TFN employee VS Independent worker on an ABN with Careseekers

What’s the difference between working as a TFN employee for a provider and working as an independent worker on an ABN with Careseekers?

At Careseekers, you have the opportunity to work independently and build meaningful connections with clients in your local community. But how does this differ from working as a traditional employee under a provider? Let’s break it down.

1. Employment Status

TFN Employee (with a provider):

You’re employed by the provider. This means they are responsible for your tax, superannuation contributions, insurance, and other entitlements such as sick leave or annual leave (depending on your employment type – e.g., casual, part-time, or full-time).

ABN Independent Worker (with Careseekers):

You operate as an independent contractor and invoice clients directly through the platform. You’re responsible for managing your own tax and superannuation – but you’ll be supported by Careseekers to make the process easier.

2. Flexibility & Control

TFN Employee:

Your provider assigns you to shifts. Your pay, clients, and schedule are generally determined by them.

ABN Independent Worker:

You choose your own clients, set your own availability, and negotiate your own rates (within fair and reasonable industry standards). You’re in control.

3. Pay and Rates

TFN Employee:

You receive a fixed hourly wage from your employer, who handles tax and super for you. These rates are usually set according to award conditions.

ABN Independent Worker:

You set your own rate and are paid directly by the client or their representative through Careseekers. Careseekers deducts a small admin fee from your hourly rate to cover platform use and insurance.

4. Insurance & Work Cover

TFN Employee:
You’re covered by the provider’s workers compensation and public liability insurance.

ABN Independent Worker:
Careseekers holds all the necessary insurances (including public liability and professional indemnity) to protect you while you work. A small portion of your hourly rate goes towards covering this cost, so you don’t need to organise separate cover.

5. Administration

TFN Employee:
Minimal admin – your employer handles payroll, tax, and compliance.

ABN Independent Worker:
You’re responsible for your own invoicing, tax, and super – but Careseekers makes it easy through our platform tools and resources.

6. Suitability

TFN Employee:
Great if you want more structure, consistent hours, and less admin.

ABN Independent Worker:
Ideal if you value independence, flexibility, and want to build your own client base on your terms.

In Summary

Need Help Deciding?

If you're not sure which option is right for you, reach out to the Careseekers team or speak with a financial or legal advisor for personal advice.