Pay As You Go EAP Options for Australian Startups and SMEs
Last Updated 5/8/25 By Vanessa Cortez
EAP Programs @ Mindway EAP
EAP Programs @ Mindway EAP
For many startups and SMEs in Australia, employee wellbeing is a priority, but committing to an expensive, annual Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can be daunting. That’s where Pay-As-You-Go EAP models shine. They offer flexibility, cost control, and scalability without sacrificing access to professional mental health support.
This article explores how Pay-As-You-Go EAPs work, their benefits for smaller teams, and the factors to consider before choosing one.
What You’ll Learn in This Article
This article explores how Pay-As-You-Go EAPs work, their benefits for smaller teams, and the factors to consider before choosing one.
What You’ll Learn in This Article
- What a Pay-As-You-Go EAP is and how it works
- Typical pricing for Australian providers in 2025
- Advantages for startups and SMEs
- How to compare providers and choose the right fit
- Common questions about usage limits and confidentiality
What is a Pay-As-You-Go EAP?
A Pay-As-You-Go EAP allows businesses to only pay when employees actually use the service, rather than committing to a fixed annual fee.
- Sessions are billed individually
- No large upfront costs
- Great for teams with fluctuating headcounts or unpredictable usage
Typical Pricing in Australia (2025)
While prices vary, here’s a general guide:
- Single session: $150–$250
- Prepaid bundles: $1,000–$2,500 for a set number of sessions
- No-lock-in contracts: Month-to-month flexibility
Employee:
I’ve been feeling really stressed lately, but I’m not sure if I can use the company’s EAP—do we even have one?
You:
Yes, we use a Pay-As-You-Go EAP. You can book a session whenever you need, and the company will cover the cost. It’s completely confidential.
Advantages for Startups and SMEs
Cost efficiency: Pay only when used
Scalability: Easy to add more sessions as the team grows
Low commitment: Avoid long-term contracts
Scalability: Easy to add more sessions as the team grows
Low commitment: Avoid long-term contracts
Quick setup: Often ready to launch within days
How to Compare Providers
When evaluating, check:
- Session rates and inclusions
- Access methods (phone, app, in-person)
- Availability outside business hours
- Reporting and confidentiality policies
"The right support at the right time can transform workplace wellbeing. Flexible EAP models ensure no business is too small to provide that support." - Australian HR Institute (AHRI)
Common Questions
Q: Will employees still get confidential support?
A: Yes. Reputable EAP providers maintain strict confidentiality, whether pay-as-you-go or annual subscription.
Q: What if no one uses it?
A: Yes. Reputable EAP providers maintain strict confidentiality, whether pay-as-you-go or annual subscription.
Q: What if no one uses it?
- A: You won’t be charged, but ongoing communication is key to promoting awareness.
Key Takeaways
- Flexible PricingPay-As-You-Go EAPs remove the need for large upfront costs, perfect for small teams.
- Scalable SupportEasily add more sessions as your business and team size grow.
- Confidentiality MaintainedEmployees get the same privacy as with annual programs.
- Accessible OptionsMany providers offer app-based or phone sessions, making support easy to reach.
Looking for Help with an EAP?
We Customise Every Program to Fit Your Organisation
We Customise Every Program to Fit Your Organisation
PAYG EAP
Flexible Support - Billed Per Session
Flexible Support - Billed Per Session
Ideal for organisations that want to start small and scale as needed. Only pay when your team uses the service.
Included in PAYG:
✔️ Pay per session model
✔️ Tailored Mindfulness Program
✔️ Professional support within 12–36 hours
✔️ 24/7/365 booking number
✔️ Real-time analytics portal
Complete EAP
All-Inclusive Support
All-Inclusive Support
Best for teams seeking consistent, proactive support with built-in sessions and added value for managers and leaders.
Includes everything in PAYG, plus:
✔️ Set sessions included per employee, per year.
✔️ Dedicated program specialist
✔️ Priority critical incident support
✔️ Monthly live leadership/manager training (mental health, leadership, communication & more)
"We’re extremely satisfied with the services and counselling provided. It’s great to see our staff benefiting from it." 28% of staff use services
Priya, HR Director
Rated 4.8/5 stars
Get Tailored EAP Quote
Support your team with personalised and fast support. Fill out the form below to get a personalised EAP for your organisation.
We never share your info with anyone
Supporting 10,000+ Employees, HR Teams & Owners
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic EAP
"I've been using Mindway EAP for some time now, and I must say it's been an invaluable tool for my personal well-being and have heard positive feedback from the team at large"
25% of staff use services
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One Of The Best
"Used 2 EAPs before, staff never really used either of them. Came across Mindway, and the way the app works fitted right into our staff's dynamic and culture."
36% of staff use services
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Google Review
"Ryder has been great and responsive to work with while setting up the EAP from a management perspective. I have had a great response from staff who have shared with me that they have used both the app and counselling services, noting that it has helped them a lot"