Question 1

What is the difference between a day program support worker and a disability support worker?

Accepted Answer

Day program support workers specifically work in structured day center programs providing activities, skill development and social engagement. Disability support workers may provide broader support including personal care and community access. Under the SCHADS Award, classification depends on duties and qualifications.

Question 2

What award covers day program support workers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Day program support workers are typically covered by the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS Award, MA000100). This award applies to employees working in disability day programs and community participation services. Always verify which award applies to your specific organisation.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a day program support worker?

Accepted Answer

Under the SCHADS Award, day program support workers are classified based on their qualifications and duties. Certificate III qualified workers typically start at Level 2, while those with Certificate IV or specialized program delivery skills may be at higher levels. See our SCHADS Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a day program support worker job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive hourly rate based on qualifications.' Check the current SCHADS Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do day program support workers need?

Accepted Answer

Most day program positions require at least a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) or Community Services. Some roles require Certificate IV in Disability or specialized qualifications in areas like art therapy, recreation or employment support depending on the program focus. Track qualifications using HR software.

Question 6

Do day program support workers need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, day program support workers typically need a valid First Aid certificate and CPR certification. A National Police Check is mandatory, and an NDIS Worker Screening Check is required for NDIS-funded services. Manual handling training and behavior support training may also be required.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a day program support worker?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions with Certificate III qualifications, relevant work placement experience is sufficient. For experienced roles, look for previous experience in disability services, activity planning and delivery, group facilitation skills and experience supporting people with varied communication needs.

Question 8

Can I hire day program support workers as trainees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many organisations successfully hire trainees who are enrolled in Certificate III or IV qualifications. Trainees must be supervised and complete their qualification within the specified timeframe. This pathway helps address workforce shortages while providing quality training in day program delivery.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent day program support workers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your program's operating days and participant numbers. Permanent staff provide consistency for participants, while casuals offer flexibility for fluctuating attendance and covering leave. Many programs use a mix — permanent workers for core program days and casuals for additional coverage. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to day program support workers?

Accepted Answer

Under the SCHADS Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and overtime. Most day programs operate during weekdays, but some offer weekend programs requiring penalty rate payments. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for day program support workers?

Accepted Answer

Under the SCHADS Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 2 hours per shift. Part-time employees also have minimum shift requirements. Most day programs operate in half-day or full-day sessions. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a day program support worker employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate or salary, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work location, program operating days, any requirement to work across multiple sites and vehicle usage if applicable. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to day program support workers?

Accepted Answer

Under the SCHADS Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts, particularly important for programs operating across multiple days or sites.

Question 14

Can I require day program support workers to work at multiple locations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but requirements to work across multiple sites should be clearly communicated in the job description and during recruitment. Workers must be compensated for travel time and mileage between locations. Many organisations operate day programs at several community venues. Be clear about site expectations during hiring.

Question 15

What breaks are day program support workers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the SCHADS Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Breaks should be taken at appropriate intervals during the program day. Use break planning tools to support compliance while maintaining adequate participant supervision.

Question 16

How do I manage staff ratios in day programs?

Accepted Answer

Day program staff ratios depend on participant needs, program activities and funding requirements. NDIS funding often specifies support ratios. Build adequate staffing into rosters to meet safety requirements, particularly for high-support participants or external community access. Use rostering software to track ratios and support compliance.

Day program support worker job description