Employment and the NDIS: Finding the Right Support to Reach Your Work Goals

Having a job isn’t just about earning money; it’s about building confidence, connecting with others, and creating a sense of purpose and independence. For people living with disability, finding and keeping the right job can come with challenges, but the NDIS offers support to help you reach your employment goals.

Whether you’re looking for your first job, wanting to return to work, or exploring a new career path, there are supports available to help you take the next step.

Can the NDIS help with employment?

Yes — while the NDIS doesn’t directly fund wages or job placements, it can fund supports that prepare you for work, build your capacity, and help you stay in employment long term.

Employment support through the NDIS falls under Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job, as well as other areas, such as Core Supports or School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES).

Types of employment supports available through the NDIS

Depending on your goals and circumstances, you may be able to access supports like:

1. Employment-related assessments and planning

Support to explore your strengths, interests, and work preferences. This can include help from a social worker, support coordinator, or allied health professional.

2. Skill development and training

This could include building skills in:

• Communication and teamwork
• Using public transport to get to work
• Time management and organisation
• Work health and safety
• Technology use

3. Help finding and applying for jobs

Supports can include:

• Writing a resume or job application
• Preparing for job interviews
• Practising confidence and self-advocacy

4. On-the-job support

If you already have a job, your plan may include support workers to assist you in learning tasks, settling into routines, or managing workplace challenges.

5. Assistance from other programs

The NDIS can work alongside other services like:

• Disability Employment Services (DES)
• Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs)
• Local job providers and social enterprises

Support coordinators or recovery coaches can help you connect with these services if needed.

Setting employment goals in your plan

Employment goals might include:

• “I want to build my confidence to apply for part-time work”
• “I’d like to try volunteering to see what kind of work I enjoy”
• “I want to get a job in hospitality or retail”
• “I want to build my work skills while I finish school”

It’s essential to be clear and specific about your employment goals during your planning meeting or plan reassessment so that the NDIA can fund the appropriate supports.

Overcoming barriers to employment

Some common challenges people face when it comes to work include:

• Anxiety or low confidence
• Communication or social difficulties
• Transport issues
• Lack of work experience
• Past experiences of discrimination or stigma

With the right team around you, these barriers can be addressed one step at a time. It’s okay to start small — progress looks different for everyone.

How Newcastle Social Workers can help

We can work with you to:

• Explore and set meaningful employment goals
• Connect you with the right providers or programs
• Build the skills you need to feel confident at work
• Provide support coordination or recovery coaching tailored to your employment journey

Whether you’re looking to get your foot in the door or need help figuring out your next move, we’re here to support you.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you build confidence, skills, and independence through employment.