NDIS Worker Screening Check
The NDIS Worker Screening Check is a national background check for people who work with NDIS participants. You apply through the worker screening unit in your state or territory, a clearance is generally valid for 5 years, and it can be used across Australia. Registered NDIS providers must make sure workers in risk-assessed roles hold a clearance; many unregistered providers, plan-managed and self-managed participants ask for one too.
How to apply
- Get your NDIS Worker Screening ID by starting the application with your state or territory’s worker screening unit (for example Service NSW, Service Victoria or Blue Card Services in Queensland).
- Prove your identity online or in person, and pay the state fee if one applies.
- Link an employer: the provider you work for verifies your application in the NDIS Worker Screening Database. Independent workers with an ABN can generally nominate themselves or the organisation engaging them, depending on the state.
- Wait for the outcome, which is recorded in the national database. Some checks take days, others weeks.
Key facts
| Item | What applies |
|---|---|
| Valid for | Generally 5 years, unless revoked |
| Works across states | Yes, it’s a national clearance |
| Required for | Risk-assessed roles with registered NDIS providers |
| Ongoing monitoring | Cleared workers are continuously monitored for new records |
| Fee | Set by each state or territory; volunteers are often free |
Related requirements
- The NDIS Code of Conduct applies to every NDIS worker, registered or not.
- Registered providers also require the free NDIS worker orientation module, “Quality, Safety and You”.
- A Working with Children Check may also be needed if you support children; it’s a separate check.
Ready to start working? ShiftInvoice makes NDIS invoices with the right support item numbers and price limits for plan managers and self-managed participants. Pro keeps your participants, logs shifts with progress notes and makes weekly invoices. A$15 a month.
Create an NDIS invoiceQuestions
Do unregistered support workers need a screening check?
It isn’t required by NDIS rules for most unregistered providers, but participants and plan managers often ask for it, and platforms usually require it. It also shows you take safety seriously.
Can I work while my application is pending?
Registered providers may allow limited work under supervision in some situations; check the rules in your state and with the provider.
Do I need a new check if I move state?
No. The clearance is national, so it stays valid if you move or work in another state.
Sources: NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, worker screening guidance; state and territory worker screening units. Checked 1 November 2026. General information; processes differ between states.