The NDIS Screening Check is a vital step in ensuring that people working with NDIS participants are safe, qualified, and suitable for their roles. At Unlocking My Ability, we take participant safety and quality of support seriously. This is the reason why we make sure every team member passes the NDIS Screening Check before they begin delivering services.
Whether you’re a participant, family member, or potential worker, understanding what the check involves and why it matters can help you feel more confident in the NDIS system. In this blog, we’ll explain what the screening check is, who needs it, and how it contributes to a safer and more reliable disability support sector.
The NDIS Screening Check: What It Is
The NDIS Screening Check is an official background check required for workers who provide NDIS-funded services and supports. Conducted by the Worker Screening Unit in each state or territory, it is designed to assess whether a person poses any risk to people with disabilities.
The screening check includes a review of the following:
o Criminal history
o Workplace misconduct
o Disciplinary records
o Relevant past behaviour
o Any other information deemed necessary to assess risk
Once approved, the individual receives clearance to work in risk-assessed roles or positions that involve direct or ongoing contact with NDIS participants.
Who Needs It?
Anyone working in a risk-assessed role for a registered NDIS provider must pass the NDIS Screening Check. This includes:
o Support workers
o Allied health professionals
o Coordinators of supports
o Plan managers
o Administrative staff (in some cases, depending on access to participant information)
For unregistered providers or self-managed participants, the check is not mandatory but is highly recommended.
At Unlocking My Ability, we hold ourselves to a high standard, whether the NDIS requires it or not. That’s why we ensure that all our team members undergo the check as part of our onboarding process.
How the Screening Process Works
Workers apply for the check through the Worker Screening Unit in their state or territory. The process typically involves the following:
o Online application and ID verification
o A link to a registered NDIS provider (required for most checks)
o A risk assessment conducted by the screening unit
o Notification of clearance or exclusion
Clearances are valid for up to five years, though this may vary slightly by jurisdiction, and providers are notified if there are any changes to a worker’s status during that time. Employers are also responsible for verifying that each staff member has an up-to-date and valid check.
Why It Matters
The NDIS Screening Check helps protect people with disabilities by filtering out individuals who may pose a risk. It strengthens the integrity of the workforce and reinforces the rights of participants to feel safe, respected, and well cared for.
For participants and families, knowing that a provider like Unlocking My Ability only employs screened and cleared staff provides peace of mind. It’s one more way we create a safe, empowering environment for every person we support.
The NDIS workers screening check is also an important part of the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework. This national standard ensures that all providers across Australia maintain consistent safety standards for workers providing NDIS-funded services and supports.
Helping You Unlock Your Abilities
Unlocking My Ability is here to support individuals and families at every stage of their NDIS journey. From checking your eligibility to helping prepare applications and build your capacity, we’re ready to assist. If you’re feeling uncertain about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to a team who truly understands the system and can help you get the support you need.
