The following information is provided to help parents with employment arrangements.
Find a Babysitter is a trusted jobs platform, where parents can find the ideal babysitter or nanny for their family.
As Australia's leading babysitter and nanny job site and app - parents can find the perfect match in an easy and affordable way. Parents can find their ideal nanny by posting a job and messaging carers through our secure app and site.
Find A Babysitter is not involved in any employment arrangements and does not make any recommendations.
It is the responsibility of the parent and nanny or babysitter to follow through with the employment details. We can, however, provide some points to consider.
Nanny Job Description
Describe the babysitter or nanny's duties, including the details of the childcare, driving required, any domestic duties, food preparation and other child-related tasks. To help with this step check our handy tips about what is a nanny and what is a babysitter.
Nanny or Babysitter Pay
State the nanny's rate per hour / day / week or the base salary. Consider the payment method and frequency. Allow for other expenses (including outings), allowances (e.g., car and petrol) or reimbursements. Plan a remuneration review after a set timeframe. e.g., 12 months. Here is a summary of the range of what to pay a nanny based on the rates stated on the nannies' profiles on Find A Babysitter. Additionally these are the hourly rates advertised by babysitters on our site. Please note that these rates vary and parents should be guided by minimum rates set by Fair Work Australia. For detailed information about the Australian Pay and Classification Scales go to Fair Work Australia
Term of Nanny Employment
Discuss what is expected of the babysitter or nanny for the duration of the employment. Plan a probationary period and performance review dates. Agree on the minimum notice period for termination.
Conditions of Nanny Employment
State the nanny's normal hours of work, overtime, leave entitlements (annual leave, public holidays, sick leave).
Superannuation for a Nanny or Babysitter
According to the law, employers are required to pay superannuation if a nanny is working more than 30 hrs/wk in a childcare or domestic capacity. For more detail pease refer to the ATO's Superannuation Guarantee website.
Nanny Insurance
It is wise to explore Public Liability Insurance to cover accidents. Some cover may be under the employer's Home & Contents policies. Otherwise nannies or babysitters may consider taking out cover with an insurer. An insurance company offering specific cover for nannies is NannySure (no affiliation). Consider Automobile Insurance if required.
Domestic Workers Compensation for Nannies
Under Workers Compensation legislation, employers may be required to insure carers for Domestic Workers Compensation Insurance. Legislation varies from state to state and may be available as an extension to the employer's existing home and contents policy (provided the insurer is licensed to sell it). Employers can contact WorkCover in their state for further information.
Income Tax for Babysitters and Nannies
Generally, under the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) system, employers may need to withhold tax from payments made to employees, and then send these amounts to the ATO. There is a tax free threshold of $18,200. For more information see the ATO website
Nanny Employment Agreement
To formalise these points, you may consider writing an agreement or contract. There are basic 'employment agreements' available online from a range of providers. Fair Work Australia has a long list of templates that may be helpful.
We hope these tips help you clearly define the role and expectations for your nanny or babysitter, so you can plan for success.
