If you are an NDIS provider or planning to become one you may have heard people talk about the “90 day rule.” However, many providers misunderstand what it really means. Because of this, they often miss deadlines, delay registration, or lose valuable time.
So, let’s break it down clearly.
The 90 day rule mainly refers to a time limit set by the NDIS Commission for responding to certain requests, especially during registration, renewal, and compliance processes. In simple words, when the NDIS Commission asks you for more information, you usually have 90 days to respond.
If you do not respond properly within that time, your application or approval process may be cancelled or closed.
why the 90 day rule nDIS exists
First of all, the NDIS Commission wants to keep the system fair and organised. Therefore, they cannot leave applications open forever.
The 90 day rule:
• Keeps applications moving
• Stops long delays
• Encourages providers to act seriously
• Helps the Commission manage workloads
Because of this, once they send you a request, the clock starts ticking.
When Does the 90 Day Rule NDIS Apply?
The 90 day rule usually applies in situations like:
1. During NDIS Registration – 90 day rule
When you apply to become an NDIS provider, the Commission may ask for:
• Missing documents
• Policy updates
• Evidence of systems
• Audit-related information
At that point, you normally get up to 90 days to provide what they asked for.
However, if you fail to respond in time, your application can be closed.
2. During Registration Renewal or Recertification – 90 day rule
Similarly, when your registration is due to expire, you must complete:
• Audit booking
• Audit outcome submission
• Evidence uploads
• Any extra information requested
If the Commission asks for corrections or more details, the 90 day response window applies again.
So, delaying your audit or documents can put your registration at risk.
3. After Audit Findings under the 90 day rule
Sometimes, auditors raise:
• Non-conformities
• Conditions
• Required improvements
In many cases, the Commission will give you a set time to fix these often linked to the 90 day timeframe.
Therefore, you must act fast and fix issues properly.
If you are still preparing to apply, our NDIS provider registration support page explains the full step-by-step process.
What Happens If You Miss the 90 Days rule NDIS?
If you miss the 90 day deadline:
• Your application may be closed
• You may need to start again
• Your registration may lapse
• Your services may have to stop
• Your business can lose income
So clearly, ignoring the 90 day rule is risky.
Common Mistakes with the 90 day rule NDIS
Unfortunately, many providers struggle because they:
• Wait too long to book audits
• Upload incomplete documents
• Misunderstand what is required
• Ignore emails from the Commission
• Think extensions are automatic
However, extensions are not guaranteed. You must request them early and give strong reasons.
How to Stay Safe with the 90 Day Rule NDIS
Here’s how you can protect your registration:
1. Track All Emails
Always check emails from:
• NDIS Commission
• Auditors
• Registration portal
Because deadlines usually start from the date they contact you.
2. Start Immediately
As soon as you get a request:
• Read it carefully
• List what is needed
• Assign tasks
• Set internal deadlines
That way, you are not rushing at the end.
3. Book Audits Early
For new registrations or renewals:
• Book your audit early
• Prepare documents before the audit
• Fix issues quickly after audit
This saves you from last-minute panic.
4. Ask for Help Early
If you are confused:
• Talk to a compliance consultant
• Talk to your auditor
• Ask the Commission
Because guessing often leads to mistakes.
Is the 90 Day Rule Always Exactly 90 Days?
Not always.
Sometimes:
• The Commission sets shorter deadlines
• The auditor sets timelines
• Specific notices have their own dates
So, never assume you always have 90 days. Always read the actual deadline given in the email or notice.
Final Thoughts
The 90 day rule is not just a formality. Instead, it is a serious deadline that can affect your entire business.
Therefore:
• Read all NDIS emails carefully
• Act fast when asked for information
• Track your deadlines
• Get support if needed
Because in the NDIS system, time matters and missing a deadline can cost you far more than you expect.
According to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission registration requirements, providers must respond to information requests within the timeframes set by the Commission.