Registered versus unregistered NDIS service provider

Find out why registered providers offer NDIS participants assurance and certainty to achieve their goals.

The benefits of working with a registered NDIS provider

There can be a lot to think about when you’re making plans and setting goals to create a rewarding and fulfilling life. From the level of disability support and the type of services you might need, through to whether your NDIS provider is registered or not. So what is the difference between registered and unregistered NDIS providers, and how do you make a choice that’s right for you?

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) asks service providers to register with the NDIS Commission. However, they’re not required to do so and there are many unregistered providers in the market. 

Assurance and certainty

When a provider does choose to register its NDIS funded services, this means they meet the standards set out by the NDIA. They’ve demonstrated that they have the right qualifications and meet a certain standard of quality, safety and experience to deliver services for NDIS participants like yourself. They’re required to follow specific rules and regulations, all of which can offer you assurance and certainty around the services and support you’re receiving. 

On the other hand, while some unregistered NDIS providers may choose to match these standards, they’re not required to do so. As a result, they aren’t answerable to the NDIA and don’t need to undertake audits to show they’re meeting these requirements. They’re also not required to comply with the NDIS Code of Conduct.

The convenience of agency-managed services

At Northcott, as a registered service provider we manage the invoicing and paperwork for you, and this is sometimes referred to as ‘agency-managed’. As your provider, you can access any of our services and the cost of the service will be claimed electronically from your plan. You can also check on the MyPlace portal to see which claims are made against your NDIS funding and keep track of your budget. The NDIA will manage your bookkeeping and the records of your spending so that you don’t have to. 

We also work with plan management companies. If your funds are managed by a plan manager, we’ll work with them to invoice and manage the funds you’ve allocated to us for services, according to your service agreement.

If you choose an unregistered provider, you may need to manage the invoicing, payment, record keeping and claiming yourself. 

Also, depending on your needs, registered providers are able to deliver some services that unregistered providers can’t. These include Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), specialist behaviour support that involves a behaviour support assessment or a behaviour support plan, and supports that involve any restrictive practices.

The highest standards of personalised support 

With more than 90 years of expertise in the disability service industry, at Northcott we take our work of empowering people to reach their potential very seriously. It’s important for us to be a registered NDIS provider because this offers our customers peace of mind, knowing they are in safe, trustworthy hands. 

As a leading disability service provider, our services and supports meet the level of quality and safety stated in the NDIS Practice Standards. Although unregistered providers may meet the same high standards, they may not have experience specific to disability. Because we are a disability service provider, we only provide services to people with a disability. We are also experienced in supporting people with complex and profound disability and medical conditions.

We offer a broad range of services to meet your unique needs. As your situation changes and your needs and goals also evolve, our range of services and level of support can be adapted and personalised to you. 

Allied Health and Clinical Services

Our NDIS therapy services provided by an experienced team of health professionals include:

• Speech therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy
• Positive behavioural support 
• Dietetics for dietary and nutritional advice
• Orthotics and custom footwear

Group Support Services

Build your confidence and skills in a group setting with people who have similar interests and goals to you. Our group support services include:

• Teen and adult recreation 
• Skills 4 Life – Teens
• Life skills for adults
• Short stay and respite
• Work & study skills

Housing and Supported Independent Living

If you want to create a more independent life and are looking for accessible housing, our disability accommodation options include:

• Supported Independent Living and Specialist Supported Living: Live independently but get the daily assistance you need.
• Specialist Supported Living: You’ll have access to specialist nursing staff, along with assistance for your daily needs and specialised transport.

As an NDIS participant, you’re in the driver’s seat and you get to decide who you work with to build the life you want. With so many options to choose from, a registered NDIS provider can offer a sense of security and comfort that you’re getting the service you need. Northcott is proud to be a registered NDIS provider, and we’re committed to delivering the highest levels of personalised support. We can work with you to reach your goals and unleash your potential.

Allied Health and Clinical Services Allied Health and Clinical Services Individual Support Services Housing and Supported Independent Living