Insurance for NDIS support workers
An independent support worker should have at least public liability insurance, and usually professional indemnity too. Because sole traders aren't covered by workers' compensation, personal accident or income protection cover is worth having. If you drive participants, check your car policy covers business use. Registered providers must have insurance appropriate to their supports, and auditors check it.
The main types of cover
| Cover | What it covers | Do you need it? |
|---|---|---|
| Public liability | Injury to someone or damage to their property caused by your work, such as breaking something in a participant's home | Yes. Plan managers, platforms and participants often ask for a certificate of currency. |
| Professional indemnity | Claims that your advice or service caused a loss, such as a medication or care error | Strongly recommended for personal care |
| Personal accident / income protection | Your income if you're injured or sick and can't work | Recommended: no workers' compensation for sole traders |
| Car insurance for business use | Driving to shifts and transporting participants | Yes if you drive for work; tell your insurer |
Many insurers sell combined policies for disability support workers. Compare the cover amount, what's excluded (for example, certain personal care tasks) and whether the policy names NDIS support work.
Registered providers
The NDIS Practice Standards expect registered providers to manage risk, including having appropriate insurance for the supports they deliver. Have your certificates of currency ready for the audit. See registration cost.
Before you take a new participant
- Is every support in your service agreement covered by your policy?
- Does the policy cover the places you work: the participant's home, the community, your car?
- Is the certificate of currency up to date, and does the plan manager or platform have a copy?
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Is insurance compulsory for unregistered NDIS support workers?
There's no NDIS rule requiring it for unregistered workers, but working without public liability cover leaves you personally exposed, and many participants and platforms won't engage you without it.
Is insurance tax-deductible?
Business insurance such as public liability and professional indemnity is generally a deductible business expense. Income protection has its own rules; ask your tax agent.
Can I claim insurance costs from the NDIS?
No. Insurance is part of your business costs, covered by the rate you charge. See pay rates.
Sources: NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, NDIS Practice Standards; ATO guidance on business deductions. Checked 31 October 2026. General information, not insurance or tax advice: compare policies and read the product disclosure statement.