Report: NDIS Participants and Families who use Direct Employment

By Self Manager Hub

Keywords | Choice and control | NDIS | News | report

Category | Free resource | Build your team | News

Formats | Article

This report shares the experiences of 73 NDIS participants and families who directly employ their support workers, often through arrangements known as Services for One. It was written by the Direct Employers Network with support from the Self Manager Hub.

The research shows that direct employment gives people with disability and our families greater choice, control, safety, and stability. Many participants use this approach because traditional service providers couldn’t meet their needs. Direct employers build small, skilled teams who understand the person well and provide consistent, person-centred support.

The report also highlights challenges such as complex paperwork, inconsistent NDIA advice, and a lack of clear guidance on how to meet legal and compliance responsibilities. It calls for the NDIA to partner with peer-led organisations like the Self Manager Hub to create practical resources, fair claiming options, and better training for NDIA staff.

In short, the findings show that direct employment works — it helps people live better, safer, and more independent lives.

You can read the full report here.

Learn more about building your own Service for One with this workshop recording, Creating Your Own NDIS Support Service