Finding the right NDIS provider can make a huge difference to your independence, confidence, and progress toward your goals. 

With thousands of NDIS providers across Australia — registered and unregistered, large and local — it’s normal to feel unsure where to start. This guide explains what providers do, how they work with your plan, and how to choose support that fits your needs.

What Is an NDIS Provider?

An NDIS provider is a person or organisation that delivers supports funded under your NDIS plan. Providers may offer one service type or a mix, depending on their registration and capabilities.

Common NDIS supports include:

  • Help with daily living (personal care, routines, meal prep)
  • Community participation and social support
  • Supported Independent Living (SIL)
  • Allied health therapies (OT, physio, speech therapy)
  • Support coordination
  • Nursing and complex care (where relevant)

Registered vs Unregistered NDIS Providers

Not all providers are the same. The biggest difference is whether they are registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

Registered providers

  • Approved and audited for safety and quality
  • Must meet strict NDIS Practice Standards
  • Can work with NDIA-managed plans
  • Often preferred for complex supports

Unregistered providers

  • Not audited by the Commission
  • Can still be highly skilled and experienced
  • Can work with self-managed or plan-managed participants
  • Often offer more flexibility in service design

Quick rule:
If your plan is NDIA-managed, you must use registered NDIS providers.
If your plan is self-managed or plan-managed, you can use either.

How Your Plan Management Type Affects Choice

Your funding type changes who you can use:

  1. NDIA-managed
    • NDIA pays providers directly
    • Registered providers only
  2. Plan-managed
    • Your plan manager pays invoices
    • Registered or unregistered providers
  3. Self-managed
    • You pay providers and claim funding back
    • Any provider that fits your needs

If you’re unsure which type you are, check your plan or ask your LAC/support coordinator.

What Should a Good NDIS Provider Offer?

A quality provider should be able to:

  • Deliver supports aligned to your plan categories
  • Provide trained, screened workers
  • Communicate clearly and respectfully
  • Work with you toward your goals
  • Be transparent about pricing and agreements
  • Adjust supports as your needs change
  • Provide inclusive, culturally safe care

10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing an NDIS Provider

When comparing providers, ask:

  1. Are you a registered NDIS provider (if I need one)?
  2. What experience do you have supporting people with my goals/needs?
  3. How do you match me with support workers?
  4. Can I change workers if the fit isn’t right?
  5. What are your availability and response times?
  6. What are your cancellation and notice policies?
  7. How do you involve me in planning supports?
  8. How do you handle feedback or complaints?
  9. Are your costs within NDIS price limits?
  10. How will we measure progress toward my goals?

Signs You’ve Found the Right Provider

You’re likely with a strong provider if they:

  • Listen and co-design support with you
  • Help you build independence, not dependence
  • Are reliable and consistent
  • Communicate proactively
  • Respect your identity, culture, routines, and choices
  • Make changes easy when your situation evolves

How Just Better Care Supports NDIS Participants

Just Better Care focuses on practical, personalised disability supports that fit real life. Depending on your area, support may include:

  • In-home disability support
  • Personal care and daily living assistance
  • Community access and social participation
  • Support coordination (where available)
  • Nursing and complex care
  • Flexible scheduling with local teams

Next step:
If you’d like to talk through your plan and what supports might suit you best, contact your nearest Just Better Care office.

FAQs

Can I change my NDIS provider?

Yes. You can switch at any time, as long as you follow any notice period in your service agreement.

Do I need a service agreement?

It’s strongly recommended. It sets clear expectations for services, costs, cancellations, and responsibilities.

How do I find registered providers near me?

You can search the NDIS Provider Finder or ask your LAC/support coordinator for local options.

What if I don’t like my support worker?

You should feel safe and comfortable. You can request a different worker with any quality provider.