Going independent part-time: build it as a side income first
How to go independent part-time as a support worker: keep agency shifts, manage tax and ABN for multiple incomes, juggle time, and test the water before going full-time.
Why part-time is the smart starting point
Keeping your agency shifts
Setting up as a sole trader
Tax with multiple income sources
ABN, GST and super
Managing your time
Testing the water
Knowing when to go full-time
Frequently asked questions
Can I do independent support work while employed by an agency?
Usually yes, but check your contract first for outside-work, conflict-of-interest and non-solicitation clauses. Keep the two completely separate — never work your own clients on agency time, never use agency equipment or information, and never poach agency participants. If your contract requires you to disclose…
How does tax work with both a wage and independent income?
Your employer withholds tax from your wage, but no tax is withheld from your independent income, so you must set it aside yourself. The tax-free threshold is generally used against your wage, so independent income is effectively taxed from the first dollar. Set aside roughly 25–30% as a starting point and confirm with…
Do I need an ABN for part-time independent work?
Yes. Any independent work as a sole trader needs an ABN, which you quote on your invoices. It's free to apply through the Australian Business Register. Having an ABN doesn't mean you automatically charge GST — that's tied to a separate turnover threshold you may not reach while part-time.
Do I have to charge GST on my side income?
Not necessarily. GST registration is only compulsory once your business turnover reaches the registration threshold. Many part-time independents stay under it and don't charge GST. Check the current threshold on the ATO website, monitor your turnover, and register once you cross it or if you choose to.
What about super on my independent income?
Your employer pays super on your wage, but no one pays super on your independent earnings — that's yours to fund voluntarily. Contributions are still concessionally taxed and worth making. Treat super as a cost built into your independent rate rather than an optional extra you keep putting off.
When should I quit the agency and go full-time?
When your independent income is steady rather than a one-off good month, you're regularly turning away work because agency shifts are in the way, you have a savings buffer, and your admin and tax systems run smoothly. Then leave properly — notice, no poaching, clean handover — from a position of strength.