Sole Trader FAQs for Disability Support Workers in NSW

Thinking about becoming an independent disability support worker in New South Wales or the Australian Capital Territory? Working as a sole trader under the NDIS can give you more freedom, higher hourly rates, and control over your career. But it also comes with new responsibilities.

Below are the most common questions asked by support workers starting out as sole traders - along with how ASU membership can support you every step of the way.

What is a sole trader?

Do I need to register my business?

A sole trader is someone who runs their own business as an individual. You operate independently, are responsible for your own insurance, tax, and admin, and work directly with clients. It’s the simplest way to begin offering NDIS-funded services without joining a large provider.

Yes. You need to apply for an ABN (Australian Business Number) from the Australian Business Register. If you're using your personal name, you don't need to register a separate business name - but if you choose a brand name (e.g. "Jo's Support Services"), you’ll need to register it separately. As part of your ASU membership, we provide you with a Sole Trader Toolkit that provides you with what you need to navigate this process.

Do I need to register with the NDIS?

NDIS workers are required to complete competency assessments through the NDIS, and our Sole Trader Network provides access to helpful best practice resources to ensure you're at the top of your game.

What qualifications do I need?

The standard qualification is a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability). Having a Certificate IV or Diploma can open up higher-paying and more complex roles.

You’ll also need:

NDIS Worker Screening Check

Police Check

First Aid Certificate

Need help understanding what's required? ASU members can contact our team for one-on-one advice.

ASU members can learn about what they need to get started as Sole Trader in the NDIS, by attending the FREE ASU College course on Getting Started as a Sole Trader:

Working Independently in the NDIS

📅 Date: Wednesday 5 November ❗Time: 1:00 PM
Cost: FREE
Who can attend: ASU members only

Spots are limited – secure a spot by becoming a member – or if you’re already a member – register through the link below to secure your place.

Register for Sole Trader Course

What insurances do I need?

As a sole trader, you are legally responsible for your work. Insurance is essential:

Professional Indemnity Insurance (included in ASU membership)

Public Liability Insurance

Personal Accident / Income Protection (you’re not covered by WorkCover)

Comprehensive car insurance if using your vehicle for work

The ASU helps members understand and access these protections.

How much can I charge?

Sole traders often charge at least the SCHADS Award casual rates, depending on their skills, experience, and services. Rates are frequently higher than the Award casual rates ($43.23–$84.95/hour for standard weekday rates as of July 2025), as sole traders are responsible for covering their own leave, administration, insurance, and tax.

ASU members get access to expert advice to help calculate and understand fair and sustainable rates.

Do I get paid leave or super as a sole trader?

ASU sole traders were pivotal in securing an opt-in option for portable long service leave for sole traders. This means you can voluntarily register yourself as a sole trader to accrue portable long service leave (PLSL). This is great if you are only working sporadically in the sector or are a younger sole trader envisaging a long career in the sector. ASU members can get assistance with this process by emailing help@asu.org.au

Leave entitlements sole traders do not receive include:

Paid sick or annual leave

Employer-paid superannuation

WorkCover for injuries

That’s why it’s vital to:

Put aside your own leave and super

Have income protection insurance

Join the ASU for extra coverage like Journey Insurance and guidance on financial planning

Are sole traders eligible for portable long service leave (PLSL)?

ASU sole traders were pivotal in securing an opt-in option for portable long service leave for sole traders. This means you can voluntarily register yourself as a sole trader to accrue portable long service leave. This is great if you are only working sporadically in the sector or are a younger sole trader envisaging a long career in the sector.

What’s the difference between being a sole trader and a casual employee?

Casual Employee:

Paid via payroll
Gets super & payslips
Covered by WorkCover
Rostered by employer

Sole Trader:

Invoice clients directly
Pays own super & tax
Must arrange own insurance (some insurance is provided by ASU membership, see next section for details)
Sets own schedule

Can NDIS sole traders join a union?

Yes! The Australian Services Union (ASU) proudly represents hundreds of sole traders, independent support workers, and platform workers. Membership is also tax-deductible.

When you join the ASU, you get:

Professional Indemnity and Journey Insurance

Help setting rates, negotiating, or resolving disputes

Monthly Sole Trader Network Meetings

Access to our Sole Trader Toolkit

A community of independent workers just like you
Access to FREE professional development courses
Commercial discounts and savings through Union Shopper
Discounted or free legal support

What support does the ASU offer sole traders?

Being a sole trader doesn’t mean being on your own. ASU members who work independently get access to tailored support, resources, and protection.

Getting started: Our Sole Trader Kit includes practical setup guides and essential information on the documentation and processes you need to follow.

Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind with professional indemnity and journey insurance included in your membership.

Advocacy: We’re actively fighting to protect the NDIS and ensure disability support work is recognised as skilled, respected, and fairly paid.

Professional development: Access FREE webinars, training, and resources to grow your skills and stay informed.

Peer support: Join monthly online meetups and connect with a community of fellow independent workers.

What are the biggest challenges sole traders face?

Finding and keeping clients
Navigating NDIS compliance
Managing your own admin, taxes, and finances
Working in isolation (we recommend joining DSW Connect's Sole Traders Network)
No sick leave or paid holidays

With ASU membership, you get a trusted team behind you and a network of other support workers to learn from and connect with.

Need help getting started?

The ASU has everything you need to build a successful, sustainable career as a sole trader in the disability support sector.

📞 Call Mitch on 0484 063 404
📧 Email help@asu.org.au
🔗 Visit dswconnect.com.au

Join the ASU today - because you might be independent, but we’re always by your side.

Join the ASU