NDIS Registered Providers – All You Need to Know

Choosing the right services to suit your requirements and goals can be difficult. This can get a little more confusing when some are labeled as ‘NDIS Registered Providers’ and some are not. Ensure that you do not ignore this difference, as the differences are at times overlooked which can lead to errors down the line. Depending on your plan management and funding plans, you can either use both non-registered and registered or only registered. Keep on reading to find out the differences, and to think about which one works best for you.

NDIS Registered… What Does This Mean?

When a provider is labeled as an ‘NDIS Registered Provider’ this means that they are formally audited to ensure that they meet the strict and safe requirements to assist the disabled community. These requirements ensure the safety, quality, and compliance set about by the NDIS safeguard commission. This is done primarily for the peace of mind of all participants who are supported by these providers. NDIS registered providers are a wide multitude of options – such as individuals, businesses, sole traders, or non-profit organisations.

Although some providers may not be NDIS Registered, this does not mean that they lack the above checks. They are not required to undergo a process for these checks. But generally, they are up to the same quality as NDIS registered providers. There are several reasons as to why they might not be NDIS registered. For example, smaller providers may not have enough money to invest into the registration process. Other reasons could include that these services may not specialise particularly in disability services as they are not aware to become NDIS registered. This indifference could generally be to a lack of knowledge. This seems particularly common in rural areas where not much news regarding this topic is widespread.

Can I Access Both Registered and Non-Registered Services?

Depending on the type of management plan you are on, you have a few options. Not all participants are able to access unregistered providers.

If your plan is managed by yourself or is plan managed- you are able to access both the registered and non-registered services. However, if your plan is managed by the NDIA, you are only able to access these registered providers. Evidently, if you manage your own plans, you have greater access to services. It is also up to your own judgment to decide which one works for you. For some, small and unregistered providers are suitable as they are able to create extremely personalised plans for their users. For others, they may opt to solely NDIS registered services for the peace of mind of ensured top quality services.

If you feel as though you should want to change your plan in order to access different services, you can always bring it up in a follow-up of your plan.

Will I Be Disadvantaged If I Use an Unregistered Provider?

As a general matter of fact, do not allow the ‘unregistered’ aspect of the provider to hinder you from using them. Although they do not entirely meet the same standards as registered providers, they do care greatly for their clients. There are multiple unregistered providers which go above and beyond in their levels of care for participants. Their passion is strong to ensure that they are aiding those in need. However, it is recommended that you do your own research about these providers, or even meet them for a consult to ensure that they tick all your boxes!

How Do I Find Registered NDIS Providers?

This step is super easy and should not be daunting at all. There are several via this link that you are able to come into contact with to ensure they are the right fit for you. They are able to be sorted via state/territory, the group they are registered with, provider name, and the provider status. There are many options to choose from, and thus you are bound to find a few you can shortlist.

These services provide a wide multitude of options, such as connecting individuals with social clubs, support groups, and doctors- just to name a few.

Sounds Good! Let’s Start

Now that you have a better idea of the difference between NDIS Registered and unregistered service providers, perhaps you can begin making a checklist of what you require. Following this, you can begin to look out for certain providers and see if you are eligible to access support from them. If need be, you can then change the way your plan is managed for full access to all.