Registering an NDIS provider: a business story and current checks
Becoming a registered NDIS business: Where do you start?
By Amanda Pavia · Originally published 23 May 2021
Original article
Amanda Pavia is the founder and director of Watching Over Wilbur, a registered NDIS business that provides pet sitting, dog grooming and dog walking services. Please note that this guide is specific to Victoria, as the NDIS rolls out to further areas. This post has been updated to reflect recent changes made by the NDIA.
[Clickability update, September 2026: The current excluded-supports list covers ordinary pet costs and pet boarding or grooming for animals that are not NDIS-funded assistance animals, and separately excludes animal therapy. This business story is not current approval for those purchases. Check the current exclusions.]
Becoming an NDIS provider was definitely not on my radar as something that would help expand my business. But, with a growing number of participants receiving funds as part of their NDIS plans and the increase in demand for NDIS businesses, I've been able to grow my offering and provide greater value to others.
How I became an NDIS service provider
Being new to my area, I was doing some advertising and dropping off business flyers. One of these fell into the hands of a lovely woman whose daughter has a disability and who also LOVES dogs. The mother approached me and enquired about whether I would go on some walks with one of my dogs and her daughter, giving her the chance to have a friendship with a dog and a fun way to get regular exercise.
This amazing opportunity, to provide greater service to others in a different way, was very exciting! I jumped at the chance and of course took the new client.
This is where registering an NDIS business as a service provider came in. The family were under the NDIS and in order for me to work for them, and for it to be funded by the government, I needed to work out how to become a registered disability service provider.
So, I began doing some research and it took me some time to work it all out. I figured a little dot point, step-by-step guide would be of some value right now!
How to become an NDIS provider
After you've explored your NDIS business opportunities and decided what services you can offer, you'll need to follow these steps to set-up your business.
1. Figure out if you are suitable to become an NDIS provider
Call the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544 or visit its website to check your eligibility.
Confirm which services you'll provide. Look at the NDIS pricing guide to learn more.
Check your in-house complaints and incident management system - this is a biggie.
Get your Australian Business Number (ABN) ready.
[Clickability update, September 2026: Current registered-provider screening requirements concern key personnel and workers in risk-assessed roles. Registered sole traders are both key personnel and workers in a risk-assessed role. Read the current screening requirements.]
Once you have done this, and you know that your NDIS business is eligible, you can move on.
2. Complete the online application form
Next, you need to complete the online application form. You'll need to provide your contact details and details about how your business works. Then, choose your registration groups (the services you'll offer, such as support work) and complete a self-assessment against the NDIS Practice Standards. You've got 60 days to do it.
[Clickability update, September 2026: The 60 days concerns completing an application after starting it, not a guaranteed registration decision. The Commission then assesses the audit recommendation and suitability. Read the current application steps.]
3. Undergo an audit
After submitting your online application, the NDIS Commission will email you whether you need a 'verification' or 'certification' audit.
A 'verification' audit is for all disability service providers delivering lower risk or less complex services. A 'certification' audit is for high risk, complex services and supports.
4. Wait for the NDIS Commission to assess your application
The NDIS Commission will assess your application and review the audit outcomes. Successful applicants will receive a certificate of registration detailing the services and supports your business will provide.
If your application is unsuccessful, you can request a review from the NDIS Commission.
5. Advertise you NDIS business
If you've made it here, congrats! You've officially started your journey as a disability service provider. Now you need to get the word out there and start promoting your business.
To do this, I recommend you join Clickability, Australia's largest database of NDIS registered and non-registered providers. It's the go-to place for participants and Support Coordinators who are looking for disability support services.
Remember to ask your participants to leave a review of your services so others are able to find you and see the great work you do.
Why becoming an NDIS provider was right for me
I hope that this step-by-step guide on how to become a registered NDIS provider will be of value to some of you; I kind of wish I had this! The NDIS website does have a ton of information, although if you have no idea what you are doing, like I didn’t, it can be difficult to know where to look.
It has been a fulfilling new experience for not only me, but my fur child, Alfie, the Golden Retriever. Whenever we go over for our walks, he knows where we are and gets so excited that he practically pulls my arm off to get to the front door. Their daughter is just as excited to see him and her face always lights up.
If you are wondering whether or not to start an NDIS business, I suggest to just dive in. Give it your best shot and making someone’s day will most likely become a regular thing for you.
Clickability editorial update: September 2026
How providers can use this story without copying its old service assumptions
Start with the exact support you intend to deliver and the registration groups it falls under. Check the applicable standards, screening and audit requirements before spending on an application or advertising an NDIS-funded service.
Keep qualification, registration and funding claims separate in your profile. The original business experience explains one person’s motivation; your current obligations must be checked against today’s rules. Use the Commission’s application guidance.
What participants can check when a business says it is registered
Confirm the provider’s current registration and relevant service, then check whether the actual purchase fits your plan and support rules. Registration does not turn an ordinary pet service into an eligible NDIS support.
Ask for a written description of the work and cost before agreeing. If the activity involves community participation, distinguish the participant’s disability support from ordinary pet expenses.
Questions readers ask
Does registration mean every service a business sells is NDIS-funded?
No. The particular purchase still has to satisfy the support rules and the participant’s plan. Official guidance
Does submitting the form guarantee approval within 60 days?
No. The application-completion limit is separate from the Commission’s assessment and decision. Official guidance
Find providers for the support your plan actually funds
Describe your support needs through Clickability. Compare profiles, ratings and reviews, then confirm the service, costs and registration requirements before starting.
