The NDIS Worker Screening Check (NDIS Check) is a mechanism which aims to protect and prevent people with disability from experiencing harm or unsafe supports or services delivered under the NDIS.
Now in effect across Australia, it replaces the different screening arrangements operating in each state and territory, setting a uniform standard for all NDIS workers.
The NDIS Check assesses that individuals seeking to work (or already working) in certain NDIS roles do not present an unacceptable risk of harm to the people they support.
It will consider applicants’ known criminal history and other related information, and result in either a clearance (cleared to work with NDIS participants) or an exclusion (excluded from working with people with disability).
The NDIS Check comes as part of the NDIS Commission’s Practice Standards, which will build NDIS participants’ awareness of what quality service provision they should expect from registered providers.
In Western Australia, there will be a ‘phasing in period’ to allow providers and employees time to meet new requirements.
Some workers won’t need to apply immediately, dependent on their circumstances of employment and whether they already have an acceptable check.
Minister for Disability Services, the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC says the NDIS Check will become an important tool to protect NDIS participants and prevent harm.
“People with disability have the right to be provided with safe and quality supports and services,” he said.
“I am pleased to see a consistent national approach to worker screening processes for NDIS workers coming into place.
“This will be a vital tool to ensure the protection of some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
Communities has partnered with the Department of Transport to deliver the NDIS Check – the online application process will be completed via DoTDirect; the NDIS Worker Screening Unit (within Communities) will undertake the checking and assessment.
More information can be found at www.ndiswsu.wa.gov.au.
