NDIS support worker pay in Australia varies based on experience, shift type, location, and level of care provided.

One of the most common questions people ask is:
How much do NDIS support workers get paid per hour?

It’s a fair question. After all, support workers play a huge role in the NDIS, and their pay reflects skill, responsibility, and experience. However, the answer is not one simple number, because pay changes based on role, time of day, experience, and employment type.

So, let’s break it down in a clear and simple way.

What Affects NDIS Support Worker Pay Per Hour?

First, it’s important to understand that NDIS support worker pay depends on several factors.

For example, pay can change based on:

• Whether the worker is casual, part-time, or full-time
• The type of support they provide
• The day and time they work
• Their experience and training
• Whether they are employed by a provider or work as a sole trader

Therefore, two workers doing similar jobs may still earn different hourly rates.

Base NDIS Support Worker Pay Per Hour in Australia

In general, most NDIS support workers in Australia earn between:

• $30 to $38 per hour on weekdays

However, this is just a base guide. Many workers earn more depending on when and how they work.

For example:

• Entry-level workers usually start closer to $30 per hour
• Experienced workers often earn $34 to $38 per hour
• Workers with special skills may earn even more

So, while $30–$38 is common, it is not the limit.

Weekend and Public Holiday NDIS Support Worker Pay

Support work often happens outside normal business hours. Therefore, higher rates apply on weekends and public holidays.

Usually:

• Saturday rates are higher than weekdays
• Sunday rates are higher than Saturday
• Public holiday rates are the highest

For example:

• Saturday: around $38–$45 per hour
• Sunday: around $45–$50+ per hour
• Public holidays: can go over $55 per hour

As a result, workers who take weekend or holiday shifts usually earn much more.

Casual vs Permanent NDIS Support Worker Pay

Another big factor is whether the worker is casual or permanent.

Permanent workers:

• Get lower hourly pay
• But receive paid leave, sick leave, and job security

Casual workers:

• Get higher hourly pay
• But do not get paid leave

So, although casual workers earn more per hour, permanent workers get long-term benefits. Therefore, the “better” option depends on what the worker values most.

Learn more about our Day Programs and how LYFIT supports daily routines and community connection.

High Intensity NDIS Support Worker Pay Per Hour

Some NDIS supports are more demanding. For example:

• High Intensity Care
• Complex medical needs
• Behaviour support
• Mental health support

Because these roles require more training and responsibility, they often pay more.

Therefore:

• High intensity support workers can earn above $40 per hour
• Workers with clinical or specialist skills may earn even more

So, skill level directly affects pay.

Self-Employed NDIS Support Worker Pay Per Hour

Some support workers work for themselves instead of an organisation.

These workers:

• Set their own rates
• Pay their own tax
• Cover their own insurance
• Manage their own bookings

As a result, self-employed support workers often charge:

• $45 to $65+ per hour

However, they also carry more responsibility and costs. Therefore, their higher pay reflects that risk.

How NDIS Pricing Affects Support Worker Pay Per Hour

The NDIS sets price limits for different supports. Providers must stay within these limits.

However:

• Providers pay workers from what they receive from the NDIS
• They also pay for training, insurance, systems, and admin

So, although the NDIS pays a certain amount, not all of it goes to the worker. Therefore, worker pay depends on how the provider structures their business.

What NDIS Support Worker Pay Per Hour Means for Participants

For participants, worker pay matters because:

• Fair pay helps keep good workers
• Good pay reduces staff turnover
• Stable workers mean better care

So, although lower prices might sound good, they can sometimes lead to poor quality or constant staff changes.

Therefore, choosing a provider who values their workers often leads to better support.

What This Means for Support Workers

For workers, it’s important to ask:

• What is the base hourly rate?
• Are there weekend and holiday penalties?
• Is it casual or permanent?
• Are there chances to grow and earn more?

Because support work is demanding, fair pay and good conditions matter a lot.

Where LYFIT Fits In

At LYFIT, the focus is not just on numbers. Instead, it is about:

• Supporting participants properly
• Training staff well
• Keeping workers confident and supported

Because when staff feel valued, participants receive better care. Therefore, quality support always comes first.

Final Answer

So, how much do NDIS support workers get paid per hour?

• Weekdays: around $30–$38 per hour
• Saturdays: around $38–$45 per hour
• Sundays: around $45–$50+ per hour
• Public holidays: can go over $55 per hour
• High intensity support: often $40+ per hour
• Self-employed workers: $45–$65+ per hour

However, the exact amount always depends on role, experience, time, and employer.
Therefore, while there is a general range, every support worker’s pay story is slightly different.

NDIS pricing limits guide how much providers can charge for support services.