Understanding NDIS support worker pay rates can be confusing. There’s a difference between what the NDIS pays providers (the Price Guide), what providers must pay workers (the SCHADS Award), and what workers actually take home. Whether you’re a support worker, NDIS carer (another common term for support workers), or participant, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Latest Update (November 2025): This guide reflects the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 v1.1, effective 24 November 2025.
This guide breaks down all the rates for 2025-26, including the November 2025 price updates, public holiday penalty rates, night shift loadings, and real-world earnings for different scenarios.
NDIS Support Worker Pay Rates 2025-26 (Quick Summary)
| Shift Type | NDIS Price Limit | Worker Receives (SCHADS) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday Daytime | $70.23/hr | $30-$45/hr |
| Saturday | $98.66/hr | $45-$68/hr |
| Sunday | $127.08/hr | $60-$90/hr |
| Public Holiday | $155.51/hr | $75-$112/hr |
How Much Do NDIS Support Workers Get Paid Per Hour?
The amount an NDIS support worker (or NDIS carer) gets paid depends on their classification level under the SCHADS Award and the type of shift they work. Entry-level workers start around $30/hr, while experienced workers can earn $45+/hr before penalty rates. Weekend and public holiday shifts significantly boost earnings.
What Is the NDIS Hourly Rate for Support Workers in 2025?
The current NDIS price limit for standard support work is $70.23 per hour on weekdays (as of November 2025). This is the maximum providers can charge participants—not what workers receive. Workers typically earn between $30-$45/hr depending on their level, with the rest covering provider overheads.
NDIS Pay Rate Changes November 2025
The NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 v1.1, effective 24 November 2025, includes updated price limits for disability support worker services.
Key points:
- Standard support weekday rate increased to $70.23/hr (up from $67.56/hr)
- High intensity weekday rate increased to $73.08/hr
- All weekend and public holiday rates adjusted accordingly
- The increase applies to all support types and shift times
Understanding the Two Rate Systems
NDIS Price Guide vs SCHADS Award
| Aspect | NDIS Price Guide | SCHADS Award |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Maximum price providers can charge | Minimum wage providers must pay |
| Who sets it | NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) | Fair Work Commission |
| Purpose | Caps participant costs | Protects worker pay |
| Typical weekday rate | $70.23/hr (standard support) | $30-$40/hr (depending on level) |
The gap between these rates covers provider overheads: superannuation, insurance, workers compensation, leave entitlements, training, administration, and profit margin.
NDIS Price Guide Rates 2025-26 (What Participants Pay)
These are the maximum hourly rates providers can charge under the NDIS as of November 2025. They’re national rates—the same in QLD, VIC, NSW, and all other states.
Standard Support Worker Rates
| Support Type | Line Item | Weekday | Saturday | Sunday | Public Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (Level 1) | 01_011_0107_1_1 | $70.23 | $98.66 | $127.08 | $155.51 |
| High Intensity (Level 2) | 01_012_0107_1_1 | $73.08 | $102.66 | $132.25 | $161.83 |
Community Participation Rates
| Support Type | Line Item | Weekday | Saturday | Sunday | Public Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Participation (Standard) | 04_104_0125_6_1 | $70.23 | $98.66 | $127.08 | $155.51 |
| Community Participation (High Intensity) | 04_105_0125_6_1 | $73.08 | $102.66 | $132.25 | $161.83 |
Night and Sleepover Rates
| Support Type | Line Item | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Active Night Support | 01_015_0107_1_1 | $77.93/hr |
| Night-Time Sleepover | 01_010_0107_1_1 | $298.48/night |
Group Support Rates (Per Participant)
| Ratio | Weekday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:2 (2 participants) | $39.59 | $55.60 | $71.61 |
| 1:3 (3 participants) | $28.59 | $40.17 | $51.74 |
| 1:4 (4 participants) | $23.04 | $32.37 | $41.70 |
SCHADS Award Rates 2025 (What Workers Receive)
The SCHADS (Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry) Award sets the minimum wage providers must pay support workers.
Base Hourly Rates by Level
| Level | Description | Base Rate (Full/Part-Time) | Casual Rate (+25%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Entry level, basic support | $30.02 - $31.45/hr | $37.53 - $39.31/hr |
| Level 2 | Standard support worker | $34.58 - $37.73/hr | $43.23 - $47.16/hr |
| Level 3 | Experienced/specialised | $38.65 - $41.45/hr | $48.31 - $51.81/hr |
| Level 4 | Senior/team leader | $45.10 - $48.90/hr | $56.38 - $61.13/hr |
| Level 5 | Supervisor/coordinator | $53.31 - $56.90/hr | $66.64 - $71.13/hr |
What Determines Your Level?
| Level | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | No formal qualifications, under direct supervision |
| Level 2 | Certificate III or equivalent experience, some autonomy |
| Level 3 | Certificate IV or significant experience, complex care skills |
| Level 4 | Diploma or equivalent, team leadership responsibilities |
| Level 5 | Advanced diploma, program coordination |
NDIS Support Worker Public Holiday Rates
Public holiday rates are significantly higher than standard rates. Here’s what to expect:
Public Holiday Price Limits (What Participants Pay)
| Support Type | Standard Weekday | Public Holiday | Loading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Support | $70.23 | $155.51 | +121% |
| High Intensity | $73.08 | $161.83 | +121% |
| Community Participation | $70.23 | $155.51 | +121% |
Public Holiday Award Rates (What Workers Receive)
| Level | Base Rate | Public Holiday (×2.5) |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $30.02 | $75.05 |
| Level 2 | $34.58 | $86.45 |
| Level 3 | $38.65 | $96.63 |
| Level 4 | $45.10 | $112.75 |
Important: Public holidays include New Year’s Day, Australia Day, Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day, Queen’s Birthday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, plus any state-specific holidays.
Night Shift and Evening Loadings
Evening Shift Rates (6pm - 10pm)
Evening shifts attract a 10% loading on top of the base rate:
| Level | Base Rate | Evening Rate (+10%) |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $30.02 | $33.02 |
| Level 2 | $34.58 | $38.04 |
| Level 3 | $38.65 | $42.52 |
Night Shift Rates (10pm - 6am)
Night shifts attract a 15% loading on top of the base rate:
| Level | Base Rate | Night Rate (+15%) |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $30.02 | $34.52 |
| Level 2 | $34.58 | $39.77 |
| Level 3 | $38.65 | $44.45 |
Sleepover Allowance
When a support worker stays overnight at a participant’s home:
- Sleepover allowance: $60.02 per night
- Plus payment for any active support provided during the night
- NDIS price limit for sleepovers: $298.48 per night
Weekend Penalty Rates
Saturday Rates
| Rate Type | Multiplier | Example (Level 2 Base $34.58) |
|---|---|---|
| SCHADS Award | ×1.5 | $51.87/hr |
| NDIS Price Limit | - | $98.66/hr |
Sunday Rates
| Rate Type | Multiplier | Example (Level 2 Base $34.58) |
|---|---|---|
| SCHADS Award | ×2.0 | $69.16/hr |
| NDIS Price Limit | - | $127.08/hr |
NDIS Sunday Support Worker Rates 2025
Sunday is the highest-paying regular day for NDIS support workers. Under the SCHADS Award, Sunday rates are 200% of the base hourly rate (double time).
Quick Reference: Sunday Rates by Level
| Support Level | Base Rate | Sunday Rate (2x) | NDIS Price Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Entry) | $30.02 | $60.04/hr | $127.08/hr |
| Level 2 (Cert III) | $34.58 | $69.16/hr | $127.08/hr |
| Level 3 (Cert IV) | $38.65 | $77.30/hr | $127.08/hr |
| Level 4 (Senior) | $45.10 | $90.20/hr | $127.08/hr |
| High Intensity | $34.58 | $69.16/hr | $132.25/hr |
Why Work Sundays as an NDIS Support Worker?
Double time pay makes Sundays incredibly lucrative. A support worker doing a single 8-hour Sunday shift earns what would take 16 hours to earn on weekdays.
Example earnings for an 8-hour Sunday shift:
- Level 1: $60.04 x 8 = $480.32
- Level 2: $69.16 x 8 = $553.28
- Level 3: $77.30 x 8 = $618.40
Compare this to weekday earnings for the same 8 hours:
- Level 1: $30.02 x 8 = $240.16
- Level 2: $34.58 x 8 = $276.64
- Level 3: $38.65 x 8 = $309.20
Sunday Night Shift Rates
If you work a Sunday night shift (10pm onwards), you receive both the Sunday loading (2x) and the night shift loading (+15%):
| Level | Base Rate | Sunday Night Rate | 8-Hour Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $30.02 | $69.05/hr | $552.40 |
| Level 2 | $34.58 | $79.53/hr | $636.24 |
| Level 3 | $38.65 | $88.90/hr | $711.20 |
NDIS Saturday Support Worker Rates 2025
Saturday rates provide 150% of the base hourly rate (time and a half) under the SCHADS Award.
Quick Reference: Saturday Rates by Level
| Support Level | Base Rate | Saturday Rate (1.5x) | NDIS Price Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Entry) | $30.02 | $45.03/hr | $98.66/hr |
| Level 2 (Cert III) | $34.58 | $51.87/hr | $98.66/hr |
| Level 3 (Cert IV) | $38.65 | $57.98/hr | $98.66/hr |
| Level 4 (Senior) | $45.10 | $67.65/hr | $98.66/hr |
| High Intensity | $34.58 | $51.87/hr | $102.66/hr |
Saturday vs Sunday: Which Pays More?
| Comparison | Saturday (1.5x) | Sunday (2x) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 2 hourly | $51.87 | $69.16 | +$17.29/hr |
| 8-hour shift | $414.96 | $553.28 | +$138.32 |
| 10 shifts/month | $4,149.60 | $5,532.80 | +$1,383.20 |
The verdict: Sunday shifts pay 33% more than Saturday shifts.
Australian Public Holiday Calendar 2025-2026
NDIS public holiday rates (225-250% of base) apply on these dates. These are the highest-paying shifts of the year for support workers.
National Public Holidays 2025
| Holiday | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January 2025 | Wednesday |
| Australia Day | 27 January 2025 | Monday (observed) |
| Good Friday | 18 April 2025 | Friday |
| Easter Saturday | 19 April 2025 | Saturday |
| Easter Monday | 21 April 2025 | Monday |
| Anzac Day | 25 April 2025 | Friday |
| Queen’s Birthday | Varies by state | See below |
| Christmas Day | 25 December 2025 | Thursday |
| Boxing Day | 26 December 2025 | Friday |
National Public Holidays 2026
| Holiday | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January 2026 | Thursday |
| Australia Day | 26 January 2026 | Monday |
| Good Friday | 3 April 2026 | Friday |
| Easter Saturday | 4 April 2026 | Saturday |
| Easter Monday | 6 April 2026 | Monday |
| Anzac Day | 27 April 2026 | Monday (observed) |
| Christmas Day | 25 December 2026 | Friday |
| Boxing Day | 28 December 2026 | Monday (observed) |
Queen’s Birthday 2025-2026 by State
| State | 2025 Date | 2026 Date |
|---|---|---|
| ACT, NSW, NT, SA, TAS, VIC | 9 June 2025 | 8 June 2026 |
| Queensland | 6 October 2025 | 5 October 2026 |
| Western Australia | 23 September 2025 | 28 September 2026 |
State-Specific Public Holidays
Victoria:
- Melbourne Cup Day: First Tuesday in November (4 November 2025)
- AFL Grand Final Friday: Friday before Grand Final (26 September 2025)
Queensland:
- Royal Queensland Show (Ekka): Second Wednesday in August (Brisbane only)
New South Wales:
- Bank Holiday: First Monday in August (4 August 2025)
South Australia:
- Adelaide Cup Day: Second Monday in March
- Proclamation Day: 24 December
Western Australia:
- Western Australia Day: First Monday in June
Tasmania:
- Royal Hobart Regatta: Second Monday in February (Southern Tasmania)
Northern Territory:
- May Day: First Monday in May
- Picnic Day: First Monday in August
ACT:
- Reconciliation Day: 27 May 2025
- Family & Community Day: Monday after first Sunday in September
Public Holiday Pay Calculation
Under the SCHADS Award, public holiday rates are 250% of base rate (2.5x):
| Level | Base Rate | Public Holiday Rate (2.5x) | 8-Hour Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $30.02 | $75.05/hr | $600.40 |
| Level 2 | $34.58 | $86.45/hr | $691.60 |
| Level 3 | $38.65 | $96.63/hr | $773.04 |
| Level 4 | $45.10 | $112.75/hr | $902.00 |
Tip: If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, you typically receive the higher rate (usually public holiday rates).
How Much Do NDIS Support Workers Actually Earn?
Real-world earnings depend on your classification level, shift mix, and employment type.
Annual Salary Estimates (Full-Time, 38 hours/week)
| Level | Base Only | With Typical Penalties | With High Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $59,400 | $65,000 - $70,000 | $75,000 - $85,000 |
| Level 2 | $68,400 | $75,000 - $82,000 | $88,000 - $98,000 |
| Level 3 | $76,400 | $84,000 - $92,000 | $98,000 - $110,000 |
| Level 4 | $89,200 | $98,000 - $108,000 | $115,000 - $128,000 |
“Typical penalties” assumes 20% of shifts are weekends/evenings. “High penalties” assumes 40%+ weekend/evening/night work.
Casual Worker Earnings
Casual workers receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements:
| Level | Casual Rate | Weekly (38 hrs) | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $37.53 | $1,426 | $74,200 |
| Level 2 | $43.23 | $1,643 | $85,400 |
| Level 3 | $48.31 | $1,836 | $95,500 |
| Level 4 | $56.38 | $2,142 | $111,400 |
Independent Contractor Rates
Self-employed support workers typically charge 10-20% above the NDIS price limit to cover their own insurance, super, and business costs:
| Shift Type | NDIS Price Limit | Typical Contractor Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday | $70.23 | $52-$63/hr |
| Saturday | $98.66 | $73-$89/hr |
| Sunday | $127.08 | $94-$114/hr |
| Public Holiday | $155.51 | $115-$140/hr |
State-Specific Information
NDIS Pay Rates Queensland (QLD)
Queensland follows national NDIS price limits and SCHADS Award rates. The rates above apply across the state, from Brisbane to regional areas.
QLD-specific notes:
- Queensland Day (in June) is a state public holiday with penalty rates
- Remote area loadings may apply in Far North QLD
- Same NDIS price caps as other states
NDIS Pay Rates Victoria (VIC)
Victoria also follows national NDIS pricing. Melbourne and regional Victorian providers use the same rate structure.
VIC-specific notes:
- Melbourne Cup Day (November) attracts public holiday rates in metropolitan Melbourne
- Grand Final Friday is a public holiday in Victoria
- Same NDIS price caps as other states
NDIS Pay Rates New South Wales (NSW)
NSW follows the national NDIS Price Guide and SCHADS Award.
NSW-specific notes:
- Bank Holiday (first Monday in August) is a state public holiday
- Same NDIS price caps as other states
Additional Allowances for Support Workers
Beyond base rates and penalty loadings, support workers may receive:
| Allowance | Amount | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle/Mileage | $0.99/km | Using personal vehicle for work |
| First Aid | $20.46/week | If required to hold first aid certificate |
| Uniform | $1.23/shift | If required to wear/maintain uniform |
| On-Call (Weekday) | $24.50/day | On-call but not actively working |
| On-Call (Weekend) | $48.51/day | On-call on weekends/public holidays |
| Meal Allowance | $18.49 | If required to work through meal break |
Free Tools to Calculate Pay and Income
Use our free calculators to estimate rates and earnings:
- Support Worker Income Calculator - Calculate weekly, monthly, and annual income based on your shifts
- NDIS Pay Rate Calculator - Calculate NDIS price limits for different support types
- NDIS Travel Calculator - Calculate travel allowances and kilometre rates
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the NDIS Price Guide and what support workers get paid?
The NDIS Price Guide sets the maximum price providers can charge participants. The SCHADS Award sets the minimum wage providers must pay workers. The difference covers employer costs like superannuation, insurance, workers compensation, and overheads.
How much do NDIS support workers get paid per hour in 2025?
Under the SCHADS Award, support workers earn $30-$57 per hour depending on their classification level. Casual workers receive an additional 25% loading. Weekend and night shifts attract penalty rates that can more than double the base rate.
What is the NDIS Sunday rate?
The NDIS Sunday rate (price limit) for standard support is $127.08 per hour as of November 2025. For high intensity support, it’s $132.25/hr. Support workers themselves receive double time under the SCHADS Award—for example, a Level 2 worker earns $69.16/hr on Sundays (2x their $34.58 base rate).
What is the NDIS Saturday rate?
The NDIS Saturday rate (price limit) for standard support is $98.66 per hour as of November 2025. For high intensity support, it’s $102.66/hr. Support workers receive time-and-a-half under the SCHADS Award—a Level 2 worker earns $51.87/hr on Saturdays (1.5x their $34.58 base rate).
How much do support workers get paid on public holidays?
Under the SCHADS Award, support workers receive 250% of their base rate (2.5x) on public holidays. For example, a Level 2 worker earning $34.58/hr base rate would receive $86.45/hr on a public holiday. The NDIS price limit for standard support on public holidays is $155.51/hr.
Do NDIS price increases go directly to support workers?
Not automatically. NDIS price limit increases apply to what participants pay. Provider organisations decide whether to pass this on as wage increases. However, the SCHADS Award sets minimum wages that all providers must pay, and these are updated annually.
What is Level 1, 2, 3 support worker?
Support worker levels reflect experience and qualifications:
- Level 1: Entry-level, basic personal care, works under supervision
- Level 2: Certificate III qualified, standard support duties
- Level 3: Certificate IV or extensive experience, complex care, specialised skills
How does travel pay work for NDIS support workers?
Providers can claim travel time between participants (capped at 30 mins metro, 60 mins regional). Workers should be paid for this travel time. Kilometre allowance is $0.99/km when using a personal vehicle.
Are NDIS rates the same in all states?
Yes, NDIS price limits are national—the same rates apply in QLD, VIC, NSW, SA, WA, TAS, NT, and ACT. The SCHADS Award is also federal, so minimum wages are consistent across states.
What is TTP in NDIS pricing?
TTP (Temporary Transformation Payment) was a conditional loading providers could claim during NDIS transition. It’s being phased out and replaced with the standard price limits.
Get the Right Support for Your Plan
Understanding NDIS pricing helps you make informed decisions about your support. Whether you’re a participant budgeting your plan or a support worker understanding your pay, knowing the rates is the first step.
At MD Home Care, we believe in transparent pricing and fair worker pay. We can help you understand your NDIS funding and connect you with quality support workers.
Contact MD Home Care today for a free consultation about your support needs.
This guide reflects NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 v1.1 (effective 24 November 2025) and SCHADS Award rates. Rates are updated periodically—check the current NDIS Price Guide and Fair Work website for the latest figures.
