Nonetheless, self-managed participants and unregistered providers retain the right to ask workers providing supports and services to demonstrate possession of an NDIS worker screening clearance or an acceptable check. Alternatively, they can request that the worker initiates the application process for one.
NDIS Screening Check Validity
In every state, it’s necessary for workers to undergo an NDIS Worker Screening Check. However, if someone works in two different states, the employer must make sure they have the acceptable checks in both places.
The good thing is, the NDIS Worker Screening Check is accepted all across the country. This means workers can easily switch between different jobs, departments, organisations, or even move to another state or territory without needing to go through the process of getting another check for a period of five years. It makes things smoother for workers who might have different roles or move around within the NDIS system.
A Step by Step Process for facilitating NDIS Worker Screening Check
The NDIS Commission has detailed in a flow chart just for Registered Providers how to handle screening checks for their workers. Here are the main steps involved:
Online Application Submission
Workers initiate the process by completing an online application through the state or territory NDIS Worker Screening Unit (WSU).
During the application, workers are required to nominate their employer or identify themselves as a self-managed participant.
Payment and Confirmation
Payment is remitted to the NDIS Worker Screening Unit (WSU).
The WSU then verifies the worker’s identity and forwards the application to the NDIS Worker Screening Database (NWSD).
Employer Verification
An automatic email notification is triggered, prompting the employer or provider to log onto the NWSD and verify the worker’s details.
Worker Identification on NWSD
Upon verification, the worker is identified on the database and establishes a ‘linked’ connection with the provider.
Risk Assessment
The WSU conducts a risk assessment of the worker, evaluating the information provided during the application process.
Clearance or Exclusion Determination
Based on the risk assessment, the WSU determines whether the worker qualifies for clearance or exclusion.
The results are communicated to the NWSD.
Notification to Linked Employer
An additional email is generated and sent to the linked employer, providing them with information about the screening outcome.
This systematic process ensures a structured and transparent approach to NDIS Worker Screening Checks, facilitating effective communication between workers, employers, and the relevant screening authorities.
Why is the NDIS Worker Screening Check Necessary?
The primary aim of implementing the screening process is to reduce the risk of individuals who might cause harm from engaging in work with people with disabilities and NDIS Participants. This government screening initiative significantly enhances the safety and well-being of NDIS Participants by conducting a comprehensive assessment of information. This inclusive approach enables Providers to gain a detailed understanding of whether an applicant poses a potential risk, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their workforce.
The NDIS worker screening check expands its influence by ensuring that self-managed Participants and non-registered Providers access the same crucial information as their registered counterparts. This equal access aims to create an environment where all Participants can make informed and safe decisions, regardless of their Provider status. As a result, the screening process becomes a vital tool in promoting safety and enabling well-informed choices within the NDIS framework.
