Independent support workers provide disability support or aged care services directly to clients rather than working through a traditional care agency. Many support workers choose independent work for greater flexibility, higher hourly rates and more control over the clients they support.

This article explains how to become an independent support worker in Australia, what checks and insurance you may need, and how the process differs between NDIS and aged care clients.

What Is an Independent Support Worker?

An independent support worker is a self-employed worker who provides support services directly to clients.

Independent support workers may support:

• NDIS participants
• older Australians receiving aged care services
• privately paying clients
• families arranging support directly

Unlike agency employees, independent support workers are generally responsible for:

• finding clients
• setting their own rates
• managing invoices and payments
• arranging insurance
• maintaining required checks and certifications

Many independent support workers operate as sole traders and use platforms like Careseekers to connect with clients.

Step 1: Decide What Type of Support Work You Want to Provide

Before getting started, it is important to decide what type of clients and support services you want to provide.

Some workers focus on:

• disability support
• aged care support
• mental health support
• social support
• community access
• personal care
• overnight support
• domestic assistance

Some support workers specialise in one area, while others provide a broader range of services.

Understanding the type of support you want to provide can help you determine:

• what training may be useful
• which checks you need
• what clients you want to work with
• what rates to charge

Step 2: Gain Relevant Skills or Qualifications

You do not always need formal qualifications to become an independent support worker in Australia.

However, many clients prefer workers who have relevant training, certifications or previous care experience.

Common qualifications include:

• Certificate III in Individual Support
• Certificate IV in Disability Support
• First Aid certificate
• CPR certification
• Manual handling training
• Medication training

Previous experience in healthcare, community services, nursing, childcare or aged care can also be valuable.

Strong communication skills, reliability and professionalism are often just as important as formal qualifications.

Step 3: Complete Required Checks

Most independent support workers need background and safety checks before working with clients.

Common checks include:

• National Police Check
• Working With Children Check
• NDIS Worker Screening Check
• proof of identity
• references

The checks required may vary depending on:

• the state or territory
• the type of clients supported
• the services being provided
• whether you support NDIS participants

Many clients and care platforms expect workers to keep these checks current.

Step 4: Apply for an ABN

Most independent support workers operating as sole traders need an Australian Business Number (ABN).

An ABN allows support workers to:

• issue invoices
• receive payments as a business
• manage tax obligations
• operate as a sole trader

You can apply for an ABN through the Australian Business Register.

Some workers also choose to speak with an accountant before starting independent work.

Step 5: Understand Insurance Requirements

Independent support workers should understand what insurance coverage applies to the services they provide.

Workers using the Careseekers platform are covered by insurance arranged through the platform for eligible bookings and services.

Insurance requirements can vary depending on:

• the type of support provided
• whether transport is involved
• whether the client is using NDIS or aged care funding
• how services are arranged

Step 6: Create a Professional Worker Profile

Independent support workers often create profiles on care platforms to connect with clients.

A strong worker profile should clearly explain:

• your experience
• qualifications
• availability
• personality
• support skills
• interests
• preferred client types

Clients are often looking for workers who are:

• reliable
• trustworthy
• experienced
• compassionate
• easy to communicate with

Professional photos, detailed descriptions and clear communication can help build trust with families and clients.

Step 7: Complete Careseekers Onboarding and Training

Before supporting clients through Careseekers, workers are required to complete onboarding steps through the platform.

This process helps ensure workers understand platform expectations, safety requirements and professional standards.

Depending on the type of support being provided, onboarding may include:

• identity verification
• uploading checks and certifications
• completing required training modules
• reviewing platform policies
• confirming experience and qualifications
• setting worker preferences and availability

Completing onboarding requirements can help workers prepare for supporting clients safely and professionally.

Step 8: Start Connecting With Clients

Once your setup is complete, you can begin applying for support roles and connecting with clients.

Many independent support workers find clients through:

• online care platforms
• referrals
• local community groups
• allied health providers
• word-of-mouth recommendations

When starting out, some workers begin with a smaller number of clients while building experience and confidence.

What Skills Make a Good Independent Support Worker?

Strong independent support workers often demonstrate:

• empathy
• communication skills
• reliability
• professionalism
• patience
• flexibility
• respect for client independence
• strong personal boundaries

Clients may also value workers with:

• specialised training
• cultural understanding
• language skills
• experience supporting similar needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Become an Independent Support Worker Without Experience?

Yes. Some support workers begin without formal industry experience.

However, qualifications, transferable care experience and training can help improve employment opportunities and client trust.

Do Independent Support Workers Need Qualifications?

Formal qualifications are not always required, but many clients prefer workers with relevant certifications or experience.

Qualifications may also help workers access more specialised support roles.

Do Independent Support Workers Need an ABN?

Most independent support workers operating as sole traders need an ABN to invoice clients and manage business activities.

What Checks Do Independent Support Workers Need?

Common checks include a Police Check, Working With Children Check and NDIS Worker Screening Check.

Requirements vary depending on the services provided and the clients being supported.

Can Independent Support Workers Work With NDIS Participants?

Yes. Many independent support workers support NDIS participants.

Funding arrangements and payment processes depend on how the participant manages their NDIS plan.

Can Independent Support Workers Work With Aged Care Clients?

Yes. Independent support workers may support older Australians receiving aged care services, including Home Care Package clients and privately paying clients.

Do Independent Support Workers Need Insurance?

Independent support workers should understand what insurance coverage applies to the services they provide.

Workers using Careseekers are covered by insurance arranged through the platform for eligible bookings and supports.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Independent Support Worker?

The timeframe depends on your experience, training and how quickly you complete checks and business setup requirements.

Some workers begin within a few weeks, while others complete additional qualifications before starting.

Register To Become An Independent Care & Support Worker