Service agreements for independent support workers
Every independent support worker needs a clear service agreement. Learn what to include, plain-language wording, and how to keep it signed. Free template outline.
What a service agreement actually is
Why every independent needs one
What to include — the essentials
Spelling out responsibilities on both sides
Plain language beats legalese
A simple template outline you can copy
Getting it signed — and keeping it signed
Common mistakes to avoid
Frequently asked questions
Do I legally need a service agreement as an independent support worker?
It isn't legally mandatory for every participant, but the NDIS strongly recommends one and it's a serious risk to work without it. As a sole trader you carry all the admin yourself, so a written, signed agreement protects your income and clarifies expectations. Treat it as standard practice for every ongoing…
What should a support worker service agreement include?
The essentials are: both parties' details and how the plan is managed, the services you provide, your rate (tied to NDIS price limits), travel charges, hours, a cancellation policy, each party's responsibilities, a privacy note, and how the agreement is reviewed or ended. Keep it plain and have both parties sign and…
Can I use one service agreement template for every participant?
Yes — build a reusable master template and adjust the details per participant. What changes each time is the participant's information, their plan management type, the specific services, hours and any custom cancellation terms. Save a separate dated, signed copy for each person rather than editing one shared file.
Should service agreements be in plain language or legal wording?
Plain language, always. Many participants have literacy, cognitive or intellectual considerations, and an agreement they can't understand isn't truly agreed. Short sentences, 'you' and 'I', and the key terms near the top. Consider an Easy Read one-page summary alongside the full document. Clear wording also protects…
How often should I update my service agreement?
Review it at least once a year, and whenever something material changes — your rate, the participant's plan, or the days you work. Don't keep working on stale terms. When you update it, re-sign the new version and note the date it replaces the old one, and give the participant a fresh copy.
Can I get a service agreement signed electronically?
Yes. A signed PDF, a simple e-signature tool, or a clear written 'I agree' by email against the attached document all work fine and are usually easier than paper. Whatever method you use, make sure both parties have a copy and that you keep yours backed up somewhere safe.