As a Casual Disability Support Worker, you will provide high-quality, flexible support participants in their Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) / Supported Independent Living (SIL) home. The participant requires 24/7 assistance ranging from morning/evening personal care and transfers to overnight passive supervision tailored to his unique care plan. You will work both 1:1 and with another support worker (2:1) for specific activities, ensuring his safety, comfort, and social engagement.
Experience in Aged Care is favourable for the nature of support.
Responsibilities
(Please read as they have been detailed to suit the specific needs of the client you will be supporting if hired)
Personal & Physical Care
* Assist with all transfers (bed, wheelchair, commode, shower) using a sling lifter, slideboard, and/or gutter frame (2 staff for high-risk transfers).
* Support daily living needs: showering, dressing, grooming, continence care (pad changes, prompting to use a urinal bottle), and positioning to prevent pressure injuries.
* Administer medication as prescribed (regular and PRN) following correct documentation and ensuring compliance.
* Prepare and serve meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), providing setup assistance, verbal prompts, and monitoring intake to mitigate malnutrition risk.
* Perform routine household tasks: light cleaning, laundry, and shopping (with support), maintaining a safe, accessible environment.
* Oversee mobility: assist with wheelchair propulsion (indoor/outdoor), ensure correct use of wheelchair, and coordinate with transport providers for appointments.
Cognitive & Behavioural Support
* Provide constant supervision (close/distant) to ensure safety due to severe cognitive impairment (disorientation, memory loss, confabulation); intervene if wandering or confusion arises.
* Use positive behaviour support strategies to de-escalate distress, encourage emotional regulation, and implement strategies recommended by allied health (psychology, PBS practitioner).
* Cue, prompt, and guide the participant through daily routines -morning/evening care, meal times, personal hygiene using clear, concise instructions and repetition.
* Encourage participation in community and social activities, supporting attendance at appointments, outings, or group programs safely.
Therapy & Equipment Management
* Follow instructions from physiotherapists and occupational therapists: assist with manual handling, implement exercise programs, and maintain correct posture during transfers.
* Monitor and maintain assistive equipment (electric bed, pressure-relieving mattress, Roho cushion, shower commode, wheelchair), reporting any issues promptly.
* Collaborate with allied health professionals during in-home assessments, therapy sessions, and home modifications to reinforce recommended strategies.
Overnight / Sleepover Support
* Provide passive overnight supervision, responding to nighttime needs (pad changes, reassurance during disorientation) alongside a co-worker for minimal disturbances.
* Ensure a calm, structured environment to reduce anxiety and wandering risk.
Communication & Reporting
* Maintain accurate, timely documentation: daily progress notes, incident reports, medication charts, and handover logs (shift-to-shift).
* Communicate effectively with the management regarding any changes in condition, concerns, or achievements so it can be communicated to the key stakeholders.
* Attend team meetings, training sessions (e.g., manual handling, person-centered planning, positive behaviour support), and supervision as required.
MUST HAVE - Skills & Attributes:
* Proven ability to safely and confidently perform 1:1 and 2:1 high-risk transfers using mechanical aids (sling lifter, slideboard).
* Strong understanding of cognitive impairments (memory loss, disorientation, executive dysfunction) and ability to adapt communication strategies accordingly.
* Demonstrated ability to follow detailed care plans, behaviour support plans, and medication administration protocols.
* Empathy, patience, and a calm demeanor when working with individuals experiencing distress, mood fluctuations, or suicidal ideation.
* Excellent teamwork and communication skills, including accurate written record-keeping and respectful interaction with family members.
* Flexibility to work casual shifts across mornings (6 am–2 pm), afternoons (2 pm–10 pm), and overnights (10 pm–6 am), including weekends and public holidays.
Requirements:
* Ability to follow and adhere to the Arcadia Community Care Core Values
* Ability to follow and adhere to all required documentation that needs to be recorded in on CRM
* Ability to follow Organisational Policies and Procedures
* Own or have access to a registered vehicle, must be roadworthy and hold a valid driver's license
* Ability to drive a wheelchair-accessible vehicle is a plus
* Competent English Language Skills, both verbal and written - Please note that client has difficulty understanding and communicating with people who speak with strong accents.
* Ability to treat all clients with respect, dignity, and compassion under any/all circumstances
Qualifications:
* Certificate 3 Individual Support / Aged - Disability
* Cert 4 or EN Trained (Advantageous)
* NDIS clearance
* Working with Children clearance
* Medication trained (Preferred but not essential)
* First Aid / CPR
* Manual Handling
* Covid-19 Vaccinated x 3
* Flu Vaccination
Job Type: Casual
Pay: $35.20 – $37.70 per hour
Application Question(s):
* List all languages you can speak.
Language:
* English (Preferred)
Work Authorisation:
* Australia (Required)
Willingness to travel:
* 25% (Preferred)
Work Location: In person