When you compare NDIS providers, you’ll often see the words “registered provider”. It’s worth knowing what sits behind that label. Registration isn’t a one-off form: to get registered, and to stay registered, a provider has to pass an independent audit against the NDIS Practice Standards.
Who does the audit
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission doesn’t carry out registration audits itself. It relies on Approved Quality Auditors: independent organisations accredited by JAS-ANZ and approved by the Commission. Global Compliance Certification (GCC) is one of them. More than 5,000 NDIS providers trust us with their audits.
Two types of audit
The type of audit depends on the supports a provider delivers.
- Verification audits cover lower-risk supports. They are a desktop review of things like staff qualifications, worker screening, insurance and key policies.
- Certification audits cover higher-risk or more complex supports, such as supported independent living, behaviour support and early childhood supports. They include an onsite visit where auditors review records, interview staff and see how supports are delivered.
What auditors look at
In a certification audit, auditors check how the provider:
- respects your rights, privacy and choices
- manages risks, incidents and complaints
- plans supports with you and puts service agreements in place
- provides a safe environment, including managing medication where it applies
Auditors may also ask to speak with participants about their experience. If you’re asked, it’s your choice whether to take part.
How often audits happen
Registration usually lasts three years, and providers must pass a new audit before it ends. Providers delivering higher-risk supports also have a midterm audit about 18 months in.
How to check a provider
The NDIS Commission’s online Provider Register shows whether a provider is registered and which supports it is registered for: ndiscommission.gov.au/provider-registration/find-registered-provider. Unregistered providers don’t go through this audit, although they must still follow the NDIS Code of Conduct.
If you run an NDIS business
If you’re a provider, or planning to become one, come and see us at booth G2 at the Melbourne Disability Expo on 20 and 21 November. We can explain which audit applies to your services, how long the process takes and what the audit involves. You can also visit gccertification.com/ndis or call 1800 444 800.