Disability Support Worker – Mental Health SIL

About Care Fast

Care Fast Group is an NDIS-registered provider offering Supported Independent Living (SIL), Respite, and Community Access services across Victoria. We're committed to compassionate, person-centred support for people with mental health conditions, psychosocial disabilities, autism, and dual diagnoses.

Care Fast is seeking a compassionate and experienced Disability Support Worker (DSW) to provide direct support to NDIS participant transitioning into Supported Independent Living (SIL). The ideal candidate will have experience in supporting individuals with chronic mental health conditions, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder (Level 2).

This role involves 24/7 support (1:3 ratio) including active overnight shifts to ensure Participant's safety, emotional stability, and daily living needs are met in line with his NDIS goals and behavioural support requirements.

Key Responsibilities

1. Personal Care & Daily Living Support

• Assist Participant with daily personal care tasks including showering, grooming, hygiene, and dressing.
• Support meal preparation and encourage balanced nutrition, limiting energy drink consumption.
• Assist with household duties including cleaning, laundry, and shopping.
• Maintain structured daily routines with visual schedules to promote independence and reduce anxiety.

2. Medication & Health Monitoring

• Supervise medication administration and ensure compliance with prescribed doses.
• Monitor for signs of psychiatric relapse or distress (e.g., hallucinations, delusional beliefs, or agitation).
• Record and report any changes in mental or physical health promptly.

3. Behavioural & Emotional Regulation

• Use calm, reassuring, and non-confrontational communication.
• Redirect intrusive or inappropriate behaviours using positive reinforcement and clear boundaries.
• Maintain a safe and supportive environment for Participant and others in the home.

4. Community Access & Social Inclusion

• Provide 1:1 support during community outings such as walks, bowling, snooker, beach visits, or food outings.
• Support Participant in participating in structured recreational and social activities.
• Encourage appropriate public behaviour and safety awareness.

5. Documentation & Communication

• Maintain accurate daily shift notes, incident reports, and communication logs.
• Liaise with Care Fast team regarding progress and concerns.
• Follow Care Fast's policies, procedures, and incident reporting protocols.

Skills & Qualities Required

• Understanding of schizophrenia, psychosis, and behavioural management in line with policies and procedures outlined under NDIS
• Patience, empathy, and ability to maintain professional boundaries.
• Experience supporting clients with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
• Skilled in de-escalation and emotional regulation techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work within structured routines and follow behavioural support plans.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Certificate III or IV in Disability, Community Services, or Mental Health.
• Current NDIS Worker Screening Check and Working with Children Check.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Valid Photo Id.
• Experience of working in shared accommodation, Mental Health, or Community Care environments preferred.
• Smoking-friendly worker (Participant is a heavy smoker; staff must manage this safely per policy).

Work Environment

• SIL property located in Frankston, VIC
• 24/7 roster with 1:3 ratio and active overnight support
• Structured, supervised, and supportive work environment

Employment Type

• Casual or Permanent Part-time

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Casual

Pay: $32.00 – $42.00 per hour

Work Location: In person