Disability care providers often operate under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS Award). Misinterpreting its terms can lead to serious compliance risks.

1. Who the SCHADS Award Covers

Most support workers, case managers, and team leaders in disability services are covered under the SCHADS Award. However, coverage depends on the employee’s role and duties — not just their job title.

2. Common Compliance Issues

Broken shifts: These must include a minimum unpaid break of 10 hours between each shift unless specific conditions apply.

Minimum engagement periods: Employees must be paid for a minimum number of hours per shift, even if they work less.

Sleepovers and on-call allowances: Specific rules apply for overnight support, which are often overlooked.

3. Recent Changes

From 1 July 2022, significant changes were made to:

• Minimum engagement periods
• Broken shift allowances
• Client cancellations in home care

Failure to apply these correctly may result in underpayment claims or disputes.

4. Best Practices

• Regularly review pay rates and classifications
• Keep detailed timesheets, especially for mobile workers
• Communicate clearly with employees about entitlements

Not sure if you’re applying the SCHADS Award correctly? Book a call with Karen

Sources:
Fair Work Ombudsman: SCHADS Award Summary
Fair Work Commission: Award Determination