Choosing Your Supports: Understanding Registered and Unregistered NDIS Providers
The NDIS is always evolving, and sometimes it can feel hard to keep up with the changes. Recently, there’s been a stronger focus on provider registration and oversight, with mandatory registration introduced for certain higher-risk services such as Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Support Coordination.
These changes affect both registered and unregistered providers. Unregistered providers are now facing greater scrutiny and may eventually be required to register, while registered providers continue to meet stricter, audited standards but benefit from wider access to participants.
With all these changes, it’s more important than ever to understand your options when choosing providers. The good news is that with Plan Management, you have the flexibility to access both registered and unregistered providers — giving you more choice and control. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand your options.
What is an NDIS Provider?
An NDIS provider is any business or individual who delivers a support or service that can be paid for through your NDIS plan. This could include:
Therapists (like physiotherapists or occupational therapists)
Support workers
Cleaners or gardeners
Transport providers
Community activity groups
These providers fall into two categories: Registered or Unregistered.
What are Registered NDIS Providers?
Registered providers are businesses or individuals who have been approved by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This means they meet strict quality and safety standards.
✅ Can be used by participants who are NDIA-Managed, Plan-Managed, or Self-Managed
✅ Often larger organisations or disability-specific providers
✅ Familiar with NDIS requirements and compliance
What are Unregistered NDIS Providers?
Unregistered providers are not signed up with the NDIS Commission and didn’t go through the NDIS Commission registration process, but that doesn’t mean they don’t provide great services.
✅ Can be used if you are Plan-Managed or Self-Managed
✅ Often smaller, local businesses or sole traders
✅ May offer more flexibility, shorter wait times, or different service styles
How Plan Management Expands Your Choice
Here’s where Plan Management makes things simple.
With Pacific Plan Management, you can access both registered and unregistered providers, giving you the flexibility to:
Choose supports that best suit your goals and lifestyle
Find local services that work for you
Have more options if registered providers are booked out or not available in your area
And the best part? We take care of the invoices and make sure claims are processed correctly, so you don’t have to worry about the admin.
Tips for Choosing the Right Provider
Whether registered or unregistered, here are a few things to look for:
Do they understand your needs and goals?
Do they have experience supporting people with disability?
Do you feel comfortable and respected?
Are they clear about their prices and availability?
No matter if a provider is registered or unregistered, they still need to follow the NDIS Code of Conduct and have the right qualifications for the services they deliver. It’s also important that the support you’re purchasing is considered ‘reasonable and necessary’ under the NDIS and is an approved support in your plan.
Both registered and unregistered providers can play an important role in your NDIS journey. With Plan Management, you don’t have to choose one or the other — you get access to the best of both worlds.
How Do I Sign Up to Pacific Plan Management?
Getting started with us is simple:
👉 Register online: https://www.pacificplan.com.au/registration
📧 Email: accounts@pacificplan.com.au
📞 Call: 1800 861 112
Our friendly team is ready to support you every step of the way.