How to Get Your NDIS Worker Screening Check in NSW: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re planning to work in the NDIS sector in New South Wales, getting an NDIS Worker Screening Check is one of your first and most important steps. This check helps ensure that workers are safe to work with people with disability — and it's mandatory for many roles.
In this guide, we break down how to apply, what documents you need, how much it costs, and how long it takes to get your clearance in NSW.
📝 What Is the NDIS Worker Screening Check?
The NDIS Worker Screening Check is a national background check that assesses whether a person who works (or wants to work) with people with disability poses a risk. If you’re working in a risk-assessed role with a registered NDIS provider, or if your employer requires it (even if they’re unregistered), you’ll need this check before you start.
🔍 How to Apply in NSW
Here’s how to apply for your NDIS Worker Check in New South Wales:
Start your application online via MyServiceNSW:
Log in or create a MyServiceNSW account:
Complete the online form. You’ll receive an application number via email.
Visit a Service NSW Centre in person within 14 days:
Bring your application number and your original identity documents.
A staff member will verify your ID and take your photo.
Wait for your employer to verify your application:
Your NDIS employer must verify you in the national NDIS Worker Screening Database. They have up to 30 days to do this.
Wait for your clearance to be processed:
Once your employer has verified your application, the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian will assess it and issue your result.
📄 What Documents You Need
You’ll need to bring 4 original, unlaminated identity documents to your Service NSW appointment. These should meet the following criteria:
One document from the Commencement of Identity category (e.g. birth certificate or passport)
One document from the Primary Use in Community category (e.g. driver's licence)
Two additional supporting documents (e.g. Medicare card, utility bill)
You’ll also need to:
Provide your employer’s name or NDIS registration number
Consent to national criminal history checks and ongoing monitoring
More details on accepted ID documents can be found here
💰 How Much Does It Cost?
Paid workers: $105
Volunteers: Free
This fee is paid when you attend your in-person appointment. It’s non-refundable even if your clearance is not approved.
More Fee info can be found here (scroll to Step 2 - In Person Visit):
⏳ How Long Does It Take?
There’s no set processing time, but here’s what to expect:
Straightforward applications (no flags or criminal history): can be processed in a few days to a few weeks.
Complex cases (with assessable information): may take longer if a risk assessment is required.
You can track your application status through your MyServiceNSW account.
Important: Your application won’t be assessed until your employer verifies it in the database.
🔐 Key Tips to Remember
Your NDIS clearance lasts 5 years and is valid Australia-wide.
You must not start work in a risk-assessed NDIS role until your clearance is granted.
All communication will come via email — so use an address you check regularly.
You don’t receive a card — your clearance is digital and recorded in the national database.
📣 Need Help Navigating NDIS Compliance?
Whether you're a new worker or an NDIS provider trying to stay on top of requirements, we're here to help. Our platform supports you with up-to-date guidance, tools, and templates to stay compliant and confident.
👉 Get in touch with us or explore our NDIS resources to learn more.
