More flexibility. More freedom. More income.
That’s what many support workers are chasing — and why more and more are choosing to become an NDIS contractor.
In this blog, we walk you through a real-world scenario: how a disability support worker like you can successfully transition from employee to contractor — without the stress. Plus, we’ve included a handy Contractor Checklist to keep things super simple.
Meet Sarah — Support Worker, Superstar, Soon-to-be NDIS Contractor
Sarah works for a small disability service provider. She’s amazing at what she does — her clients love her, and she finds deep purpose in her work.
But lately, she’s been feeling stuck.
“I want to choose my hours.”
“I’d love to work with different clients.”
“I think I could earn more on my own.”
So Sarah starts exploring the NDIS contractor path. Let’s walk through how she makes it happen.
Step 1: Is Contracting Right for Me?
Before leaping in, Sarah reflects.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to run my own business?
- Can I manage my tax and insurance?
- Do I enjoy working independently?
✔️ YES? Then let’s roll.
✖️ NO? You might be better off staying an employee — and that’s okay!
Step 2: The NDIS Contractor Setup Checklist
Here’s exactly what Sarah did to get started.
(And what you can do too — fast and stress-free.)
NDIS Contractor Essentials:
✅ Apply for an ABN
Go to the ATO website — it’s free and takes 10 minutes.
✅ Get NDIS Worker Screening (if needed)
Especially if working with participants directly.
✅ Take out Public Liability Insurance
Protect yourself and your clients.
✅ Separate Your Finances
Open a dedicated business bank account.
✅ Register a Business Name (optional)
If you want to use something other than your personal name.
✅ Set Up Invoicing
Create a template with your ABN, rate, and services.
✅ Learn Your Tax & Super Responsibilities
Contractors pay their own tax. Consider putting aside 25–30% of income.
✅ Choose Your Hourly Rate Wisely
Think: time, travel, tax, super — and your worth!
Step 3: Transition Smoothly
Sarah chats with her employer. They agree she can:
- Transition some clients over to her
- Sign a contractor agreement
- Work independently but maintain a great relationship
Pro tip: Make sure the switch is genuine contracting, not just a rebranded job. Legal compliance matters.
Step 4: Work Like a Pro
Now that she’s her own boss, Sarah makes it count.
She focuses on:
⭐ Professionalism
Shows up, communicates clearly, tracks hours.
⭐ Personal Branding
She’s not just a support worker — she’s a business.
⭐ Learning
Workshops, short courses, new skills — staying sharp.
Why More Support Workers Are Becoming NDIS Contractors
Because they want…
- Freedom to choose clients
- Control over hours and income
- A stronger connection to their work
But it’s not for everyone.
Need help deciding?
Download our free Pros & Cons Comparison Sheet in the checklist pack — it lays it all out clearly.
Download the Free NDIS Contractor Pack
Want to take the leap like Sarah?
Don’t guess your way through it.
Grab our free “NDIS Contractor Pack” — a clear, visual, and action-packed guide that includes:
✔️ A full step-by-step checklist
✔️ Pros & Cons Comparison: Employee vs Contractor
✔️ Pro tips for setting your rates, taxes, and branding
