A sustainable, high-quality National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) depends on the strength and stability of the providers who deliver its services. This census reveals that the disability sector continues to face entrenched and systemic workforce challenges that threaten service continuity, quality and long-term viability. It reinforces the urgent need for systemic reform.

The census organises collected data at national, state and territory levels for disability support workers and allied health workers, drawing out trends on issues crucial to the disability sector. Persistent and systemic challenges include critical workforce shortages and high turnover, along with a sharp decline in permanent full-time roles. 

Key findings

• Staff turnover remained high at 26% for casual and 16% for permanent staff. These rates impose a considerable financial burden for onboarding alone.
• The proportion of permanent full-time roles dropped from 30% to 21%.
• 2024 saw a significant net loss of 1,246 permanent disability support workers, offset somewhat by the growth of 983 in casual roles, highlighting a sustained trend towards casual employment.