- →NDIS support worker rates are set by the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits — updated each July
- →Weekday daytime rates are approximately $67–$72/hr; Sunday and public holiday rates are significantly higher
- →Registered providers cannot charge above price guide rates for NDIA-managed or plan-managed participants
- →Self-managed participants can negotiate rates above or below the price guide
- →Always request itemised invoices showing the NDIS line item number, date, hours, and rate applied
NDIS support worker costs can feel confusing — especially when you notice your invoices showing different rates for what seems like the same type of support. The reason is that NDIS pricing varies by time of day, day of week, and the specific support type. This guide explains how it all works.
What is the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits document?
The NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (commonly called the NDIS Price Guide) is an official document published by the NDIA each financial year — typically in July when the new rates take effect. It sets the maximum hourly rates that registered NDIS providers can charge for each type of support when billing NDIA-managed or plan-managed participants.
Providers cannot charge above these rates for NDIA-managed or plan-managed participants. However, providers may charge below the price guide rates — and some do, particularly in competitive markets. Self-managed participants can negotiate any rate directly with their provider.
The price guide is publicly available at ndis.gov.au. Participants and their families are entitled to read it and verify that the rates on their invoices are correct.
NDIS support worker rates 2025–26
The following rates apply to the most common support worker line item for community participation and daily living assistance. Rates are approximate — exact figures depend on the specific line item and any applicable loadings. All rates are GST-exempt.
| Shift Type | Approximate Rate | Rate Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday daytime (6am–8pm Mon–Fri) | ~$67–$72/hr | 1.0× |
| Weekday evening (after 8pm Mon–Fri) | ~$74–$79/hr | ~1.10× |
| Saturday (all day) | ~$94–$100/hr | ~1.40× |
| Sunday (all day) | ~$111–$119/hr | ~1.65× |
| Public holiday (all day) | ~$138–$148/hr | ~2.07× |
| Sleepover (overnight stay, not active) | ~$265–$285 flat/night | Flat rate |
Rates are approximate figures for 2025–26 based on published NDIS Pricing Arrangements. Exact rates depend on the line item and support category. Verify current rates at ndis.gov.au before budgeting.
Why does weekend and public holiday support cost more?
The higher rates for evenings, weekends, and public holidays reflect the penalty rates that providers must pay their workers under the relevant award or enterprise agreement. Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday penalty rates are legally required under Australian employment law — the NDIS price guide is set to allow providers to cover these costs while remaining viable.
This is important to understand when planning your support schedule. If you have significant support needs on Sundays or public holidays, these shifts will consume your Core Supports budget faster than weekday shifts at the same number of hours.
What loadings and add-ons can providers charge?
Within the price guide, certain loading types are permitted for specific circumstances:
How to check if your invoices are correct
Every NDIS invoice from a registered provider should include:
- ✓The NDIS line item number (e.g. 01_002_0107_1_1 for standard daily activities)
- ✓The date and hours of each support shift
- ✓The hourly rate applied
- ✓Any loadings applied and the reason
- ✓The provider's ABN and NDIS registration number
Cross-reference the rates on your invoices against the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements document. If you are plan-managed, your plan manager should review invoices before payment and flag any anomalies. If you believe you have been overcharged, contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission on 1800 035 544.
What Lift & Live charges
Lift & Live bills at NDIS price guide rates — we apply the exact rate specified for each shift type with no mark-up, joining fee, or exit fee. Your service agreement will specify the line items and rates that apply to your support schedule before you commit to anything. We work with self-managed, plan-managed, and NDIA-managed participants.