NDIS Compliance & Regulatory Updates: Key Changes for Providers

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) continues to evolve, and staying informed about its latest compliance and regulatory changes is crucial for all providers. Whether you're a new service operator, an NDIS consultant, or an established business preparing for audit, knowing what's ahead in 2025 can help you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and continue to offer safe, high-quality services to participants.

Key Changes for Providers in 2025

As the NDIS grows, so does the need for providers to show strong governance, operational maturity, and a deep understanding of compliance requirements. This guide will walk you through recent developments, regulatory priorities, and practical steps you can take to strengthen your operations and align with the NDIS Commission’s expectations.

The NDIS Commission’s 2025 Priorities

At the beginning of 2025, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission reaffirmed its strong commitment to enforcing a human-rights-based approach to disability support services. This means the NDIS is not just about delivering services—it's about ensuring those services uphold the dignity, choice, and safety of every participant.

NDIS Commissioner Tracy Mackey and Associate Commissioner Natalie Wade are leading these efforts. In recent meetings with Minister for the NDIS, the Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP and Minister Assisting the NDIS Minister, the Hon. Dr Anne Aly MP, key goals were discussed: stronger compliance, better support systems, and a renewed focus on participant rights.

These conversations reinforce a broader shift towards tightening compliance across the sector, with the NDIS Commission working closely with NDIS internal auditors, NDIS consultants, and approved quality auditors to make sure providers are meeting their obligations.

Why NDIS Compliance Matters More Than Ever

For all NDIS-registered providers, being compliant is no longer just about ticking a few boxes. It's about proving that your business operates ethically, professionally, and in line with national standards. The consequences of non-compliance can be severe—not only for participants but also for the sustainability of your business.

One recent example of this is the Federal Court’s decision to impose a $1.9 million penalty on Valmar Support Services, a registered NDIS provider. The court found that the provider failed to offer safe and appropriate care, contributing to the tragic death of a participant.

This decision sends a clear message: providers must take their legal and ethical responsibilities seriously. Regular audits, staff training, clear policies, and strong leadership are not optional—they're essential.

To stay ahead, many providers are now investing in services like:

• Internal audits conducted by trained professionals.
  
• NDIS auditor training to upskill staff and management.
  
• Consulting services from experienced NDIS consultants who specialise in quality, risk, and governance.
  
  

You can find more about internal audits and training options here: NDIS Auditor Training and Internal Audits.

What’s Changing in 2025: Platform Providers & Mandatory Registration

A key upcoming change in 2025 is the mandatory registration of Platform Providers. These are businesses that connect participants with independent workers through digital platforms. Until now, some of these businesses have operated without full NDIS registration, but that is about to change.

The NDIS Commission has now concluded its public consultation on this issue. You can view the full announcement here.

The change is expected to increase transparency, protect participant safety, and ensure that all providers—regardless of their delivery method—meet the same high standards.

If you're operating through a digital platform and aren’t yet registered, now is the time to act. This process may include:

• Reviewing your service delivery model.
• Performing a gap analysis to understand where you currently fall short of compliance.
• Working with an NDIS consultant to create a registration and audit-readiness strategy.
  
  

Not sure how to apply for NDIS registration? You can get step-by-step help here: NDIS Business Registration Support.

Strengthening Your Compliance Framework

As regulations tighten, so must your approach to compliance. That means not only understanding the NDIS Practice Standards but also showing how your business consistently applies them. You can read the official standards here.

Here are key areas that all providers should focus on in 2025:

1. Regular Internal Audits

Internal audits help you identify risks, gaps, and areas of improvement before a formal audit is conducted. Working with a certified NDIS internal auditor ensures these reviews are thorough and aligned with current standards.

If you're unsure where to begin, Posity Online offers detailed audit services: Learn more about internal audits.

2. Approved Quality Audits

All NDIS providers undergoing verification or certification need to be assessed by NDIS approved quality auditors. These external audits are mandatory and ensure that your operations meet national requirements.

Whether you're undergoing your initial audit or a mid-term review, it’s essential to be prepared. Many providers choose to work with a NDIS consultant who can guide them through the audit process, help prepare documentation, and even simulate audit interviews to ensure your team is ready.

3. NDIS Auditor Training for Staff

Understanding how audits work can empower your leadership team and frontline staff. Enrolling in NDIS auditor training helps your team better understand what auditors look for, how to manage risk, and how to implement continuous improvement.

You can access trusted training here: NDIS Auditor Training – Posity Online.

Other Regulatory Focus Areas in 2025

The NDIS Commission has announced several additional focus areas for the year ahead:

Reportable Incidents and Safety Reporting

Providers are expected to improve how they report and respond to serious incidents. This includes any abuse, neglect, or serious injury that affects participants. Timely and accurate reporting is not only a legal duty—it’s also a measure of your organisation’s safety culture.

Workforce Safety and Reducing Violence

NDIS workers often face complex, high-risk situations. New regulations are focusing on making support work safer and reducing incidents of violence or injury. Providers are expected to have proper risk controls, staff training, and incident management procedures in place.

If you haven’t yet reviewed your workplace safety strategy, now is the time. Here’s a resource to help: Risk Management Services.

Positive Behaviour Support Framework Updates

The NDIS is also reviewing its approach to behaviour support. Providers delivering behaviour management services must ensure their practices align with the updated Positive Behaviour Support Capability Framework. This includes training, supervision, and behaviour support planning that respects participant rights.

How to Protect Your Business and Meet Your Obligations

If you’re a provider, staying compliant may feel overwhelming—but with the right tools, it's entirely manageable. Here's what we recommend:

• Use professional templates and checklists aligned with the NDIS Practice Standards.
• Conduct a gap analysis to identify weak points in your compliance system.
• Regularly train your team through NDIS auditor training and staff development sessions.
• Hire a qualified NDIS consultant to support you with audits, registration, and business strategy.
• Stay updated with resources such as newsletters, Commission alerts, and detailed guides.
  
  

Here’s where you can find some of the best support resources for your business:

• NDIS Registration Guides – Posity Online
• Gap Analysis & Internal Audit Tools
• NDIS Policy and Procedure Templates
• Business Coaching & Marketing Help
  
  

Bottomline: Stay Ahead with Expert Support

As the NDIS grows, so does the responsibility placed on providers to deliver safe, accountable, and high-quality services. The risks of non-compliance are real—but so are the rewards of doing things right.

By staying updated on regulatory changes, conducting regular audits, and investing in professional training, your business can grow with confidence. Whether you're figuring out how to apply for NDIS registration, preparing for your next audit, or needing help with risk management, remember that you're not alone.

Reach out to Posity Online for personalised support from experienced consultants, auditors, and compliance specialists: Contact Posity Online