In early 2025, Allambi Care launched a refreshed induction model for both our Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC) and NDIS Disability Services (NDIS) programs. These updates were designed to ensure every staff member - regardless of their role - starts with the tools, confidence, and support needed to provide sector-leading care.
While ITC and NDIS roles differ in focus, the new induction framework aligns them through a shared structure grounded in dignity, safety, and trauma-informed practice. The result is a stronger, more unified workforce - tailored to the unique needs of our participants but built on the same values.
Starting strong: core training for ITC and NDIS
The induction journey begins with two days of face-to-face training. This shift from a condensed five-day block to a more manageable format allows staff to absorb key concepts, reflect on their learning, and enter the next phase with greater clarity. Although the content is tailored to each program, both ITC and NDIS pathways begin with a deep dive into Allambi’s values, frameworks, and the human rights-based approach that underpins our care.
For ITC staff, the focus is on understanding trauma, how it impacts development and behaviour, and how our model addresses universal, trauma-related, and individually assessed needs. There's a strong emphasis on cultural safety, compliance, and communication within care environments, particularly in residential settings where family, governance, and connection play a significant role.
In the NDIS stream, staff explore the foundations of disability support, including key principles from the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the social model of disability, and the NDIS funding landscape. The training then transitions into practical application, focusing on understanding participant needs, medication and hygiene support, documentation, and preparing for daily shifts in various care settings.
While the content is specialised, the approach is unified. Every session is interactive, reflective, and focused on preparing staff to work with purpose, clarity, and compassion from day one.
Importantly, management teams attend these sessions in the afternoon to review documentation, introduce themselves, and build early connections with new staff. This sets clear expectations, fosters trust, and ensures supports are in place before staff begin their placements.
Bridging the gap: supported practice orientation shifts
After core training, new staff step into practice through a Supported Orientation Shift, working under the guidance of an experienced Supervisor. This is where theory meets reality; staff are introduced to the people they will support, become familiar with documentation, and gain hands-on experience with tools and processes such as daily planners, admin systems, and shift handovers.
This stage is not about throwing staff in the deep end. It is a structured, supportive process designed to build confidence and prevent new support workers from becoming overwhelmed. Whether in an ITC or NDIS care home, staff are shown how to navigate each environment safely, responsibly, and in alignment with individual care plans and protocols. This is also a unique opportunity to establish connections with the individual they will support and their team members.
This transition is guided by a competency framework, ensuring that essential skills are introduced and practised with ongoing observation and feedback - not just assessment.
When crisis calls: TCI training for high-needs roles
All ITC staff complete Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training, a critical component of their induction. For NDIS staff, TCI is provided when their placement involves participants with complex needs.
Unlike the previous model, TCI is now delivered after the supported shift phase, splitting the training into a more manageable two-day core induction followed by three days of TCI. This spaced approach allows staff to reflect on their practical experience, apply their learning in real-time, and enter TCI with a deeper context, making the strategies more meaningful and actionable.
This three-day course builds on what staff have already seen and experienced, helping them reflect on challenges and learn trauma-informed strategies to prevent, manage, and recover from crisis.
From emotional regulation and de-escalation to co-regulation and relationship repair, TCI empowers staff to respond with calm, clarity, and care. It is an investment not just in safety, but in building the strong relationships that support long-term healing and stability.
The first six months: learning on the job
Initial training is just the beginning. Throughout the probationary period, staff receive continued coaching, opportunities for reflection, and targeted training aligned with their placements and the needs of participants.
Staff will receive structured feedback, set goals, and build confidence in key areas of practice through day-to-day support, team meetings, reflective practice, PASE supervision, as well as the Allambi Support Hub.
Training is reinforced during real shifts, supported by team leaders, colleagues, and the Learning & Development team.
Whether it’s understanding a diagnosis, managing petty cash, or adapting to house-specific routines, staff have access to practical learning when they need it. Regular check-ins at the three- and six-month marks ensure progress is on track and any gaps are addressed early and supportively.
One workforce, shared purpose
While the pathways for ITC and NDIS may differ, the heart of the induction process remains the same: ensuring every staff member is equipped to deliver safe, meaningful, and responsive care. The updated induction model recognises the complexity of our work and offers structure, support, and clarity from day one.
In practice, this means staff are better prepared. Teams are more consistent. The individuals we support receive more assumed care, and we continue building a culture where care is not just delivered but deeply understood.
Whether you’re supporting a new colleague, navigating your own start, or ready to take the next step in your professional journey, these changes are here to help you thrive. Because at Allambi Care, we know that people don’t just need services - they need people who are equipped to care well.