The NDIS has completed its nationwide rollout, covering all regions of Australia. With over 530,000 participants now receiving NDIS funds for disability support and services, this has opened up numerous prospects for both new and established businesses seeking to venture into the disability industry. We frequently receive inquiries from providers on commencing their own NDIS enterprises, so here’s our concise guide.
How do I become an NDIS provider?
STEP 1. Complete the online application form
The NDIS Commission offers an online registration form for those interested in becoming NDIS Service Providers. When you submit this application, you will be required to:
- Provide information, which includes:
- Your organization’s contact details
- Details about your corporate structure
- Information about your operating locations
- Key personnel information.
- Choose the registration groups in which your organization will offer services. This choice determines the specific NDIS Practice Standards that will apply to your organization. Registration groups are organized based on the type of support they provide, each associated with varying levels of delivery risk. The Provider Registration Guide to Suitability contains a list of all registration groups if you want to take a look before you start your application.
- Conduct a self-assessment:
- Every provider completes an NDIS Self Assessment aligned with the relevant NDIS Practice Standards corresponding to the services your organization intends to provide.
- You may also need to upload supporting evidence of the services you plan to offer.
STEP 2. Select an approved quality auditor
Once you’ve submitted your online application, you can expect to receive an ‘initial scope of audit’ document via email from the NDIS Commission. This document outlines the specific registration requirements that pertain to your organization.
This document will clarify:
- Whether your organization necessitates a ‘verification’ or ‘certification’ audit.
- What your organization must demonstrate to meet the applicable NDIS Practice Standards.
Following this, your next step involves enlisting the services of an approved quality auditor who will conduct the required audit.
STEP 3. Undergo an Audit
Every provider seeking NDIS registration must complete an audit aligned with the relevant NDIS Practice Standards, as mandated by the NDIS Commission’s registration criteria.
Under the new NDIS Commission, there are two paths to follow:
- Verification Audit: This route is for providers offering lower-risk or less complex services. During verification, NDIS Providers provide documentation demonstrating compliance with the four outcomes in the Verification Module of the NDIS Practice Standards.
- Certification Audit: Certification is required for services and supports that involve higher risk or greater complexity. If your organization offers a mix of services, and even just one falls into a high-risk registration group, you’ll need to undergo a certification audit.
It’s worth noting that while there’s no fee for applying to become a registered NDIS provider, there is a cost associated with the audit process. This cost varies depending on the type of services you provide. For instance, if your services are categorized as ‘high risk,’ such as behaviour support, you’ll need to undergo a Certification Audit, which can be more costly than a Verification Audit, typically used for services like gardening, etc.
STEP 4. The NDIS Commission assesses your application and makes a decision
Upon reviewing your application, the NDIS Commission will:
- Evaluate Audit Results: They will assess the outcomes of the audit conducted.
- Perform Suitability Assessment: A suitability assessment of both your organization and its key personnel will be conducted. Key personnel encompasses individuals holding pivotal executive, managerial, or operational roles within your organization, including Directors, Managers, Board Members, Chief Executive Officers, or Chairpersons. It’s imperative to include all key personnel in your application.
The NDIS will make a determination regarding your application. You will be contacted to inform you of the outcome, whether it’s an approval or not, and they will provide the reasons underlying their decision.
STEP 5. Receive your application outcome
For those whose applications are approved, you will be issued a registration certificate. This document will detail the specific services or supports you are authorized to offer, the duration of your registration, and any stipulated conditions that must be adhered to for maintaining your registration.
In the case of unsuccessful applications, you have the option to reach out to the NDIS Commission for a review within three months of the decision. If, after this review, your application remains unsuccessful, you can pursue an additional review through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
Conclusion
The NDIS provider registration process demands attention to detail and adherence to standards. By following the steps outlined, you can become a valuable contributor to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through your services.
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