You know that guy on Facebook who does the “red flag vs green flag” videos? That’s the energy we’re bringing to this.
Because when it comes to finding the right support worker, it’s not just about qualifications. It’s about how they show up for you — your rights, your goals, your safety, your choices. Knowing how to spot a good support worker can make all the difference in living life your way.
We’ve met amazing support workers. The kind where you can walk through a shopping centre and just know — yep, that person is clearly a support worker, and they’re doing a great job. You see the eye contact, the encouragement, the independence, the respect.
But we’ve also seen the other side.
Like when a participant excitedly called to join our Equine Therapy program, only to say at the end:
“I’ve just got to check with my support worker if I’m allowed to go.”
🚩 Red flag. That’s not how support is meant to work.
🚩 Red Flags: What to Watch Out For
These are signs that something’s off. One red flag isn’t always the end of the world — but a pattern of them? Time to take notice.
🔴 You feel like you need permission.
A support worker’s role is to back your choices, not control them. If you feel like you have to ask for permission, your independence is being undermined.
🔴 They regularly change your schedule to suit them.
Flexibility is important, but if it’s always you bending to their timetable, the focus has shifted from your goals to their convenience.
🔴 They use your time for their needs.
Support hours are your hours. If your worker is running errands, catching up with friends, or venting about personal problems, your support isn’t being prioritised.
🔴 They impose their way of thinking.
Everyone has different values, habits, and goals. A red flag is when a worker pressures you to do things their way instead of respecting your choices.
🔴 They discourage community connections.
Support should help you meet people and get involved. If your worker is isolating you or making themselves your only connection, that creates dependence, not independence.
🔴 They don’t consider your safety.
From forgetting medication needs to failing to check accessibility, a lack of planning can put your wellbeing at risk. A good support worker makes safety a priority.
✅ Green Flags: What to Look For
Now for the positives. These are the hallmarks of a good support worker.
🟢 You feel empowered.
They ask what you want, encourage questions, and back your decisions — even when they’re different to theirs.
🟢 They respect your time.
They turn up when they say they will, focus on your goals, and never treat your hours as their downtime.
🟢 They’re clear with boundaries.
Professionalism matters. A good support worker is friendly but doesn’t blur the line or make you responsible for their emotions.
🟢 They’re forward-thinking and prepared.
They check accessibility, plan ahead for outings, and think about what you might need before you have to ask.
🟢 They actively build your community.
They help you connect with others, try new things, and celebrate your wins as you grow more independent.
🟢 They walk beside you — not in front of you.
You lead your life. A good support worker supports that, walking alongside you instead of making decisions for you.
😅 Real Talk (and a Little Humour)
There’s a bit of an inside joke among us — we’ll be walking through a shopping centre and say,
“Support worker.”
“Yep. Good one.”
“Ooof. Red flag.”
You can spot it. The difference between someone walking with a participant vs someone walking ahead, glued to their phone. Or worse — treating someone like a child or a chore.
Sometimes it’s subtle. Other times, it’s so clear it hurts. And that’s why we’re talking about this.
📣 What to Do If Something Feels Wrong
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Wait… this might be me,” — you’re not alone. And you deserve better.
If you’re worried about control, manipulation, or abuse from someone in your life (including a support worker), here are places that can help:
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – the first point of contact for complaints about the safety and quality of NDIS supports.
📞 1800 035 544 | 💻 ndiscommission.gov.au
People with Disability Australia (PWDA) – a national disability rights organisation offering advocacy to help you raise concerns.
📞 1800 422 015 | 💻 pwd.org.au
Disability Advocacy Finder (Australian Government) – an online tool to find local advocacy services near you.
💻 disabilityadvocacyfinder.dss.gov.au
1800Respect – counselling and support for anyone experiencing violence, abuse, or coercive control.
📞 1800 737 732 | 💻 1800respect.org.au
🧭 Final Thoughts
A good support worker helps you grow, not hold you back. They empower you, respect you, and support your choices every step of the way.
If you see more red flags than green — don’t ignore them. You have the right to feel safe, respected, and in control of your life.
At AVAS Support, we’re passionate about helping people advocate for themselves, build their confidence, and connect with the right support — because you deserve nothing less.
👉 If you’re looking for a good support worker in Ipswich or Brisbane, reach out today. Let’s take the first step together.