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SCHADS pay rates for disability support workers

What SCHADS award minimums mean for disability support worker roles, with official sources and AwardGuard rate checks. General information only.

Disability support workers employed under SCHADS (MA000100) are paid at least the adult base minimum for their correct classification, plus any applicable loadings, penalties, overtime, or allowances in the award. Those wage floors are separate from NDIS support price limits used for billing participants or plan managers.

What does “SCHADS pay rate” mean for disability support work?

In everyday language, people often say “the SCHADS rate” when they mean the minimum hourly wage for a classified role. Officially, you must read the classification definitions in the SCHADS Industry Award and the current figures in the Modern Awards Pay Database. AwardGuard surfaces adult base rates for commonly checked SCHADS classifications on /awards/schads.

How do I find the right classification?

Classification is about the work performed and the award’s level descriptors — not job titles alone, and not NDIS support item codes. Use Fair Work’s guidance on award classifications, then compare with our plain-English overview in understanding SCHADS classifications and the workflow in how to classify employees under awards.

Steps to compare what you pay

  1. Confirm SCHADS coverage may apply (seek advice if unsure).
  2. Match duties to a classification level in the award.
  3. Look up the adult base minimum via AwardGuard or official Fair Work tools.
  4. Check casual loading, weekend/evening penalties, overtime, and allowances separately.
  5. Keep NDIS pricing decisions on a separate track from wage compliance.

Compare what you pay with the current adult base minimum using the free AwardGuard rate checker. Always confirm against the award instrument and Fair Work sources — the award prevails.

Limitations

  • Not every disability support role is covered by SCHADS; other awards or arrangements may apply.
  • AwardGuard does not provide legal advice or a classification determination.
  • No apprentices in scope; juniors are estimates where the product shows them.
  • The applicable award always prevails over this guide.

Last reviewed: 15 July 2026 · Authored by AwardGuard (organisation).

General information only — not legal or workplace-relations advice. The applicable modern award always prevails. Rates and classifications should be verified against the Fair Work Commission — Modern Awards Pay Database. AwardGuard is not endorsed by the Fair Work Commission, Fair Work Ombudsman, or NDIS.

Identifies pay and roster items to review before payroll. General information only, not workplace relations or legal advice. The applicable modern award prevails. For authoritative guidance contact the Fair Work Ombudsman or a qualified adviser.