Choosing the right path in your career as a support worker can make all the difference. Whether you require flexibility or crave consistency, finding the right type of role tailored to your preferences is key. Healthcare Australia (HCA) provides opportunities for agency shifts and direct shifts, making it easier for healthcare professionals to find roles that suit their lifestyles.
If you’re trying to decide between agency shifts or working directly for the NDIS or Home Care, this article will walk you through the benefits of each option.
Understanding the Basics
At HCA, support workers can choose to work directly for the NDIS or Home Care, or they can take on agency-based shifts through HCA’s Community Care team. Each choice has its unique advantages, depending on your needs and career goals.
What Are Agency Shifts?
Working agency shifts means flexibility. You have the power to choose shifts that suit your schedule, whether it’s weekdays, weekends, or nights. Using HCA’s award-winning eHCA app, you gain visibility over available shifts and can pick ones that fit your preferences.
What Are Direct Shifts?
Direct shifts, on the other hand, offer more consistency. These roles allow for longer-term relationships with clients by working directly through the NDIS or Home Care teams. It’s a great option for those who prefer steady rosters and a stable set of clients.
Benefits of Working Agency Shifts
Agency shifts come with significant perks, particularly for those who value variety and control over their schedules.
Flexibility and Control
With agency work, you select where and when you want to work. This flexibility is especially beneficial for professionals who need to balance personal commitments, study schedules, or other part-time jobs.
Diverse Opportunities
Agency shifts give you the chance to work across various environments, from home-based care to Supported Independent Living (SIL) settings. This variety lets you continually build your skills and experience.
Fast Payments
One of the key advantages of agency work at HCA is the ability to get paid quickly. You can receive your pay within 48 hours of completing a shift, making it a great option for those needing timely income.
Competitive Rates
Casual hourly rates for agency shifts are competitive, ranging from $32.15 to $40.56 on weekdays and up to $87.68 on public holidays.
Benefits of Direct Shifts
If consistency is your goal, working directly for the NDIS or Home Care might be the right choice for you.
Stable Client Relationships
Direct shifts allow you to build meaningful, long-term relationships with clients. By working with the same people, you develop trust and a deeper understanding of their needs.
Predictable Rosters
Unlike agency shifts, direct roles often come with consistent rosters, offering a clear picture of your upcoming work schedule. This can make planning your personal life much easier.
Additional Benefits
Permanent employees in direct roles receive extra perks such as annual leave and sick leave entitlements. Hourly rates for these positions range from $32 to $47 on weekdaysand up to $92 on public holidays, depending on your experience and qualifications.
Qualifications and Requirements
Regardless of whether you choose agency or direct shifts, there are some baseline requirements to work in the support sector. These include:
- A current CPR and First Aid Certificate
- A Working with Children Check (WWCC) and NDIS Worker Check (or willingness to acquire them)
- Evidence of three doses of COVID-19 vaccination
- At least six months of experience in disability services
- Ideally, a qualification in Disability, Individual Support, Mental Health, or Youth Services
- A current driver’s license
These qualifications ensure you’re prepared to provide high-quality care and support to participants.
Professional Development at HCA
One of the standout advantages of working with HCA is access to ongoing professional development. HCA offers support for all its workers, whether they’re casual agency staff or permanent employees.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Accredited education and training programs to elevate your skills.
- On-demand training opportunities for teams.
- The ability to earn CPD points and mandatory training certifications.
- Discounted training via HCA’s online Learning Management System (LMS).
- Incentives to transition into rural and remote care work for those seeking adventure.
At HCA, we’re committed to helping you grow your career.
Which Option is Best for You?
The choice between agency and direct shifts ultimately depends on your unique circumstances and professional goals. To help you decide, here’s a quick summary of the key differences:
| Feature | Agency Shifts | Direct Shifts |
| Flexibility | Choose shift locations and schedules. | Fixed rosters for consistent planning. |
| Payment | Paid within 48 hours of shift completion. | Annual leave and sick leave benefits. |
| Client Relationships | Work with a variety of clients. | Build long-term relationships with a stable client base. |
| Variety | Work across different settings in various locations. | Typically remain within a fixed role or location. |
| Rates | Competitive casual rates, up to $87.68/hour. | Higher permanent rates, up to $92/hour. |
How HCA Supports You
Whether you opt for agency work or direct employment, HCA is here to provide ongoing support and open doors to exciting career opportunities. From our NDIS and Home Care teams to Community Care placements nationwide, we match you with roles that align with your preferences and expertise.
With over 50 years of experience, our goal is to make your career as seamless and fulfilling as possible.
If you’re ready to find your next role in healthcare, contact our Recruitment team on 1300 422 247 or visit our website to explore available opportunities.
