Is Becoming an Independent NDIS Support Worker right for you?
So, you’re thinking about stepping into the world of independent NDIS support work. Maybe you’ve been working with a provider and wondering what it would be like to go out on your own. Maybe you're totally new to the field but feel pulled toward something more meaningful and flexible. Either way, welcome. You’re in the right place.
Going independent isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for the right person, it can be one of the most meaningful, flexible and rewarding careers out there.
Let’s explore whether it might be the right fit for you.
You care deeply and you want your work to reflect that.
At the heart of support work is people. Real humans with real needs, goals, and dreams and you’re probably someone who genuinely wants to help others live a great life and support them to experience and grow.
Going independent means you get to choose who you support, how you support them, and what kind of impact you want to make. It’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about building real relationships, showing up consistently, and growing together.
If you find yourself frustrated by red tape or feeling like you could do more if you had the freedom and control then this might be your
sign.
You’re craving more flexibility in your work and life.
One of the biggest reasons people make the shift is the lifestyle. You get to set your own hours, create a schedule that works for your energy and your family, earn more money and choose the types of support you enjoy most. Ranging from school drop-offs to gym sessions, meal prep, skill building to social outings.
It’s not always smooth sailing, running your own show means managing admin, invoices, and communication, but the trade-off? Deep and
meaningful connections and relationships plus more freedom, autonomy, flexibility and impact.
You want to earn more, and you’re ready to take responsibility.
Let’s talk real talk. Going independent can mean higher income, but it also means more responsibility.
You’ll need to understand the NDIS system, track your income and expenses, stay on top of insurance and compliance, and provide a high standard of service. It’s not impossible, it just takes structure, a bit of guidance, and a willingness to learn.
We’ve seen many support workers grow from “Can I really do this?” to “Why didn’t I start sooner?”
You want to make support personal and impactful.
Independent support work allows you to bring yourself into your work. You get to connect with participants in a way that’s authentic, creative, and tailored to their lives and needs and leans into your strengths and personality.
Love art? Music? Outdoor adventures? Bring it in. The best support often happens in everyday moments whether cooking lunch, shooting hoops, laughing on a walk, support them through a tough time, learning a new skill or making a friend.
If you’re someone who thrives on connection and wants to bring your heart into your work, independent support work can provide that for you.
You’re willing to ask questions, make mistakes, and keep learning.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don’t need a Cert III or a decade of experience. You do need however curiosity, compassion, a caring nature and the courage to try and make a difference.
There are resources out there (like our course, not-so-subtly linked below) that walk you through every step, from setting up, to finding
your first participant, running a sustainable business and enjoying a rewarding career.
Is it right for you?
If any part of you is nodding along, lighting up a little, or even just feeling curious, that’s worth paying attention to.
Becoming an independent NDIS support worker isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being real, doing work that matters, and building a career around your values. It’s about supporting participants in ways that feel good for both of you.
And if you’re ready to explore what that could look like for you, we’re right here beside you.
Want to learn more?
Our Starter Guide gives you a clear roadmap, and our full course walks you through it all step by step with templates, support, and the kind
of real-world advice you actually need.
