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NDIS Process

What Is the NDIS Worker Screening Check?

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 · 6 min read · By Sarah M., Support Coordinator
In short

The NDIS Worker Screening Check is a national clearance that assesses whether a person is safe to work with people with disability. Workers in risk-assessed roles with registered providers must hold it. You apply through your state or territory Worker Screening Unit; clearances are valid for five years.

What it is and who needs it

The NDIS Worker Screening Check is a nationally recognised assessment of a person’s suitability to work with people with disability. It draws on criminal history and other records to decide whether someone receives a clearance or an exclusion.

It is required for workers in risk-assessed roles engaged by registered NDIS providers, broadly roles that involve more than incidental contact with participants or that influence the delivery of supports. Registered providers are responsible for identifying which of their roles are risk-assessed.

A clearance is recognised across all states and territories, so a worker generally does not need a separate check in each jurisdiction.

How to apply

Applications are made through the Worker Screening Unit in your state or territory, not directly through the NDIS, because screening is state-run. The process is usually completed online and requires identity verification.

You typically link your application to the registered provider you work for (or intend to work for), so they can confirm your clearance status.

Apply through your state or territory Worker Screening Unit
Verify your identity with the required documents
Link the application to your registered employer
Wait for the outcome before starting in a risk-assessed role where required

Cost and validity

There is a published application fee set by each state or territory Worker Screening Unit, so the exact amount varies by jurisdiction (as at 2025-26 — verify with the issuing Worker Screening Unit). Some applicants, such as volunteers, may pay a reduced fee or none at all.

A clearance is valid for five years from the date it is granted, unless it is suspended or revoked. Screening is ongoing, meaning relevant new information during that period can trigger a review.

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Sarah M., Support CoordinatorReviewed by TQN.Care's NDIS support team · 8+ years in disability support coordination.
Common questions

Questions, answered.

How long does an NDIS Worker Screening Check last? +
A clearance is valid for five years from the date it is granted, provided it is not suspended or revoked. Ongoing monitoring means new relevant information can prompt a review during that time.
How much does the check cost? +
Each state or territory Worker Screening Unit sets its own fee, so the cost varies by jurisdiction. Verify the current fee with the issuing unit, as figures are reviewed periodically (as at 2025-26).
Where do I apply for the check? +
You apply through the Worker Screening Unit in your state or territory, usually online. Screening is state-run, so it is not applied for directly through the NDIS.
Do all NDIS workers need this check? +
It is required for workers in risk-assessed roles engaged by registered providers. Registered providers determine which of their roles are risk-assessed and therefore require a clearance.
Is the clearance valid in other states? +
Yes. A clearance is nationally recognised, so a worker generally does not need a separate check when working across different states or territories.
Keep reading

Related guides.

Wave 6 · Payments/Competitor (info) · /resources/worker-screening-check/