When it comes to selecting a Support Worker, trust matters. As a registered NDIS provider that supports people with disability, Living My Way understands how important it is to feel safe, respected and genuinely understood by the people around you. That’s why our Employ Your Own Support Worker service is built around this core idea: you get to choose who supports you, while we help manage the behind-the-scenes admin.
Your Support Worker doesn’t have to be unfamiliar – you might find there are options from people you already know. People who ‘get’ you.
By employing your own Support Worker, you can employ someone you already trust, whether that’s a friend, a neighbour, or even your sports coach. It’s all about finding the right fit for you.
Support from someone you know
Imagine this: your Support Worker is someone who already understands your daily routine, your sense of humour, your goals, and your preferences. Someone who knows how you like your coffee, or when you need quiet time versus a chat. This kind of natural connection can make a big difference in your wellbeing and your independence.
Here are just some of the people who could be your Support Worker under the Employ Your Own model:
- Friend: Someone who already spends time with you and understands your personality.
- Neighbour: A familiar face who knows your community and is nearby when you need them.
- Flatmate: The person you share your home with might also be able to support your daily living.
- Personal trainer: They already know your physical goals and can support you to stay active and motivated.
- Sports or dance coach: They’re not just about sport; they can help you move, connect and have fun.
- A family friend: Someone you’ve known for years, and who understands your family and your needs.
- Barista or local shopkeeper: You’d be surprised how many everyday connections can turn into trusted support roles.
- Teammate or classmate: Someone you already spend time with during study or sport might be the right person to support you in other areas too.
- Driver: If you regularly travel with the same person, they could support you more broadly.
- Someone from your local faith group: Shared values and community connection can build a strong Support Worker relationship.
With Employ Your Own, the possibilities are wide open. It means that support can fit into your life and lifestyle, not the other way around.
Can a family member be my Support Worker?
We’re often asked if a family member can become a Support Worker. The answer is: sometimes.
The NDIS will generally only fund family members to provide support in exceptional circumstances, such as when there are no other suitable support options available, or in very specific cultural or remote contexts.
If you’re considering this option, we recommend reviewing the NDIS guidelines on family supports or speaking with our team to explore what’s possible in your situation.
Why choose the Employ Your Own Support Worker service?
Choosing your own Support Worker through Living My Way’s Employ Your Own service gives you more control, flexibility and comfort. It means you can:
- Decide who comes into your home and when
- Build stronger, more personalised relationships
- Choose someone who fits your lifestyle and needs
- Create consistent routines with people you already know
- Feel safe and respected in your daily interactions
When you feel supported by someone who really understands you, your confidence can grow. You may feel more empowered to take on new activities, reach your goals, and live the life you choose.
How Living My Way helps you
Employing a Support Worker might sound a little daunting at first, but we’re here to help you with the admin and guidance you need to meet your employer responsibilities.
Living My Way supports you through every step of the process:
- Recruitment and employment setup
- Payroll and tax obligations
- Workplace safety and training
- Insurances and HR assistance
- Ongoing advice and support
Whether you’re thinking about hiring your gym buddy or your next-door neighbour, we’ll help make sure everything is in place so your working relationship is clear, legal and beneficial to both of you.
How does it work? Check out our new explainer video to find out!
Our new explainer video is a quick, clear look at how our Employ Your Own Support Worker Service works and why it might be the right fit for you.
Whether you’re already part of the Living My Way community or just exploring your options, the video shows how the Employ Your Own model offers more choice, control, and connection. It also shares real experiences from people with disability employing their own Support Workers.
Your choice. Your team. Your way.
With the Employ Your Own model, you’re not just getting help, you’re building a support team your way, with people you trust.
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish [insert name] could be my Support Worker,” then now might be the time to explore it.
Want to learn more? Let’s chat.
If you’d like to learn more about our Employ Your Own Support Worker Service, please reach out to the Living My Way team today. You can call us on (02) 8525 4000, email us via operations@lmwl.org.au or complete our online enquiry form.
We’re here to help you navigate the process, answer your questions, and support you to take the next step toward living life your way.