NDIS job roles that qualify for Permanent Residency are a major focus for many skilled workers in Australia’s disability support sector. Many people wanting to build a meaningful career in supporting people with disability also want to make Australia their permanent home. Understanding what these roles are, how they relate to Australian migration and the NDIS, the requirements, benefits, challenges and pathways is crucial for both job seekers and providers. This guide covers everything you need to know.

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What Are NDIS Job Roles That Qualify for Permanent Residency?

NDIS job roles refer to occupations within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector, primarily involving care and support for participants with disabilities. Many of these roles are classified as skilled occupations by the Australian Government, which enables workers to apply for permanent residency (PR) through Australia’s skilled migration pathways. [object Object]

Permanent residency (PR) is a visa status allowing non-citizens to live, work, and access many benefits in Australia indefinitely. With Australia’s ongoing skills shortages in disability care and allied health sectors, these job roles are in high demand and are actively sought after through PR programs.

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Why Is This Important?

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• Addressing Workforce Shortages: There is a pressing need for skilled disability support workers, allied health professionals, and support coordinators due to the ongoing growth of the NDIS.
• Career Progression: Permanent residency pathways attract skilled professionals who want stability and long-term career options in the disability sector.
• Quality of Care: Encouraging skilled migration helps maintain and improve quality of care for NDIS participants. [object Object]

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How Do NDIS Job Roles Fit Into Australian Migration?

Most job roles in the NDIS sector that qualify for PR are listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL), including the Medium and Long‑term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

[object Object] Migration Programs Commonly Used:

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): For people not sponsored by an employer, state or family member.
• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): State or territory government nominated. [object Object]
• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187)
• Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482), with a pathway to PR. [object Object]
• Graduate visas and others, leading to skilled migration routes.

To qualify, the occupation must be on a relevant list, and the individual must meet criteria such as skills assessment, English proficiency, experience, and health/character checks. [object Object]

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Key NDIS Job Roles That Qualify

Here is an overview of common occupations in the NDIS sector currently eligible for Permanent Residency (with ANZSCO codes for reference):

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• Registered Nurse (2544xx): Especially specialising in Disability and Community Health.
• Occupational Therapist (252411)
• Physiotherapist (252511) [object Object]
• Speech Pathologist (252712)
• Social Worker (272511)
• Psychologist (2723xx) [object Object]
• Welfare Worker (272613)
• Disabilities Services Officer (411712)
• Aged or Disabled Carer (423111) – some states/territories only [object Object]
• Support Coordinator/Case Manager (may fall under Welfare Worker or Disabilities Services Officer)
• Community Worker (411711)
• Other allied health professionals (see STSOL/MLTSSL for updates) [object Object]

Note: Migration eligibility may change; always consult the latest Government SOL for exact listing.

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How Does The Process Work?

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Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Check Occupation List: Confirm your job is on the STSOL or MLTSSL.
2. Skills Assessment: Obtain a skills assessment from the relevant authority (e.g., AHPRA for nurses, ANZSW for social workers). [object Object]
3. Check Eligibility Criteria: Includes qualifications, English language requirements (typically IELTS 7 or equivalent), and work experience.
4. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit to the Department of Home Affairs via SkillSelect.
5. Receive Invitation: Wait for invitation to apply for a skilled visa. [object Object]
6. Visa Application: Submit application with supporting documents (qualifications, assessments, police checks, health checks).
7. Grant of Visa: Once processed (can take 6–18 months), you receive PR status if successful.

[object Object] For employer-sponsored PR:

• Obtain a full-time job offer with a registered NDIS provider.
• The employer nominates you for a relevant PR pathway (e.g., subclass 186). [object Object]
• Similar eligibility and documentation required.

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Benefits of PR for NDIS Workers

• Stability: The right to stay, work, and live in Australia permanently. [object Object]
• Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for citizenship after four years.
• Access to Medicare and Social Security
• Family Sponsorship: PR holders can sponsor family for migration. [object Object]
• Better Career Development: Access to more roles, training, government positions.

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Key Features and Data

• Huge Demand: As of 2024, there are over 270,000 workers in the NDIS sector, with thousands of vacancies in support and allied health. [object Object]
• Growth Rate: Disability support roles rank among the fastest-growing jobs in Australia (>8% p.a. in some segments).
• Regional Opportunities: Many regional areas offer increased PR points and other concessions due to workforce shortages.
• Recent Relaxation: Many state/territory governments have added disability support roles to their skilled occupation lists in response to sector demand. [object Object]

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Common Professions and Applicants

• International Students: Graduates in nursing, allied health, and community services who secure job