Payment
Payment can be made directly to either:
- the home helper
- the organisation providing the Home Help or
- in exceptional circumstances to the client
The maximum hourly rate of Home Help payable for Multiple Births, Domestic Emergency and Domestic Support is $25.21 per hour plus holiday pay (which equals $27.23 per hour) as at 1 April 2026.
When Home Help is provided by an agency registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST), pay GST on the total amount, that is:
- hourly rate plus holiday pay
- plus travel allowance (if applicable)
- plus GST
If you think there is a good reason why payment should be made directly to the client, contact Helpline to discuss.
Home-helpers may also be able to receive assistance for their travel costs in addition to the hourly rate.
Absence
Home Help cannot be paid if the client is absent unless the support is essential for other family members e.g. an elderly partner or children.
Absence includes temporary or a permanent absence for example on holiday or in hospital.
