The Albanese Government is advancing significant reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) by introducing a new registration system for providers. This move aims to improve support for participants by ensuring stronger regulation of NDIS providers and workers.
In February 2024, the NDIS Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce was established and charged with delivering independent advice on the design and implementation of a new, risk-based regulatory model as part of the NDIS Review.
After thorough consultations, the Taskforce made 11 key recommendations, along with 10 actionable steps. These changes cover the registration of providers and workers, with some measures requiring immediate implementation, while others will be developed in close consultation with the disability community.
What NDIS Providers Need to Know: Key Changes from the New Registration System
The Albanese Government is introducing a new registration system for NDIS providers to enhance participant safety and service quality. Here’s what providers can expect:
Key Changes for Providers:
- Mandatory Registration for Specific Providers:
- Platform providers, support coordinators, and Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers will be required to register with the NDIS.
- New Regulatory Model:
- A risk-based regulatory system will be implemented to better monitor and regulate providers and workers.
- Rule Changes Coming in October 2024:
- The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission will start consultations to update registration rules for support coordinators, platform providers, and SIL providers.
- Gradual Implementation:
- There will be a transition period to help providers adjust to the new mandatory registration requirements.
- Ongoing Consultation:
- The government will consult with the disability community to shape the final design of the new regulatory model, including NDIS Practice Standards for SIL providers.
- Self-Directed Supports:
- Initial consultations will also focus on participants who self-direct their supports and how they will be defined under the new registration system.
- Increased Oversight:
- The NDIS Commission will implement a prioritisation model to handle the growing number of complaints and reportable incidents, ensuring better oversight of provider practices.
Providers should prepare for these changes by staying informed and participating in upcoming consultations. The goal is to enhance service quality, participant safety, and provider accountability.
Additionally, there are various NDIS consultants nationwide who can assist with registration. When selecting a consultant, ensure they have the relevant experience and expertise.
Engels Floyd Quality Consulting have decades of experience in the disability and quality sectors. They are the only consultancy to have trained all NDIS auditors on behalf of the Commission, ensuring an in-depth understanding of registration and audit requirements. Engels Floyd will collaborate with you to ensure your systems, documentation, and training are fully prepared for the audit. They also offer preparatory audits to identify any potential non conformities ahead of your formal audit. With lived experience of disability and a reputation for integrity, they offer national support and a complimentary consultation to discuss your questions.
Feel free to reach out to them at info@engelsfloyd.com or call 1300 790 194 for more information.
For more details, the Taskforce’s full advice can be found on the Department of Social Services website: https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers-standards-and-quality-assurance/ndis-provider-and-worker-registration-taskforce
We will continue to keep you updated as we hear more.
👉🏼 Stay tuned!
Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.
Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector. She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of individuals facing similar challenges.
