Employment Support across Australia: what's actually available
Across Australia, there are currently 8,466 active NDIS providers publicly listed to offer employment support services. This national network is strongest in New South Wales (2,479 providers), Victoria (1,802) and Queensland (1,242), with significant availability in every state and territory, including Western Australia (564) and the Northern Territory (146). Local hubs are emerging in suburbs like Liverpool, Blacktown and Melbourne, reflecting community-focused service delivery.
These providers deliver capacity-building support to help participants prepare for, find and keep meaningful work. Services range from job readiness training and skills development to ongoing workplace support. For example, a provider like Ability WA - Malaga Hub in Western Australia offers a suite of registered services designed to build vocational skills and connect participants with local employment opportunities.
What participants typically look for
When searching for employment support, participants and their families are often seeking services that build practical skills and confidence for the workplace. The focus is on finding a provider that can offer personalised guidance aligned with individual goals and interests.
- Job readiness training: Help with writing resumes, interview skills and understanding workplace rights.
- Skills development: Building specific vocational skills or gaining certifications for a chosen career path.
- Job search assistance: Support to find suitable job openings and navigate the application process.
- Ongoing workplace support: Guidance and adjustments to help a participant settle into and maintain a new role.
How to compare employment support providers
- Check their specialisations: Some providers focus on specific industries or types of employment, which can lead to better connections.
- Review their approach: Look for information on how they tailor support to individual goals and involve participants in planning.
- Consider location and delivery: Decide if in-person support at a local hub, like Upwards Living — All HomeCaring in Wahroonga, or remote services best suit your needs.
- Ask about outcomes: Inquire about how they measure success and support participants in keeping a job long-term.
- Confirm capacity and rapport: Ensure they have availability and that your support team is someone you feel comfortable working with.
How a Plan Manager helps with employment support
A Plan Manager can simplify the financial side of accessing employment support. They pay your providers directly from your NDIS plan funds, track your budgets, and handle all the invoicing and paperwork. This allows you to focus on your employment goals rather than administration.
They can also help you understand how your plan funding can be used for different employment supports and provide reports on your spending. You can talk to a Plan Manager via the panel on this page, or learn more about Plan Management.
Frequently asked questions
Can my NDIS plan fund support for finding a job?
Yes. If you have funding for Capacity Building – Employment in your plan, it can be used for supports that help you prepare for, find and maintain work. This includes job search assistance, skills training, and workplace support.
How does Plan Management work with employment support providers?
A Plan Manager pays your employment support providers on your behalf, giving you the flexibility to use both NDIS-registered and non-registered providers. They manage your employment support budget, sending you regular statements so you can track your spending against your goals.
Where can I learn more about my employment support options?
A great starting point is our NDIS Learning Hub, which contains plain-language guides on using your plan. You can also discuss your specific goals with a potential employment support provider or a local area coordinator.