The Australian Government announced the progression of a new registration system for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The proposed changes are based on advice from the NDIS Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce. Led by human rights lawyer Natalie Wade, the Taskforce made 11 recommendations and 10 actions. These recommendations and actions are aimed at strengthening provider and worker registration. The changes include mandatory registration for platform providers, support coordinators, and Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers to enhance participant safeguards. To clarify, Platform providers connect participants with workers to deliver NDIS supports.
Registration of NDIS providers and coordinators, as recommended by the Taskforce, is expected to strengthen safeguards for NDIS participants. The new model will also uphold the rights of participants who self-direct their supports while providing appropriate visibility of these arrangements to the NDIS Commission.
The NDIS Commission is also reviewing the NDIS Rules and developing a prioritization model due to a significant increase in complaints and reportable incidents. In the 2023-24 financial year, the NDIS Commission received just over 29,000 complaints and 82,000 reportable incidents. This represents an 80 per cent and 47 per cent increase respectively on the previous year. Moreover, these numbers are growing every year.
The new Rules will allow for a period of transition to the new mandatory registration arrangements. The government aims to work closely with the disability community throughout the consultation process, supported by a significant budget increase for the NDIS Commission.
The Taskforce’s advice is available at the link below: