27/04/2026
Over the past few days, I’ve noticed both participants and support workers raising similar questions across various NDIS forums. I wanted to bring this discussion into our local community, as it highlights an important aspect of how supports should be delivered under the NDIS.
Common questions being asked:
• Support Workers: “Am I expected to complete household tasks as part of my role?”
• Participants: “Is it reasonable to expect my support worker to assist with dishes and general tidying?”
The answer to both is yes when it aligns with the participant’s goals, preferences, and support plan.
At its core, the NDIS is built on the principle of choice and control. This means supports should be directed by the participant not by the preferences or routines of the support worker. While community access is an important part of many participants plans, it is not the sole focus of support.
We are hearing from participants who feel pressured to leave their homes during shifts because that is what their support worker prefers. This is not consistent with NDIS values. Support should always reflect what the participant wants and needs in that moment whether that’s going out into the community or staying home and receiving assistance with daily living.
Participants have a right to receive these fundamental supports. This includes assistance with everyday tasks that make life more manageable, safe, and comfortable. Participants should never feel as though they are being directed, limited, or told what to do by their support workers.
If you are a participant and feel that your supports are not being delivered in line with your needs, preferences, or plan or if you feel your voice is not being respected it is important to speak up. This might involve having an open conversation with your support worker, contacting your provider, or seeking guidance from your support coordinator. Your supports should work for you.
Support workers play a vital role in enabling participants to live safely, independently, and with dignity. This can include:
• Personal Care: Assistance with showering, dressing, grooming, and toileting
• Household Tasks: Meal preparation, cooking, cleaning, laundry, and light gardening
• Transportation: Support to attend appointments, shopping, or social activities
• Community Access: Accompaniment to social outings, recreation, or appointments
• Medication Support: Prompting or assisting within scope of practice
• Skill Development: Building independence in areas such as budgeting, cooking, and travel
• Behaviour Support: Following established behaviour support strategies
• Allied Health Assistance: Supporting therapy programs as directed by professionals
• Administrative Support: Help with emails, correspondence, and phone calls
Ultimately, quality support is not defined by where the shift takes place, but by how well it aligns with the participant’s goals, preferences, and right to direct their own supports.
As providers and support workers, it is our responsibility to uphold these principles and ensure participants feel empowered not directed in how their supports are delivered.
