What level is a Disability Support Worker under SCHADS?

Most entry-level Disability Support Workers are classified as Social and Community Services Employee Level 2. Workers with a Certificate III or IV, or significant experience performing complex tasks, may be classified at Level 3.

Do support workers get paid for travel time?

Yes. Under the SCHADS Award, time spent traveling between clients is considered working time and must be paid. You are also entitled to a vehicle allowance (approx $0.96/km) if using your own car.

SCHADS Award Guide

Disability Support Worker Pay Rates 2025-2026

Disability Support Workers (DSWs) form the backbone of the NDIS sector. Under the **SCHADS Award**, pay rates vary based on classification level, employment type (casual vs permanent), and the time of day worked.

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Quick Facts

Award Classification: Usually Level 2 or Level 3 (Social & Community Services)
Base Rate (Level 2.1): $33.28/hr (Casual) / $26.62/hr (Permanent) [Est. 2024-25]
Weekend Rates: 150% (Sat) / 200% (Sun)
Public Holidays: 250% (Double time and a half)

Tools & Resources

SCHADS AI Assistant
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Timesheet Validator
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Average Pay Rates for Support Workers

Most Disability Support Workers start at **Level 2** of the Social and Community Services stream.

Current Rates (Estimated for 2025/2026 financial year):

Level 2.1 Permanent: ~$26.62 per hour
Level 2.1 Casual: ~$33.28 per hour (includes 25% loading)
Level 3.1 Permanent: ~$27.90 per hour

Note: Rates effectively updated July 1st annually. Ensure you validate your timesheets to catch any underpayments.

Penalty Rates and Loadings

Support work often involves non-standard hours. The SCHADS Award provides significant penalty rates:

Afternoon Shift: +12.5% loading
Night Shift: +15% loading
Saturday: 150% of base rate
Sunday: 200% of base rate
Public Holidays: 250% of base rate

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What level is a Disability Support Worker under SCHADS?: Most entry-level Disability Support Workers are classified as Social and Community Services Employee Level 2. Workers with a Certificate III or IV, or significant experience performing complex tasks, may be classified at Level 3.
Do support workers get paid for travel time?: Yes. Under the SCHADS Award, time spent traveling between clients is considered working time and must be paid. You are also entitled to a vehicle allowance (approx $0.96/km) if using your own car.

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