From 1 February 2021, a new NDIS Worker Screening Check will be introduced. The NSW NDIS Worker Check (NDISWC) will be mandatory for workers of registered NDIS providers in risk assessed roles.

The NDISWC website is now live and provides additional information regarding the application process. Workers are not able to apply for an NDISWC until 1 February.

The NSW Worker Screening Unit has produced a fact sheet [PDF | Word] for workers either working with, or about to commence working with, NDIS registered providers in NSW.

Providers are reminded that from 1 February 2021, an existing national police check or Working With Children Check (WWCC) (that fulfils the requirements of an interim ‘acceptable check’ under the NDIS for NSW) will remain a valid NDIS worker screening check until it expires.

Provider FAQ:

Q: Who needs an NDISWC?

The NDIS Worker Screening rules outline who needs an NDIS worker screening clearance to work. The NDISWC will be available from 1 February 2021. It will not be possible to apply for an NDISWC prior to that date.

An NDISWC is only required when a worker’s existing acceptable screening check (such as a national police check or WWCC) expires, or they are a new worker. This means most workers are unlikely to need an NDISWC for some time.

Q: How long will it take for an NDISWC to be processed?

The time required to process and make a decision relating to an NDISWC will vary depending on each individual’s circumstances. For example, whether they have no criminal records and how quickly this can be confirmed.

The applicant has 2 weeks to visit a Service NSW centre after they complete the online application. Employers then have 30 days in which to verify the application before the application assessment process can begin.

The NDIS Commission Worker Screening rules allow workers to be employed prior to receiving the outcome of their NDISWC in certain circumstances. You can find more information about this on the NDIS Commission website.

Q: Can an employer pay for the NDISWC?

The NDISWC will cost $80.00 in NSW. This will be payable by workers applying for NDISWC. Employers wishing to pay for the NDISWC on behalf of their staff will need to make arrangements to do so such as reimbursements. The NDISWC will be free for volunteers.

Q: What additional records do providers need to keep in relation to NDISWC?

You are required to keep records of those people who require a worker screening check and what their screening status is in order to ensure worker checks are maintained. The NDIS Commission website provides additional information for NDIS registered providers regarding record keeping.

Q: Will workers working with NDIS participants under the age of 18 still need a WWCC where this was previously required?

Generally, where a worker is in a risk-assessed role and providing services to NDIS participants under the age of 18 they will require a WWCC and an NDISWC.

NDS members are reminded that NDS has produced a range of webinars and other resources related to the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework and NDIS Commission requirements. These are available on our Quality and Safeguarding Hub.