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The duties of a disability service officer are similar to, and can sometimes overlap with, those of a disability support worker. The main difference is that a disability service officer tends to be responsible for planning aspects of care, as opposed to carrying out everyday home-based duties or accompanying clients and patients on errands and other appointments.
The primary job of a disability service officer is to help those with a range of issues live their everyday lives freely through the use of available resources. These resources include educational and professional courses and programs as well facilities and services for overall medical and financial support. Disability service officers assess clients and patients to see which resources best suit their needs and monitor progress to determine if new avenues need to be sought. Disability service officers will also liaise with friends, family and colleagues of clients and patients to help establish a network of support.
There are 6 courses available for people who want to become a Disability Service Officer. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
Level-up your career in disability support services with the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to provide person-centred services to people with disabilities and mental health issues. The course covers: on-the-job safety, client rights and independence, facilitating community participation and social inclusion, assisting with movement, transporting individuals, visiting client residences, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, disability support career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment opportunities near you.
Average duration: 12 months.
If you work in personal care or disability support the 22469VIC Course in Introduction to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will help you understand the structure and delivery mechanisms of the NDIS. You’ll learn how to support an NDIS participant, completing documents and helping them access mainstream and community-based support services in their local area. The course also covers: working collaboratively, personal safety, approaching abuse and neglect, helping NDIS participants set and achieve their gaols, listening and communication. Enquire now for a list of course providers in your area and upcoming training dates..
Average duration: 2 weeks.
The Master of Social Work is a comprehensive course designed to develop skilled professionals in the field of social work. It focuses on imparting knowledge and skills for effective practice in health, community services, and non-government organisations. The course emphasises ethical values, critical thinking, and the ability to implement holistic approaches, considering clients' unique backgrounds and needs. It also provides a pathway to leadership roles, preparing students to address complex social issues with empathy and professionalism in various social work environments..
Average duration: 24 months.
The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health provides training in the field, encompassing both theoretical and practical aspects across various sub-specialities like criminal, civil, child, and family forensic mental health. This course aims to impart specialised expertise in the clinical and legal dimensions of Law and Forensic Mental Health, catering to an emerging skilled multidisciplinary workforce. It's designed for professionals seeking advanced knowledge and skills in this intersecting area of mental health and law. .
Average duration: 6 months.
If you’re already comfortable communicating in Auslan sign language, the PSP40818 Certificate IV in Auslan will level-up your skills and understanding. This nationally recognised training course follows the culture and protocols of the international deaf community. The course covers: fundamental differences between Auslan and English, structuring sentences in Auslan, communicating with deafblind people, taking notes for deaf people, and much more. Graduate with the ability to converse in Auslan at an independent user level (familiar subjects). Enquire now for entry requirements, Auslan competencies, and enrolment centres..
In Australia, a full time disability service officer generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There isn't clear data on disability service officer positions specifically. However, aged and disability support worker jobs as a whole have grown strongly in recent years. They are expected to continue to be a strong source of employment around the country. As of May 2019, there were approximately 177,000 aged and disabled carer jobs in Australia. That number could potentially rise to 222,000 in 2024. Some reports indicate the possibility of about 35,800 job openings per year over that span.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Australian Government Job Outlook
Many disability service officer jobs require completion of more advanced qualifications and/or some experience in the support industry. One such qualification that could potentially prepare you for a disability service officer position is a Certificate IV in Disability. This can take around 12 months to complete depending on if you choose to study on campus, online or through blended study modes and whether you study full or part time. This qualification also has a work placement component. Individual Support or other support studies specialising in Aged and Disability Support can be helpful, though each position can have different requirements.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within disability. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Disability
Aboriginal Disability Worker
$960 weekly pay
Community Care Worker
Disability Support Worker
Diversional Therapy Assistant
$800 weekly pay
Home Care Assistance Worker
Home Carer
Personal Carer
Residential Care Worker
Trainee Support Worker
Care Coordinator
$1,150 weekly pay
Disability Service Officer
Disability Team Leader
Diversional Therapist
Lifestyle Coordinator
$1,050 weekly pay
Residential Care Officer
Aged Care Manager
$1,350 weekly pay
Learn more about Disability Service Officer courses in your area.