The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has transformed the way support services are delivered across Australia. As part of this transformation, participants now have more choice and control—including the option to use either registered or unregistered NDIS providers.
But what exactly are NDIS unregistered providers? Are they safe to use? And why do many participants choose them over registered ones?
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about unregistered NDIS providers—so you can make confident, informed decisions about your support services.
What Is an NDIS Unregistered Provider?
An NDIS unregistered provider is a business or individual that offers NDIS-related services or supports but has not gone through the formal registration process with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Unlike registered providers, they’re not officially approved or audited by the Commission. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they are unqualified or unsafe—it simply means they operate independently from the official NDIS provider network.
What Types of Services Can Unregistered Providers Offer?
Unregistered providers can offer a wide range of services, including:
- Personal care
- Cleaning or gardening
- Allied health support (e.g. physiotherapy, occupational therapy)
- Community access and social support
- Supported independent living (SIL)
- Plan management services
The key difference lies in how the participant manages their NDIS funds—which we’ll cover next.
Who Can Use NDIS Unregistered Providers?
Whether or not you can hire unregistered providers depends on how your NDIS plan is managed:
- Self-Managed Participants: You can freely choose between registered and unregistered providers.
- Plan-Managed Participants: You can also use unregistered providers, as long as your plan manager agrees and invoices are compliant.
- NDIA-Managed Participants: You can only use NDIS registered providers.
If you’re self-managed or plan-managed, the choice is yours—and that opens up a broader range of support options.
Why Do Participants Choose Unregistered Providers?
There are several reasons why many NDIS participants opt for unregistered providers:
1. More Options and Availability
Some registered providers may have long waitlists or limited service areas. Unregistered providers often offer faster access, more flexible scheduling, or are located in smaller communities where registered providers are scarce.
2. Personal Preference
Participants may already know and trust someone who provides care or services but who isn’t NDIS registered. Building a relationship with a familiar carer or therapist can enhance the quality of support.
3. Cultural or Language Alignment
Unregistered providers may better understand the participant’s cultural background, language, or specific needs—leading to more personalized and meaningful support.
4. Lower Cost
In some cases, unregistered providers may charge less than registered providers—stretching your NDIS budget further.
Are NDIS Unregistered Providers Safe?
This is a common concern—and a valid one.
While unregistered providers are not audited by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, they are still subject to general laws regarding worker safety, client rights, and service quality. However, since there is no direct oversight, participants must take extra steps to ensure the provider is trustworthy.
Here’s what you can do:
- Request police checks or Working with Children/Vulnerable People clearances
- Ask for insurance details (like public liability)
- Check qualifications or certifications for services like allied health
- Read reviews or ask for client references
- Use written service agreements to clarify terms, pricing, and responsibilities
Risks to Consider
Using unregistered providers comes with a few risks:
- Limited recourse: If something goes wrong, you may have fewer options for formal complaints or investigations.
- Lack of accountability: No external auditing or compliance checks by the NDIS Commission.
- Insurance gaps: Not all unregistered providers carry adequate insurance.
That said, thousands of Australians safely use unregistered providers every day—especially those who take the time to vet and monitor the services they receive.
Final Thoughts
NDIS unregistered providers can be a great option for many participants—especially those who want greater control, faster service, and more personalized care. However, they also require a bit more due diligence and personal responsibility.
If you’re self-managed or plan-managed, you can explore unregistered options confidently—as long as you do your research, stay informed, and use clear service agreements.
Need help finding a reliable NDIS unregistered provider?
Start with local recommendations, online reviews, or talk to your support coordinator or plan manager. The right provider can make all the difference in your journey toward independence and well-being. Managing your NDIS plan can be complex, but with Axial Plan Management, we make it simple.
