The NDIS Workforce Crisis: Why Mental Health First Aid Training Is Essential

As a counsellor working with NDIS participants and their support teams, I’ve seen both the incredible impact of quality care and the growing strain on an untrained workforce. One of the most urgent issues facing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) today is the number of support workers entering the sector without adequate training—particularly in the area of mental health.

While many bring empathy and passion, too few are equipped with practical skills to respond to mental health challenges. This is where Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training becomes not just helpful, but essential.

The Growing Challenge in the NDIS Sector

The rapid growth of the NDIS has led to an increased reliance on entry-level support workers, many of whom have little or no background in mental health. While they may receive basic orientation, it often doesn’t prepare them for real-world situations involving participants with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

The result? A workforce that may unintentionally miss signs of distress or respond in ways that escalate rather than de-escalate crisis situations.

Participants—especially those with dual diagnoses—deserve to be supported by people who understand what they are going through. And support workers deserve the tools to do their job safely and confidently.

Why MHFA and Mental Health Courses Matter

MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) is a globally recognised training program that teaches people how to identify, approach, and respond to someone experiencing a mental health crisis. For NDIS support workers, it offers:

• Confidence to intervene safely and effectively
• Better communication with participants
• Practical steps for de-escalation and support
• A greater understanding of mental illness and stigma

Unlike traditional mental health courses, MHFA focuses on immediate, actionable strategies. It’s about what to do in the moment—and how to guide someone toward appropriate professional help.

The Case for Mandatory MHFA Training in the NDIS

Making MHFA training mandatory for all NDIS support workers would:

• Improve safety and care for participants
• Reduce burnout and emotional fatigue among workers
• Enhance overall service quality across the disability sector
• Build stronger, more trusting relationships between workers and clients

This small investment in training can lead to long-term gains in stability, satisfaction, and wellbeing for everyone involved.

Let’s Raise the Standard for NDIS and Mental Health Support

If we want the NDIS and mental health services to deliver truly person-centred care, we must ensure the workforce is prepared—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

Every support worker should have access to mental health courses like MHFA to help them respond confidently in moments of crisis, support their clients with compassion, and protect their own wellbeing along the way.

Because good support starts with understanding—and understanding begins with training.

Interested in MHFA or mental health training for your team?

Contact us today to find out how we can help you or your organisation upskill for safer, smarter support work in the NDIS sector.