Support Agency vs Independent Support Worker: Which Should You Hire?
Agency vs independent support worker: the real trade-offs in cost, choice, backup and admin, and how to decide which way to hire your NDIS support.
Behind every support worker is a choice about how you engage them: through an agency that employs and manages a team, or directly with an independent worker who runs their own small business. Both are legitimate on the NDIS, and the right answer depends on how much control, backup and admin you want. Here are the real trade-offs.
What each option actually is
The case for an agency
The case for an independent worker
The trade-offs, honestly
What you take on with an independent worker
Who each option suits
You don't have to pick just one
Frequently asked questions
Is an independent support worker cheaper than an agency?
Usually, yes. Independent workers are sole traders with lower overheads, so their hourly rate is often lower than an agency's. The agency's higher rate pays for backup cover, insurance, screening and management. You're weighing a lower price against a bigger safety net.
What do I need to check before hiring an independent worker?
Confirm they hold a valid NDIS Worker Screening Check and appropriate insurance, agree a simple service agreement, and set up how invoices get paid — a plan manager can handle this. It's also wise to agree a backup plan for when they're unavailable.
Do I have to be self-managed to use an independent worker?
Not necessarily. Self-managed and plan-managed participants can generally engage independent workers, with a plan manager paying invoices for plan-managed budgets. NDIA-managed funding is more limited, as it typically requires NDIS-registered providers. Check how your plan is managed if you're…
Can I use both an agency and an independent worker?
Yes, and many people do. You might use an agency for complex or hard-to-cover tasks and a trusted independent worker for regular support. It can give you both reliable backup and a familiar face, while keeping your overall costs reasonable.
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