NDIS registered providers are individuals or businesses that have completed the NDIS registration process, been Audited by an NDIS Commission Auditor and Obtained their NDIS Accreditation.
Using NDIS-registered providers is more likely to provide you with quality and safe services. They are also more likely to follow the NDIS pricing guidelines and invoice directly through the NDIS.
Quality
NDIS registered providers have been independently vetted and their services are quality checked to meet the NDIS's practice standards. This gives you peace of mind that your provider will be delivering good quality services and supports.
It can also help you connect to a wider range of participants, who will be able to see that your services meet the NDIS's standards - a potential sales win for your business.
Using a registered provider means you are compelled to follow NDIS pricing guidelines and that your costs are covered. This can make your budget more flexible and can help you get the most out of your plan funding.
ndis registered providers also have to meet a variety of other requirements and have a complaints management system in place. This means that they are regulated in a more consistent way across all Australian states and territories.
Safety
If you choose to use a registered provider, you can trust that they have met stringent government quality and safety requirements for the type of services they provide. These requirements are in the NDIS Practice Standards, and the NDIS Commission regulates and monitors providers.
The NDIS Commission also handles complaints about unregistered providers, and can take action if it has evidence to do so. An investigation may occur as part of a complaint or during planned reviews.
As with registered providers, there are some important risks associated with using unregistered service providers. These include discrimination, exploitation and an elevated sense of risk for participants.
Whether to choose a registered or non-registered provider will depend on your needs, budget and goals for the NDIS. For many participants, the peace of mind that comes with a registered provider is worth the extra cost.
Reputation
Reputation can be a big deal in business. Everything you do, every press release you syndicate, and every person you hire has some kind of impact on your reputation.
NDIS registered providers have been verified by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, can claim their invoices directly from the NDIS, and have to adhere to a set of strict quality standards for the services they provide.
In addition, they are also heavily regulated and must follow the NDIS Code of Conduct and complaints process.
If you are unsure about whether a provider is registered or not, contact the NDIS for more information. They can provide a list of registered providers in your area and help you find a suitable one for you.
When you are choosing a service provider, it is important to take the time to do your research in-depth. Check their NDIS registration, ask for references and read up on their background information.
Cost
In Western Australia, registered providers are service providers who have satisfied stringent government quality and safety criteria to become NDIS approved. These providers must also comply with a price guide and can't charge more than the relevant NDIS rate for their services.
Whether you choose to become an NDIS registered provider depends on your business. There's a lot of work involved in getting registered, including regular audits against the NDIS Practice Standards that are expensive and time-consuming.
However, being an NDIS registered provider can also help you to reach more participants and offer a wider range of supports. Depending on how your NDIS plan is managed, you may be limited to only using registered providers.
In addition to the costs of becoming an NDIS registered provider, there are also ongoing operational costs. These include marketing to raise awareness of your business and the services you provide. Equipment and consumables are also an expense.
