Handover Notes Example for Support Workers in Australia

A good handover helps the next worker understand what has already happened and what still needs attention. It should be short enough to read quickly, but specific enough to reduce missed tasks.

Useful handover notes usually include completed supports, changes noticed, appointments or reminders, risks, family or representative contact, and any tasks that need follow-up on the next shift.

Example wording: 'Morning personal care completed. Breakfast prepared and eaten. Medication prompt completed at 8:30 am as per routine. Client mentioned daughter will visit at 4 pm. Laundry started but not dried due to time. Please complete drying during afternoon shift if appropriate.'

Avoid copying unnecessary personal information into handovers. Include what the next worker needs to safely and respectfully continue support.

For small providers, a consistent handover form can reduce confusion across casual workers, overnight shifts, community access, and multi-worker rosters.