What is an NDIS Provider?

An NDIS provider is an organisation or individual that delivers services and supports to NDIS participants, helping them achieve their goals and enhance their quality of life. Many NDIS providers are registered with the NDIS, which means they meet strict quality and safety standards. However, there is also a growing number of unregistered providers and sole traders in the market. While these providers can offer flexibility, they lack the same regulatory oversight, which can pose potential risks.

Registered NDIS Providers

Registered providers meet strict government quality and safety standards and are approved by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. These providers can deliver services to all participants, including those managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). They must adhere to NDIS Practice Standards and are subject to regular audits.

Unregistered NDIS Providers

Unregistered providers haven’t gone through the NDIS registration process. While they may still provide quality services, they aren’t subject to the same regulatory scrutiny. Participants with self-managed or plan-managed plans can engage unregistered providers, offering greater choice and flexibility. However, this also comes with potential risks, such as:

• Lack of accountability for service quality.
• Increased risk of unqualified staff or inadequate care.
• No formal compliance with NDIS Practice Standards.

It’s crucial to carefully evaluate unregistered providers to ensure your safety and wellbeing.

Steps to Find an NDIS Provider

1. Use the NDIS Provider Finder

The NDIS website offers a Provider Finder tool to help you search for registered providers by location and service type. This tool allows you to narrow down options based on your specific needs.

The NDIS website also provides separate directories of registered providers by state or territory, including contact details. However, these directories may not specify the exact areas within a state or territory where services are offered, so it’s best to contact providers directly for clarification.

Visit the NDIS Provider Finder here: NDIS Provider Finder.

2. Ask for NDIS Provider Recommendations

Reach out to your support coordinator, local disability organisations, or other NDIS participants for advice. Digital platforms can also be helpful:

• Facebook Groups: There are many active groups where participants share recommendations and experiences.
• Kinora: An online community of NDIS experts, carers, individuals, and families offering advice and insights.

Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of a provider’s services.

3. Check Online Directories

Several websites provide comprehensive directories of NDIS providers, complete with user reviews and ratings:

• Clickability: Offers free support over the phone or email to help you find local providers. You can also filter searches by age group and access method.
• Disability Support Guide: A nationwide directory with a wealth of information about NDIS services.
• MyCareSpace: A user-friendly search engine for both registered and unregistered providers. You can search by postcode or request assistance.
• Karista: Provides detailed information and pricing for potential providers.
• Care Decisions: Offers a free, personalised report matching NDIS participants with suitable local providers.

4. Use Google Maps

Searching “NDIS providers near me” on Google Maps is a simple and effective way to locate nearby providers. You can also view real user reviews to help you assess each provider.

5. Attend Expo Events

Disability-focused expos are great opportunities to meet providers in person and learn more about their services. Some key events in Melbourne include:

• Source Disability Expo: Fri 11 – Sat 12 Apr 2025.
• ATSA Independent Living Expo: Fri 20 – Sat 21 May 2025.
• Care Expo Melbourne: Fri 15 – Sat 16 Aug 2025.
• Disability Connection Expo: Fri 3 – Sat 4 Oct 2025.
• Melbourne Disability Expo: Fri 21 – Sat 22 Nov 2025.

Search for local events via Eventbrite or Humanitix.

6. Contact Providers Directly

Once you’ve shortlisted potential providers, contact them to discuss your needs, their services, and how they can support your goals. Don’t hesitate to ask about their qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise.

7. Check the NDIS Compliance Register

The NDIS website’s compliance register allows you to check if any compliance actions have been taken against a provider or individual. This is a critical step for ensuring the provider’s credibility.

Explore the compliance register here: NDIS Compliance Register.

8. Compare Providers

Consider factors such as cost, availability, and service approach. Comparing multiple providers will help you find the best fit for your needs.

Professionals Who Can Support You

Support Coordinators

Support coordinators help NDIS participants manage their plans and connect with suitable providers. They can offer tailored recommendations and guide you through the process.

Local Area Coordinators (LACs)

LACs assist with understanding the NDIS, developing plans, and connecting with services. They have extensive knowledge of local providers and can help you find the best match. Learn more: NDIS LACs in Victoria.

Disability Advocacy Services

Advocacy organisations can support you in identifying and selecting providers that meet your unique needs. Discover more: Disability Advocacy Organisations.

Ability Assist: Enhancing Quality of Life for Over 30 Years

Ability Assist is a trusted, fully registered NDIS provider with over 30 years of experience supporting individuals across Melbourne. Our mission is to inspire and enrich lives by enhancing independence, skills, and quality of life.

To learn more about our services, visit our services page or contact us at (03) 9306 1770.