Frequently Asked Questions

Section 1: I am just getting started with my NDIS application.

Select registration groups based on the services and supports you currently provide or intend to offer. Choose carefully after understanding each group’s description. Ensure alignment with the NDIS Practice Standards by selecting only relevant groups. If unsure, consult with an NDIS advisor for assistance in selecting the most suitable registration groups.

If you wish to modify any aspect of your registration post-audit, you may need to reapply through the commission.

Registrations typically last for three years, requiring renewal through an audit to ensure ongoing compliance with NDIS Practice Standards. Additional audits, such as mid-term or provisional audits, may occur based on your registration application. Note that your registration starts from the date the NDIS Commission approves it. This approval process’s speed is determined by the NDIS Commission.

While qualifications aren’t mandatory for NDIS registration, certain registration groups may necessitate specific credentials. After an audit, the Commission may investigate your qualifications as a business and service provider. You can review the NDIS Suitability Assessment Guide for further details [insert document link]

A registered provider meets NDIS Practice Standards and is approved by the NDIS Commission. Unregistered providers can still offer services but lack NDIS approval.

You have up to 60 days to complete the NDIS application once initiated.

During the application process, you’ll provide business information and select NDIS supports, known as registration groups, that you intend to offer. These choices determine the NDIS Practice Standards your organization must meet. You’ll also complete a self-assessment against these standards. Afterward, the NDIS Commission will issue an “Initial Scope of Audit”, outlining registration requirements. This document is required for a quote for the audit cost. You can learn more about the registration process

Begin your registration process by completing an application through the NDIS Commission application portal.

Firstly, know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many clients share similar concerns, which is why we’ve compiled these FAQs. We recommend reading the “getting started – common terms you may encounter” [insert document link] section of the FAQs to familiarize yourself with the terminology. Here’s an overview of the high-level process:

  1. Complete an application to become a registered provider.
  2. Receive an initial scope of audit document outlining the type of audit required by the NDIS Commission based on your services and supports.
  3. Share this initial scope of audit for an initial quote for the audit cost.
  4. Upon agreement, sign the Fee Proposal to proceed. We’ll then notify the NDIS Commission and link your application reference number.
  5. Once you’ve signed with us, we’ll assign an auditor, schedule the audit date, and provide you with a dedicated Client Service Officer for assistance.

Get started with Platinum Certification AQA [insert link].

Please note that NDIS consultants are available to guide you through the entire process and assist with registration and documentation. As an independent audit body, we do not provide consultancy support.

Section 2: I’ve signed with Platinum Certification AQA to perform my audit.

We are more than happy to discuss payment plans. If interested, please ask your consultant.

You can pay through bank transfer using the provided BSB and account number found on your invoice.

It’s the application reference number provided by the NDIS Commission. Learn more [insert link].

It means you have uploaded all required documentation. Quality assessment occurs during the audit.

You can change your business name if maintaining the same ABN. Changing the ABN requires relaunching the application.

It depends. You can support self and plan-managed participants but disclose to your auditor. Provisional audits prohibit providing services.

Interviews are part of Certification Stage 2. An informal meeting with your auditor occurs regardless of audit type.

Scheduling depends on auditor availability and audit complexity. Verifications take 1-5 days; provisionals and certifications take 10-15 days.

Yes, be available all day as the auditor may require clarification at any point.

Yes, it’s mandatory for all personnel. Apply here [insert link].

Depends on verification or certification audit. Verifications are offsite; certifications are a mix of offsite and onsite.

You’ll be assigned an auditor once your audit date is scheduled.

Section 3: I’ve completed my initial audit.

After successfully registering with the NDIS Commission, you’ll receive a certificate of registration specifying its duration, any conditions, and mid-term audit requirements.

The NDIS Commission will notify you of the final decision and outcome. Platinum Certification can advise if they recommend you for certification or not.

No. Only the NDIS Commission can provide certification. Platinum Certification only recommends findings to the Commission, which then reviews and approves the audit, issuing an NDIS Provider number afterward.

For a verification audit, expect the report within 2 weeks. For Provisional or Certification audits, it will be sent within 4 weeks.

If your auditor has sent you a nonconformity corrective action plan, respond accordingly. If you received all conformities, no further action is required after the audit.

This is a separate process conducted by the Commission, independent of Platinum Certification’s involvement. We can only recommend or not recommend certification. Once we submit your audit and evidence, it’s beyond our jurisdiction. The registration process is managed solely by the Commission.

A self-assessment is mandatory for any changes to your modules. It demonstrates your understanding of the added module and must be uploaded to the Commission. Failure to complete self-assessments may prevent submission of your application, as required by the NDIS Commission.

A variation form is necessary when you wish to modify your initial scope declared with the NDIS. This includes changes like registration group, module, service delivery profile, address, or key personnel. Signing the form allows Platinum Certification to demonstrate to the NDIS that these changes were made with your approval.

If non-conformances are identified during the audit, your auditor will discuss the gaps with you and provide a Corrective Action Plan. You’ll outline your intended actions to resolve the non-conformances, which must be returned within seven calendar days. At your follow-up audit, implementation of these actions will be reviewed.

There’s no “pass” or “fail” in NDIS audits. Non-conformances are categorized as major or minor based on risk levels. Major non-conformances require a follow-up audit within three months, while minor ones require a follow-up within 18 months. Your auditor will discuss any identified gaps with you and provide a corrective action plan. You’ll outline your intended actions to resolve the non-conformances, which must be returned within seven calendar days. At the follow-up audit, implementation of these actions will be reviewed.

Audit team contracts are determined based on your audit scope declared during your application with the Commission. Once assigned, if a module is removed during the audit, cost reduction isn’t feasible as resources are already allocated.

Once submitted to the Commission, they conduct their own verification processes. Platinum Certification has no insight into your application’s status after submission. For further information, contact the Commission directly or email registration@ndiscommission.gov.au. Request a call reference number for easier reference in subsequent communications.

The audit report undergoes multiple review stages before being sent out to the Provider and the Commission. Contact your dedicated Audit Team Leader for an update on its status. You can schedule a direct discussion with your Audit Team Leader once assigned to your audit.

Section 4: I need a Mid-Term audit or an Out of Scope audit.

Please contact us directly as the next steps depend on your current stage in the audit process. For example, if you’ve been approved by the NDIS and want to add scope before your mid-term/next audit, or if you’re awaiting approval from the NDIS.

A mid-term audit occurs around the midpoint (18 months) of the 3-year Certification cycle. It monitors changes affecting registered NDIS providers, evaluates procedure effectiveness, and seeks evidence of continuous improvement. Note that the mid-term audit doesn’t apply to providers undergoing Verification. Learn more about the mid-term audit [insert document link].

To add or remove a registration group, complete a change of scope form. Contact your dedicated Client Service Officer for the form, and they will assist you in filling it out. If removing a registration group during the audit, the auditor will handle the form.

During the audit, you’ll be rated against each outcome and indicator using the following scale:

3 – Conformity with elements of best practice

2 – Conformity

1 – Minor non-conformity

0 – Major non-conformity