Yes — the NDIS can absolutely help you find and keep a job. Through funded supports like job coaching, skills training and workplace assistance, participants across Australia are building real careers, not just “getting by.” Here’s exactly how it works.
How Does the NDIS Support Employment?
The NDIS funds supports under the Capacity Building category to help participants become job-ready and stay employed long-term. This can include resume help, interview coaching, on-the-job support, and ongoing check-ins with a job coach once you’re hired.
What Is NDIS Capacity Building Support for Jobs?
NDIS capacity building support is funding aimed at growing your independence and real-world skills, including those needed for paid work. Unlike core supports (day-to-day help), capacity building is about progress — think confidence, communication and workplace readiness.
Typical funded activities include:
- Employment-related assessments and career planning
- Support to identify strengths and suitable job types
- Funded Support Coordinators to link you with employment providers
- Ongoing mentoring once you’ve started a role
Are There Disability Skill Development Programs Through NDIS?
Yes, and they’re often the starting point before job placement. Disability skill development programs help participants practise workplace behaviours, digital literacy, money handling and communication skills in a safe, structured setting before entering open employment.
These programs commonly cover:
| Skill Area | Example Activity |
| Communication | Practising workplace conversations |
| Digital literacy | Using email, rosters, timesheets |
| Punctuality & routine | Building consistent daily habits |
| Money management | Understanding pay slips, budgeting |
| Self-advocacy | Requesting reasonable adjustments |
What Happens When I’m Moving From School to Work?
This is where NDIS life stage transition services come in. If you’re leaving school, TAFE or university and heading into the workforce, these services help bridge that gap with structured planning, work experience placements and connections to Disability Employment Services (DES).
School leavers are one of the biggest groups accessing this support, and starting early — ideally 12–18 months before leaving school — leads to better job outcomes.
Does NDIS Provide General Transition Support Too?
Yes. Transition support disability services aren’t just for school leavers — they also help participants moving between jobs, returning to work after injury or illness, or shifting from part-time to full-time roles. Support can include:
- Updated functional capacity assessments
- Adjusted goals in your NDIS plan
- Assistive technology for the new role
- Travel training to get to and from work independently
How Do I Access Employment Support Through My NDIS Plan?
Speak to your Local Area Coordinator (LAC), planner or Support Coordinator about adding employment goals to your plan. If you already have a plan, you can request a plan review to include job-focused funding.
Quick steps:
- Set a clear employment goal with your planner
- Request funding under Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job
- Connect with a registered NDIS employment support provider or DES
- Begin skill-building and work experience placements
- Transition into paid, supported or open employment
Who Delivers These Supports?
Registered NDIS providers, Disability Employment Services (DES), Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs), and Support Coordinators typically work together. Choosing a provider experienced in your specific disability type and local job market matters — ask about their placement success rate before signing up.
Ready to Turn Your NDIS Plan Into a Career Plan?
Don’t let funding sit unused. Book a free consultation with our NDIS employment specialists at Australian Society Care and take the first step toward a job that actually fits you — your goals, your pace, your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the NDIS pay my wages?
No, the NDIS funds support and training, not wages — your employer pays you directly like any other employee.
- Can I get NDIS support while working full-time?
Yes, many participants keep funded supports like transport or workplace mentoring even in full-time roles.
- Is job support available for people with intellectual disability?
Yes, tailored disability skill development programs and supported employment options are widely available.
- How long before starting work should I apply for support?
Ideally 12–18 months in advance, especially for school leavers using transition services.
- Can Support Coordinators help me find a job directly?
They don’t place you in jobs themselves but connect you with DES providers and employment specialists who do.
