FAQs for Existing NDIS Providers
August 1, 2025
On a regular basis, Provider+ supports several providers who have either just become registered or are undergoing a renewal of their registration. During these stages of a provider’s NDIS journey, we have captured several of the most commonly asked questions that existing providers are seeking support with.
This blog runs through those most commonly asked questions with supporting answers to assist existing providers for what to expect as they embark on their Registered Provider journey.
How can I stay audit-ready all the time?
Compliance isn’t just a tick box to pass an audit. Great providers embed it into their everyday operations - assigned responsibilities, ongoing monitoring and updating of systems, regular staff training, maintaining up to date records, identifying areas for improvement and then actioning these. That’s how you stay audit-ready, all the time.
I’ve got a mid-term audit coming up. What should I focus on?
The mid-term audit will check that your NDIS services continue to meet quality and compliance standards for your ongoing registration. If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to revisit your last audit report, review any incidents or complaints, complete your internal audits, check your participant and worker files and make sure you demonstrate continuous improvement.
I want to add new services to my registration and what does that involve?
You will need to submit an Application for Variation of Registration form to the NDIS Commission.
Depending on the changes, you may be required to undergo a scope extension audit. You may also need updated policies and procedures to demonstrate that you can deliver the additional new services/registration groups in line with the Practice Standards. Our team can support you with this.
My business has changed — do I need to notify the Commission?
Yes, significant changes and events, such as changes to key personnel, legal entity structure, ownership, or changes to services and supports must be reported through the NDIS Commission Portal as soon as possible. Failing to notify the Commission can result in compliance action. It is important to understand what qualifies as a notifiable change and have a process in place to report.
When should I start preparing for my renewal audit?
As a registered provider you must commence your renewal application within 6 months of your expiry date. There is then an expectation that your registration renewal audit is conducted around this timeframe. Whilst you are going through the registration renewal process, your current registration will remain in place. Remember to stay audit-ready all the time to ensure minimal disruptions to your daily operations.
I’m finding the compliance workload overwhelming. Is that normal?
Yes, it’s a common challenge. Establishing clear processes and knowing when to seek practical advice can ease the burden and keep compliance manageable. Part of why Provider+ exists, is to alleviate some of this from your shoulders and let you do what you do best - care for your participants.
Do I need to use the same Auditing body that I used for my last audit?
No, for any upcoming audits such as Midterm audits or Renewals, you can choose any Auditing organisation of your choice.
What is a Midterm Audit?
The mid-term audit is a requirement for certified providers that are registered to provide higher risk and more complex support. It occurs mid registration cycle and must be commenced within 12-18 months from the date of registration.
The mid-term audit will assess that a provider has met, and is meeting, the requirements of the Audit Scope for continued registration. The mid-term audit will be conducted onsite, unless the criteria for a remote audit has been met.
What is a Recertification/Renewal Audit?
A Recertification is an audit that is conducted as a Stage 1 and Stage 2 audit, following 3years of becoming a Registered NDIS Provider.
The audit is conducted by having a Stage 1 audit as a remote desktop audit, and a Stage 2 onsite audit.
A renewal application via PRODA must also be submitted to receive an updated Scope of Audit by which you will be assessed against.
Can I add or remove registration groups before my audit cycle?
Yes you can! This is known as a Registration Variation by which a form request is made by a provider intending to either decrease or increase their current scope.
Note: this may trigger for an Out-of-Cycle audit to occur.
I need to conduct an Internal Audit. How do I complete this?
Using your Internal Audit Schedule and Register, start reviewing the major sections of your documents including, governance, risk management, participant files, complaints and incident management.
Provider+ also offers a Health Check service acting as your Internal Audit by an external provider to help you get on the right track of what you should be reviewing.
If you would like more information regarding this service, please reach out to vip@providerplus.com.au.
