Getting registered as an NDIS provider is a big step, but staying registered? That’s where the ongoing effort really comes in. To keep delivering services under the NDIS, providers need to meet regular compliance checks, including something called a Mid-Term Audit and eventually, Re-Certification. These aren’t just tick-box exercises, they’re about making sure your services stay safe, high-quality, and aligned with the expectations of the NDIS Practice Standards.
So, let’s break down what each of these involves, and how you can be ready when the time comes.
What Exactly Is the Mid-Term Audit?
If you’re a certified NDIS provider (usually those offering more complex or higher-risk supports), you’ll need to go through a Mid-Term Audit about halfway through your three-year registration period, typically at the 18-month mark.
Now, don’t panic, it’s not as full-on as your initial certification audit. Think of it more like a check-in. Auditors want to see that you’re still doing the right things and keeping up with the standards.
What they’ll usually look at:
- How you’re handling complaints and incidents
- Whether your staff have the right checks and training
- How you manage risks and continuous improvement
- What feedback you’ve received from participants and how you’ve responded
Depending on the services you offer, this might be a desktop audit (all done remotely) or may involve a site visit. Either way, it’s best to be audit-ready all the time, because they’ll be looking at how you’ve been operating, not just what you prepare right before.
Re-Certification: What’s Involved?
At the end of your three-year certification, it’s time to renew your registration, and that means going through a Re-Certification Audit.
This one’s more like the original full audit you did when you first registered. Auditors will want to review everything—your policies, your practices, your team, your systems – basically, the whole picture of how your organisation runs and how well it aligns with the NDIS Practice Standards.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A full documentation review
- Interviews with staff and possibly participants
- On-site visits (especially if you deliver higher-risk supports)
- Checks on how you’ve improved since your last audit
It’s a good idea to kick off the re-certification process at least six months before your current registration expires. That way, you won’t run into any last-minute issues or risk a break in your registration.
What Happens if You Miss It or Aren’t Compliant?
Unfortunately, missing a mid-term audit or failing your re-certification can have serious consequences. The NDIS Commission could suspend your registration, and you wouldn’t be able to deliver or claim for NDIS-funded services.
That’s not a situation any provider wants to be in, especially when it can be avoided with the right preparation and support.
How to Stay Prepared Without the Stress
Here are a few practical things you can do to stay on top of your compliance game:
- Keep Everything Up to Date
Make sure your incident reports, complaints records, staff files, and participant notes are always current. - Review and Reflect Regularly
Schedule internal reviews. Don’t wait for the audit to find out something’s not working. - Train Your Team
Everyone should understand the NDIS Practice Standards and their role in meeting them. Ongoing training helps. - Get Help When You Need It
Sometimes, bringing in a provider consultant is the easiest way to get ready. We can help you identify gaps, update policies, and take the pressure off before the audit even starts.
Final Thoughts
Mid-term audits and re-certification might sound formal, and they are. But they’re also opportunities to show the quality and care you deliver every day. With the right systems in place (and a little guidance if you need it), these audits can be a smooth part of your provider journey.
Need help getting Mid-Term Audit / NDIS Re-certification in Sydney or just want to make sure everything’s on track?
Reach out to us today for a consultation on how we can help you in your mid-term audit / NDIS re-certification preparation.
Phone: 1300 1200 94
Email: ndis@providersconsultant.com.au