Victorian Disability Worker Commission

26/10/2026

Our 2025-26 Annual Report is now available.

Over the past year, we have increased our regulatory oversight and have taken firm action against conduct that puts people with disability at risk of harm.

Swipe through to see a snapshot of some of our key statistics from 2025-26, including record numbers of Prohibition Orders and increased investigations.

The full report can be downloaded from our website in both PDF and accessible Word formats. A shorter 2025–26 At a Glance summary is also available.

https://brnw.ch/21x6Fhe

23/10/2026

The Victorian Disability Worker Commission and the Disability Worker Registration Board of Victoria are proud to present their Annual Report 2025-26.

https://brnw.ch/21x6BPo

This report details our activities and impact in improving disability workforce quality and safety for people with disability.

Our increased engagement has resulted in a 16% growth in the number of enquiries received, an 82% increase in new investigations being made into disability worker conduct, and a 140% increase in Prohibition Orders issued by the Commissioner.

Our work is supported by people across the disability sector speaking with us about any concerns.

The full Annual Report is now available to download from our website in PDF or accessible word versions. A shorter version called 2025-26 At a Glance is also available for those who prefer a quick summary.

https://brnw.ch/21x6BPo

19/10/2026

Join our free Code of Conduct webinars — open to all disability workers in Victoria.

Understand how to apply the Disability Service Safeguards Code of Conduct in your everyday work.

The Code of Conduct sets out how you must provide safe, quality services to people with disability — no matter how you’re funded.

We’re kicking off the new series with Element 1: Act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with applicable laws and conventions.

-Date and time: 26 November, 10am–11am
-Where: Online webinar
https://brnw.ch/21x6wNz

19/10/2026

The Victorian Disability Worker Commission is delighted to be sponsoring the Unbound 2026 awards at the upcoming exhibition in Benalla. The exhibition is an outstanding opportunity to celebrate the creativity and talents of people with disability, and the Commission looks forward to visiting Benalla and seeing the wonderful works of art that are submitted.

Don’t forget, submissions are still open until 13 November.

UNBOUND, a disability art exhibition showcasing powerful works by artists with disability, is open until February 23rd. Celebrate creativity and break down biases.

13/10/2026

Acting Commissioner Kate Maddern and VDWC staff recently headed to Warrnambool to host a stall at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Ltd (VACSAL) Senior Football and Netball Carnival! 🏉🏐

It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with the Victorian Aboriginal community and chat face-to-face during such an exciting event.

While in the region, we also met with local disability service providers, local council, carers, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). Hearing directly from regional communities ensures the Commission can continue providing strong safeguards that support people with disability across Victoria.

13/10/2026

Our October 2026 eNewsletter is out now!

This month's edition includes:

- Victorian Disability Worker Commissioner appointed
- More Code of Conduct webinars for disability workers
- Changes to the Working with Children Check
- Plus, much more!

To read it, visit our resources hub https://brnw.ch/21x6m0d

Don't forget to subscribe at https://brnw.ch/21x6m0f to get it sent straight to your inbox every month!

12/10/2026

This National Carers Week, we are proud to support Carers Victoria call to care for carers in our community.

Carers play a vital role in supporting people with disability to participate fully in daily life. Therefore, it is important that carers have a voice in ensuring disability services remain safe, respectful, and high quality.

If you are a carer, please ensure that any disability worker supporting your family or friend meets the Disability Service Safeguards Code of Conduct. If a worker is acting unsafely or disrespectfully, you can call VDWC to lodge a complaint on 1800 497 132.

To read more about the Code of Conduct visit https://brnw.ch/21x6ktH

09/10/2026

Today is World Mental Health Day.

This year’s theme is Together We Thrive.
It's an important moment to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma, and show our support.

Here at the VDWC, we can respond to concerns about support workers and practitioners assisting people with mental illness in all aspects of life.

If you would like more information or would like to speak to someone about a concern visit our website (link in bio) or call 1800 497 132

07/10/2026

There is always more to know about a person.

This Down Syndrome Awareness Month, let’s celebrate the knowledge, skills, interests, experiences and contributions of people with Down syndrome.

By speaking directly to people with Down syndrome, listening to their ideas and including them in conversations and decisions, we can build a more inclusive community.

Follow Syndrome Australia throughout October to hear people with Down syndrome share their knowledge, advice and everyday lives.

05/10/2026

Join our free Code of Conduct webinars — open to all disability workers in Victoria.

Understand how to apply the Disability Service Safeguards Code of Conduct in your everyday work.

The Code of Conduct sets out how you must provide safe, quality services to people with disability — no matter how you’re funded.

We’re kicking off the new series with Element 1: Act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with applicable laws and conventions.

-Date and time: 26 November, 10am–11am
-Where: Online webinar
https://brnw.ch/21x6bBZ