How to Make the Most of Your NDIS Plan for Career Growth

Posted April 2025

Finding employment can bring a lot more to our lives than just income. It can bring a sense of purpose, independence and belonging to community and society. This is especially true for people living with disability. The NDIS provides funding that can support career development, but many participants don’t realise how to use their plan strategically to build skills, gain employment, and grow in their chosen field.

By making sure your NDIS plan includes the right supports, you can take steps towards achieving your career goals.

Willing & Able offer supported employment opportunities in various areas, providing meaningful work, skill-building, and personal growth opportunities.

Here’s how to make the most of your NDIS Plan:

Step 1: Set Clear Career Goals in Your Plan

To get the right funding, your NDIS plan needs to reflect your personal goals, including employment. If career growth is something you want to focus on, it’s important to discuss it in your planning meeting as a part of your goal setting.

Some key areas to think about:

→ What type of work are you interested in?

→ What skills do you need to develop?

→ What barriers might you face at work?

→ What supports will help you succeed?

If you’re unsure where to start, Willing & Able is here to help. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, build confidence, or find meaningful work that aligns with your abilities and interests, we can guide you on your journey to employment success.

Step 2: Use Your Funding to Build Career Skills

Under Core Funding - Supports in Employment, Willing & Able can provide hands-on experience in a structured and supportive environment through a range of supported employment opportunities, helping individuals gain valuable workplace skills and confidence.

Under the Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job category, NDIS participants can access funding to help develop skills and prepare for employment. Some supports are:

Career coaching and mentoring – A job mentor can help identify strengths, set goals, and create a career pathway.

Job-readiness skills – Support with writing resumes, job applications, interview skills, and workplace etiquette.

Vocational training – Enrol in courses, apprenticeships, or traineeships to build industry-specific skills.

And if this kind of funding isn’t in your plan or you’re unsure, talk to your NDIS planner or Support Coordinator to assist you.

Step 3: Get the Right Workplace Supports

Once you’ve secured a job, your NDIS plan can help ensure you have the right support to succeed in the workplace. This may include:

Assistive technology – Screen readers, voice-to-text software, ergonomic equipment, or modified tools.

Workplace modifications – Adjustments to the physical workspace to improve accessibility.

Transport assistance – Support for getting to and from work.

Personal care support – Assistance with meals, mobility, or personal care during the workday.

While employers are required to provide reasonable adjustments, NDIS funding can help with additional supports beyond what an employer is responsible for.

Step 4: Work with a Support Coordinator

Navigating employment supports can be complex. A Support Coordinator can help maximise your NDIS funding and connect you with the right services.

A Support Coordinator can:

Identify the best employment pathways for you

Connect you with Disability Employment Services (DES) and other job programs

Assist with funding applications for training, workplace modifications, or transport

Help you prepare for plan reviews to ensure you continue receiving the right support

If you don’t already have a Support Coordinator, you may be able to request funding for one in your next plan review.

Step 5: Regularly Review Your NDIS Plan

Your career goals may change over time, so it’s important to keep your NDIS plan up to date.

If you need additional support or training, request a plan review to adjust your funding. Keep records of your progress—this will help strengthen your case for future funding. Your NDIS Plan is a Tool for Career Success.

The right supports can make a big difference in your career journey.

By setting clear goals, accessing skill-building opportunities, and making use of workplace supports, you can create a career pathway that is just right for you.

To learn more about our supported employment services and supports, reach out to Willing & Able today.

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