If you are new to the NDIS, the cost of support workers can look confusing at first. There are different rates for different day types, different levels of complexity, and different support categories. The good news is that all of this is public and published. The bad news is that it takes a few reads to get your head around. Here is a practical breakdown.
The NDIS Price Guide
Every support rate in the NDIS is set by the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits document, published by the NDIA and updated annually (usually in July). Registered providers cannot charge more than the price limits. Plan-managed and self-managed participants can technically pay more for unregistered workers, but most stay within the guide.
Main Rate Categories for Support Workers
Day rates are tiered based on when the support happens:
- Weekday daytime (6am-8pm Mon-Fri): lowest rate
- Weekday evening (8pm-midnight Mon-Fri): higher
- Saturday: higher still
- Sunday: higher again
- Public holiday: highest
- Overnight (active): separate rate
- Overnight (sleepover): lower rate as the worker is mostly asleep
The actual dollar figures change every year, so check the current price guide. As a rough guide in 2026, a weekday daytime support worker sits around $70/hour.
Core vs Capacity Building
Support worker time generally falls under Core supports (Assistance with Daily Life) in your plan. Some activities, like skill-building, might come out of Capacity Building. Your plan document spells out which pot of money is available for what.
What Gets Charged
The hour(s) of support you receive get charged at the relevant rate. Some providers also charge for:
- Travel time (to reach you, between clients)
- Travel costs (kilometres driven while supporting you)
- Non-face-to-face time (care planning, reports, coordination)
Good providers are transparent about these. Some do not charge travel within a set service area.
What Does Not Get Charged
- The initial meeting to discuss your plan (should be free)
- Quotes and proposals
- General questions and phone calls
Comparison: Agency vs Independent
Agency rates follow the price guide. Independent workers through platforms like Mable or Hireup are often 10-20% cheaper because there is no agency overhead, but you manage the worker yourself. See agency vs independent support workers.
Non-Standard Supports
Some support types are rated differently:
- Community nursing is charged at a higher clinical rate because it is done by registered nurses
- Supported independent living has its own rate schedule based on rostered vs non-rostered hours
- Group activities (1:2, 1:3, 1:4) are charged per participant at a lower individual rate
Budgeting Your Plan
Most NDIS plans run for 12 months. Your plan document shows the total funding available across each category. Divide it by 52 (weeks) to see your rough weekly budget. Then work with your provider to build a schedule that fits.
A useful read: how to get more hours in your NDIS plan and how to maximise your NDIS home care plan.
Red Flags
- A provider who cannot tell you their rates
- Hidden travel charges that appear on invoices after the fact
- Cancellation fees that are excessive (a reasonable cancellation policy is 1-2 days notice)
- Charges for things you were told were free at the start
Getting a Clear Quote
Call +61 415 868 405 or contact Humility Support Services for a no-obligation conversation about rates for your specific situation. Related reading: what to expect from an NDIS support worker and what makes a good NDIS provider in Brisbane.
