Nursing Agency vs Independent Nurse vs Support Worker for Complex Care
Nursing agency vs independent nurse vs support worker on the NDIS: who can do what for complex care, the cost differences and how to choose the right mix.
When you need complex care at home, you have three broad ways to get it delivered — a nursing agency, an independent nurse, or a support worker with the right training. They differ in who they employ, what they can do, and what they cost. This guide compares nursing agency versus independent nurse versus support worker for complex care, so you can work out the right mix for your needs and your…
Three ways to get complex care delivered
Nursing agency: what it offers
Independent nurse: what it offers
Support worker (delegated care): what it offers
Who can legally do what
Cost and budget differences
Mixing the three
How to decide and where this sits
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a nursing agency, an independent nurse and a support worker?
A nursing agency employs and rosters registered and enrolled nurses, handling cover and oversight for you. An independent nurse is a self-employed registered nurse you engage directly. A support worker isn't a nurse, but when trained and assessed as competent for a specific task under nurse…
Can a support worker legally do the same tasks as a nurse?
Not everything. Some higher-risk clinical tasks must stay with a registered nurse. But many high-intensity tasks can be delegated to a support worker trained and assessed as competent for that specific task, under nurse oversight. The nurse decides what can be safely delegated and remains…
Is a support worker cheaper than a nurse for complex care?
Generally yes — nurse time is charged at a higher rate than support-worker time, even the high-intensity rate. That's why many people use a mix: a nurse for the tasks that need one and for oversight, and trained support workers for the regular day-to-day care. This keeps care safe while making the…
Can I mix a nurse and support workers in my care?
Yes, and many people do. A common model is a registered nurse setting up your plan, doing the higher-risk tasks and providing oversight, while trained support workers deliver the everyday care under that oversight. This blends clinical safety with continuity and affordability, and both can be funded…
How do I decide which option is right for me?
It depends on the clinical risk of your tasks, how much continuity you want, and your budget. Higher-risk, unstable needs point towards more nurse involvement; stable, routine care suits trained support workers under oversight. Mapping your specific tasks against who can safely do them — and at what…
Related guides
- Nursing at Home vs SIL vs Hospital-in-the-Home for Complex Care
- Questions to Ask a Complex-Care Provider Before You Sign
- Registered vs Unregistered Providers for High-Intensity Supports
- How to Find & Vet a Complex-Care Provider or Worker on the NDIS
- Evidence & Reports You Need to Get Complex Supports Funded