If you work in NDIS supports, you will likely hear about the Worker Orientation Module. It is short, free and useful. This guide explains what it is and why it matters.
What it is
The NDIS Worker Orientation Module is called Quality, Safety and You. It is an interactive online course from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
It explains a worker's duties under the NDIS Code of Conduct. It also covers how the NDIS works and what the Commission does. It was built with the sector and with people with disability, so it looks at support from the participant's point of view.
What you learn
The course is split into four parts, each with a short quiz. The topics include:
- understanding the NDIS
- the role of the NDIS Commission
- the NDIS Code of Conduct and what it means in daily work
- delivering quality and safe supports
It covers ideas like respect, human rights, risk and raising concerns. It uses real-life examples to show how the Code applies.
Time, cost and certificate
- Time: about 90 minutes in total.
- Cost: free.
- Pace: you can save your progress, exit and return.
- Result: a certificate of completion at the end.
Keep a copy of your certificate somewhere safe. You may need it for employers, participants or when you apply for verification.
Who should do it
The Commission's guidance says registered providers must include the module in their induction process for workers. It also says registered providers should encourage existing workers to complete it over time.
For unregistered providers and sole traders, the Commission describes the module as a free resource for all providers and workers. We could not find a clear statement that unregistered sole traders must complete it. If you are unsure, ask the Commission.
The Code of Conduct applies to you either way. The module is one of the easiest ways to learn it. Read our NDIS Code of Conduct in plain English as well.
Tips for completing it
- Set aside a block of time. Ninety minutes in one go is easier. But you can split it.
- Use a device you are comfortable with. Check the module page for any accessibility features.
- Take notes. Write down two or three things you want to do differently.
- Do the quizzes. They help the ideas stick.
- Save your certificate as a PDF and keep a backup.
- Share what you learn. Talk about it with your team or a peer.
After you finish
The module is a starting point. Keep learning.
- Read the Commission's Code of Conduct guidance.
- Watch the short Code of Conduct videos.
- Think about training for the specific supports you offer, such as manual handling or behaviour support.
- Review the Code each year, or when things change.
If you are applying for work, mention the module on your resume. See how to become an NDIS support worker.
What the module does not do
It is not a licence to work. It is not a substitute for a Worker Screening Check. It is not the same as a vocational qualification.
- For checks, see NDIS Worker Screening Check explained.
- For business basics as a sole trader, see ABN and insurance for sole trader support workers.
How Goodo uses it
On Goodo, the Worker Orientation Module is part of the Verified support worker badge. A trained reviewer looks at your certificate. We do not check whether you learned the content, only that the Commission's certificate is real and in your name. A badge is not an endorsement. See how Goodo verifies people.
What the four parts cover in practice
Here is how the ideas might show up in real work.
Understanding the NDIS. You learn what the scheme is for, who the main players are, and how plans, goals and choice and control fit together. This helps you explain things to a participant in plain words.
The NDIS Commission. You learn what the Commission does, how it registers providers, and how people can make complaints. You also learn what to do if you see something wrong.
The Code of Conduct. You learn the eight parts of the Code and see examples. For instance, you might see a worker who shares a client's photo, and think about why that breaks privacy.
Delivering quality supports. You learn about respect, communication, safe practice, and preventing harm. You think about how risk and choice can sit together, so people are not wrapped in cotton wool.
A good habit to build
After you finish, try one thing at work in the next week. For example, ask each person how they like their support to be done. Or check that you are not sharing information you do not need to share. Small habits help the learning stick.
Keeping your certificate safe
Save a PDF in two places, such as your phone and an email to yourself. Give a copy to your employer if they ask. Never share a certificate that is not yours. Handing in someone else's certificate is dishonest, and on Goodo it leads to a badge being removed.
About this guide
Goodo is independent. We are not part of, or endorsed by, the NDIA or the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This is general information, not advice. Rules change, so check ndis.gov.au or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 about your own situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is the NDIS Worker Orientation Module free?
Yes. The NDIS Commission describes it as a free online course that you can do at your own pace.
How long does it take?
About 90 minutes. You can save your progress, leave and come back later.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. You receive a certificate of completion when you finish. Keep it, because employers, participants and platforms may ask to see it.
Do I have to do it if I work for myself?
The Commission says registered providers must include it in worker induction. For unregistered sole traders it is not clearly mandatory, but it is free, open to all providers and workers, and many people ask for it. It also helps you understand the Code of Conduct.
Does it count as a qualification?
No. It is an orientation course about your duties and the NDIS. It is not a vocational qualification.
Sources
Goodo is independent