Unlike a centre job where you work from one fixed location, in-home childcare work means travelling to a family home. Whether you need a car, and what insurance covers you while you work, are two of the most common questions from new applicants.
Do you need your own car?
A car is not a strict requirement to join the platform, but it significantly widens the number of families and suburbs you can be matched with. Carers relying on public transport can still be matched, but their available suburbs are naturally more limited by transit access.
What insurance covers you
As an in-home carer you work as an independent contractor, not an employee, which means you are responsible for your own insurance arrangements. Public liability insurance is the main cover carers hold, protecting against a claim if a child is injured while in your care. Many carers also hold professional indemnity cover.
What the platform verifies
We do not require a specific insurance policy to be uploaded at application stage, but families are informed that carers operate as independent contractors, and carers are strongly advised to hold public liability cover before accepting bookings.
Car insurance if you drive as part of the job
If you drive between your home and a family address, or transport children as part of your role (only with explicit family agreement), your standard comprehensive car insurance should cover this. Check with your insurer if the policy has any exclusions for using your vehicle for paid work, sometimes called "business use."
What you actually need before applying
- A Working With Children Check
- National police check
- HLTAID012 child-specific first aid
- Pertussis vaccination
- Public liability insurance (recommended, not mandatory to apply)
Qualified early childhood educator? Join Nest and Nurture Little Ones
One family at a time. Set your own hours. From 40 dollars per hour. Wednesday pay. We review every application within 5 business days.
See how it works