In this episode, we’re clearing up one of the most misunderstood areas in the pet care industry, the difference between a contractor and an employee. I’ve seen so many business owners hire “contractors” when what they’ve really created is an employment situation… and trust me, the ATO won’t look the other way.

We’ll break down what defines a contractor vs. an employee (it’s not just about an ABN!), the pros and cons of each, and when it’s appropriate to hire one over the other. I’m also sharing the legal and operational risks of misclassifying your team, plus how to future proof your hiring decisions as your business grows.

Whether you’re scaling up, hiring your first team member, or wondering if you’ve got it right, this episode is your go to guide.

What I cover:

- The core differences between employees and contractors (hint: it’s not just about paperwork)

- Why misclassifying can cost you more than you think

- The situations where contractors can work well in pet care

- When you absolutely need employees instead

- Real world examples from the pet sitting and dog walking industry

If this episode gave you clarity, confidence, or even a little nudge to audit your current setup, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with a fellow business owner who needs to hear this! And if you’re still not sure what structure suits your business best, head to www.petindustrymentor.com to book a clarity session or check out my mentorship options.

E: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com

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