Understanding the NDIS domain may be overwhelming, particularly when determining whether to be a registered or unregistered service provider. It is a broad decision for many organisations and professionals who are dealing with disability support services in terms of business adaptation, clients’ accessibility, and compliance with the new requirements. Both choices are not beneficial for your NDIS business and have implications for compliance and potential target customers. However, VCCG provides NDIS consulting, such as NDIS internal audits, mid-term audits, and renewals for provider registration, so that the providers can run smoothly. Below, we weigh the advantages and disadvantages of having a registered and unregistered provider status to assist you in making your decision.
What’s the Difference Between Registered and Unregistered NDIS Providers?
Registered NDIS Providers are supposed to comply with NDIS Practice Standards when undergoing a strict internal audit within the NIDS. It allows them to adjust all participants under the NDIS, even those whose plans are managed under the NDIA. On the other hand, an unregistered Provider is not bound by NDIS Commission standards; however, it can only accommodate self-managed participants. Pros of Being a Registered NDIS Provider
1. Broader Client Base and Market Access
- Registered providers can assist participants with NDIA-managed plans, self-managed clients, and plan-managed participants.
- Additionally, the more extended their reach of clients are, the bigger the potential revenue generation opportunity they will achieve, along with strengthening their hold in the NDIS marketplace.
2. Enhanced Credibility and Trust
- Registration under the NDIS Quality Safeguards Commission will give them credibility, thus raising their chances of attracting clients who want to work with registered providers.
- NDIS internal and mid-term audits are sometimes compulsory for registered providers, showing their commitment to the highest quality standards.
3. Funding and Grant Eligibility
- Many government grants and funding opportunities are only provided for registered providers, which can boost business.
4. Support from NDIS Consulting Services
- Moreover, registered providers usually hire NDIS consultants or an advisor to make the process easier, keep compliance acceptable, and save costs.
Cons of Being a Registered NDIS Provider
1. Higher Compliance and Operational Costs
- The registered provider as to adhere to NDIS Practice Standards among other frequent NDIS internal and mid-term audits. These audits are time-consuming and costly.
- Providers usually try out the cheapest NDIS auditor without compromising quality.
2. Complexity of Administrative Burden
- The registered providers require in-depth documentation, training, and a quality management system.
3. Rigorous NDIS Renewal Process
- The registration renewal process is extensive, requiring internal and NDIS mid-term audits. Hence, many providers benefit from NDIS renewal services to ensure their renewal is seamless.
Pros of Being an Unregistered NDIS Provider
1. Greater Flexibility in Services
- Unregistered providers are not bound by the standards of the NDIS commission and, thus are free in services.
2. Lower Compliance Costs
- Furthermore, by avoiding the registration process, unregistered providers can save on the cost of NDIS auditors and other compliance costs.
3. Appealing to Self-Managed Participants
- Self-managed participants form a significant and growing segment of the NDIS domain. They often appreciate the flexibility unregistered providers offer, especially in customised services.
Cons of Being an Unregistered NDIS Provider
1. Restricted Client Access
- Unregistered providers cannot serve participants with NDIS-managed plans. Therefore, it means limited clients.
2. Limited Access to Regulated Supports
- Unregistered providers cannot offer regulated support, and this could limit their service provision.
3. Reduced Credibility and Marketing Challenges
- Many clients view registration as an indicator of quality. Hence, there is tough competition between the unregistered and registered providers.
Making the Best Choice for Your NDIS Business
However, this depends on your organisation’s goals and resources. Registered providers have more openness in clients and services offered, but they must adhere to compliance, conduct NDIS internal audits, and deal with renewal processes. Unregistered providers have the advantage of more flexibility and a reduced compliance cost face some limitations in clients and scope of services.
As your competent NDIS consultant and compliance partner, VCCG offers you cost-effective internal audit services and ensures that you receive the best NDIS auditor to facilitate compliance management in the best possible way.
Read More: Top 5 Reasons to Invest in NDIS Internal Audits for Your Organisation