You can operate as an unregistered NDIS provider if you support self-managed or plan-managed participants and meet basic compliance requirements.
If you’re planning to work under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is:
“Can I be an unregistered NDIS provider?”
The short answer is yes in some cases.
However, there are important limits, risks, and responsibilities you must understand before choosing this path.
So, let’s break it down clearly and simply.
What Does “Unregistered NDIS Provider” Mean?
An unregistered NDIS provider is a business or individual who delivers certain NDIS-funded supports without being formally registered with the NDIS Commission.
In other words, you can still provide services but only under specific conditions.
Because of this, unregistered providers operate with more flexibility, but also more risk.
Yes, You Can Be an Unregistered NDIS Provider But Only for Some Supports
To clarify, unregistered providers can only support self-managed and plan-managed participants.
You CAN work with:
- Self-managed NDIS participants
- Plan-managed NDIS participants (via a plan manager)
You CANNOT work with:
- NDIA-managed (agency-managed) participants
This distinction is critical. Otherwise, you may breach NDIS rules without realising it.
What Services Can Unregistered NDIS Providers Offer?
Generally speaking, unregistered providers can deliver lower-risk, non-regulated supports.
These often include:
- Assistance with daily activities
- Community participation
- Support coordination (Level 1 or 2)
- Cleaning and domestic assistance
- Transport support
- Social and recreational supports
However, high-risk and regulated supports are not allowed.
If you’re planning to grow beyond basic supports, our NDIS provider registration support service explains when and how to transition from an unregistered NDIS provider to full registration.
Services You CANNOT Offer Without Registration
Even if a participant wants your service, registration is mandatory for certain supports.
For example, you must be registered to deliver:
- Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
- Behaviour Support
- Restrictive practices
- Specialist support coordination (in most cases)
Therefore, if your business plans to grow into these areas, registration becomes unavoidable.
Do Unregistered Providers Need to Follow NDIS Rules?
This is where many providers get confused.
Even though you are unregistered, you are still legally responsible for delivering safe, ethical, and quality supports.
That means you must:
- Follow the NDIS Code of Conduct
- Maintain incident management processes
- Protect participant rights and safety
- Hold appropriate insurance
- Use compliant service agreements
- Keep accurate records
So, while audits may not apply yet, compliance still does.
Pros of Being an Unregistered NDIS Provider
For many new providers, starting unregistered makes sense.
Key benefits include:
- Faster start-up (no audit required)
- Lower upfront costs
- More flexibility in service delivery
- Ability to test your business model
- Suitable for sole traders and small teams
As a result, many providers use this as a stepping stone into registration.
Cons and Risks of Staying Unregistered
On the other hand, there are limitations you must consider.
Common drawbacks:
- You can not work with NDIA-managed participants
- You may lose referrals from support coordinators
- Some plan managers prefer registered providers
- Growth is limited in regulated services
- Higher personal and legal risk if systems are weak
Because of this, remaining unregistered long-term can restrict business growth.
When Should You Consider NDIS Registration?
You should strongly consider registering if:
- You want access to all NDIS participants
- You plan to offer SIL, SDA, or behaviour support
- You’re receiving frequent referral requests
- You want stronger credibility and trust
- You’re preparing for long-term growth
In many cases, registration isn’t about compliance alone it’s about business sustainability.
Can You Start Unregistered and Register Later?
Yes and this is actually very common.
Many successful NDIS providers:
- Start as unregistered
- Build experience, systems, and evidence
- Transition to registration when ready
However, the key is doing it strategically, not reactively.
Final Thoughts: Is Being Unregistered Right for You?
To sum up, you can absolutely be an unregistered NDIS provider but it’s not suitable for everyone.
If you are starting small, offering low-risk supports, and working with self- or plan-managed participants, it can be a smart move.
That said, if you want scale, stability, and access to all participant types, registration is the long-term solution.
Need Help Deciding or Preparing?
At Providers Consultant, we help:
- New providers choose the right starting path
- Unregistered providers prepare for registration
- Registered providers stay audit-ready
Not sure where you fit?
Reach out for clear, practical guidance before mistakes cost you time and money.
Even as an unregistered provider, you must follow the NDIS Code of Conduct, as outlined by the National Disability Insurance Scheme Quality and Safeguards Commission.