Author: Manager

What’s more, since the launch of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), thousands of new support worker jobs have been created, with ongoing opportunities for the future.

Why should I consider a career as a support worker?

As a disability support worker, you’ll make a positive difference in other people’s lives. If you like variety, you can expect each day as a support worker to be different and offer an abundance of learning experiences.

It may not always be easy but the joy of supporting others will keep you interested and motivated. 

Being a support worker also offers great work-life balance, where you can work hours to suit your schedule. There are plenty of job opportunities, with an 70,000 new NDIS support worker jobs expected in the next three years alone.

What will the job consist of?

The amount of assistance you’ll provide will vary depending on the abilities and the health of the person you’re working with.

A disability support worker provides daily personal, physical, and emotional support.

Daily tasks in a support worker role could consist of: developing programs to support clients to develop the skills they need to live independently; organising and going on social outings; completing household tasks; being a companion and offering support during daily activities; helping people with disability maintain contact with family and friends; and helping develop and maintain independence and safety in personal care, health care and hygiene.

 What qualifications and experience do I need?

Anyone with the passion and drive to help others can become a disability support worker, even if you do not have any previous experience or qualifications. Completing a Certificate III and IV in Disability Work can improve your employment opportunities and may also lead to management and team leader roles with organisations such as Nextt.

At Nextt, we are looking for support workers to join our team. We aim to create a culture of proven excellence, with a focus on creating high-value and personalised support systems designed to help our clients get more out of life. We employ support workers who are compassionate, reliable, and flexible, with a willingness to go above and beyond. Our training programs have been designed to guide our employees through all the vital learning and development to become an exceptional support worker.

For further information on becoming a support worker download our free guide, or contact us on 1300 576 097 and receive advice from one of our friendly team members.

Lachlan is an athlete and member of the Special Olympics Team.  He participates in both swimming and basketball and has achieved many trophies and medals which he proudly displays in his home.

From everyone at Nextt, congratulations Lachlan!  We are all extremely proud of everything you have achieved, and we are thrilled to share your news here.

Here Lachlan is seen carrying the Torch through the city of Brisbane, assisted by local police and friends.

Nextt came together to celebrate International Day of People with Disability across the nation. There were a range of events held in our offices and SIL houses, including our QLD Eight Mile Plains office morning tea event with some of their wonderful clients and Support Workers. 

Check out the photos below to see what we all got up to on this important day.

The artwork on this card was designed by Laurie, one of our amazing clients.  For the last three years, Laurie has been using painting as a medium to help her heal and cope with mental health challenges.

Art has always been a part of Laurie’s life to some degree, and it has become a major part of her recovery journey.  Since putting brush to canvas, Laurie’s life has become much more positive.  It has reignited her passion and she’s loving every minute of it. 

Laurie has a Facebook page called “Art by Laurie” where she showcases her original artworks.

Scott transitioned to Nextt from Sorento Care in January 2017, where he was supported in one of our disability accommodation units.

Due to his disability, he was not able to able to navigate the NDIS and had minimal funding.  As a result, he was not receiving the allied health and medical support he needed.

Nextt supported Scott to apply for initial NDIA funding in June 2019. Unfortunately, the initial support budget he received did not include funding for Support Coordination – which Scott desperately needed to connect him with much needed services and ensure he had choice and control in his life.  A review was completed, and Scott received additional funds for Support Coordination in his new NDIS plan as well as funding for in-home supports. 

With the assistance of Lucia Imbrogno from Nextt Service Delivery and Eddy Roger, Nextt Support Coordinator, Scott was put in contact with an Allied Health team.  Eddy introduced Scott to both a Psychologist and Occupational Therapist.  Eddy also assisted him to get a state tribunal order through SACAT so he would have a Guardianship order in place to be supported in all his life decisions.

 In October 2020, Eddy worked with Scott to find a suitable home with daily supports.

 Scott has made his home a home with his toys and much-loved Power Ranger Morphers.

 His next step is to transition into Supported Independent Living, to make sure all his needs are being met, and that he gets more out of life.