Certificate IV In Disability Support
This is a Free TAFE for Priority Course. Find out about your eligibility
Empower individuals within the disability sector
This qualification reflects the role of individuals in a range of community settings and peoples’ homes, who provide support in a manner that empowers people with disabilities to achieve greater levels of independence, self-reliance, community participation and wellbeing. Workers promote a person-centred approach, work according to, and may contribute to an individualised plan, and work without direct supervision. They may be required to supervise and/or coordinate a small team.
You will learn to:
• Develop and provide individualised support
• Facilitate the empowerment of people with a disability
• Facilitate community participation and social inclusion
• Manage legal and ethical compliance and follow safe work practices
There are 10 units of competency to complete, with electives chosen by local disability services as being relevant to the needs of disability support workers.
You will extend your skills with classes on social inclusion, diverse and complex needs, non-verbal communication techniques, autism and person-centred practices.
On successfully completing this course, you will support people with disabilities in a person-centred and individualised manner, ensuring they are empowered to take maximum control of their own lives.
This qualification focuses on developing competencies to support individuals with disabilities in various contexts. The overarching learning outcomes include:
• Understanding Disability: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse nature of disabilities, including their causes, impact, and implications for individuals.
• Person-Centred Support: Develop skills in providing person-centred support, recognizing and respecting the unique needs, preferences, and aspirations of individuals with disabilities.
• Advocacy and Rights: Acquire knowledge about the rights of individuals with disabilities and the principles of advocacy to ensure their rights are upheld and respected.
• Communication Skills: Enhance communication skills to facilitate effective interaction with individuals with disabilities, their families, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Collaborative Practices: Develop the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, fostering positive relationships to support the holistic well-being of individuals with disabilities.
• Assessment and Planning: Learn how to assess the needs of individuals with disabilities and develop person-centred plans that address their specific requirements and goals.
• Implementing Support Strategies: Acquire practical skills in implementing support strategies, including the use of assistive technologies, and adapting activities to promote inclusion.
• Monitoring and Review: Develop the capacity to monitor and review support plans, ensuring they remain responsive to the evolving needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understand the legal and ethical considerations relevant to working in the disability sector, maintaining a high standard of professional conduct.
• Continuous Professional Development: Emphasize the importance of ongoing learning and development to stay informed about best practices, emerging trends, and advancements in the field of disability support.
These requirements are designed to prepare students for the challenges and responsibilities of the course and subsequent career pathways. They are not intended to exclude individuals but to set realistic expectations and provide a foundation for success in the disability sector.
Upon successful completion the Certificate IV in Disability Support (CHC43121) course at Chisholm Institute, learners have various study pathways available to them, including:
- Further Education: Graduates can pursue higher-level courses within disability, such as advanced diplomas or bachelor's degrees in related disciplines, to deepen their knowledge and skills.
- Employment: With the Certificate IV in Disability Support (CHC43121) qualification, learners are prepared to enter the workforce as disability support professionals. They can seek employment in residential care facilities, community organizations, and home-based care services.
- Specialization: Learners can undertake additional short courses or workshops to specialize in areas like dementia care, mental health support, or specialized communication techniques.
- Professional Development: Ongoing professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences is crucial. This helps graduates stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes.
- Research and Advocacy: Some graduates may pursue research or advocacy roles within disability sectors, contributing to policy development, conducting research studies, or working with advocacy organizations.
It is advisable for learners to consult with our career counsellors or academic advisors to explore these pathways further and make informed decisions based on their career goals and aspirations.
Please note: Students may be required to undertake an assessment of their literacy and numeracy as part of their application process.
Chisholm is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and provides Nationally Recognised Training (NRT). This means you can be assured that our training will provide you with a qualification that is recognised and respected across Australia.
Chisholm courses are subject to minimum and maximum group numbers. Courses may be cancelled or postponed if minimum numbers are not achieved by the start date of the course. Courses may close prior to the start date if the maximum numbers are reached. In that situation, eligible applicants will be offered a place in the next available intake.