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What you need to know about NDIS Audits

All providers undergo an audit against the NDIS Practice Standards when they apply for or renew registration with the NDIS Commission. This is conducted by an independent approved quality auditor who will assess the services and support your business offers.

Non Conformities

There is no such thing as "passing" an audit. Auditors highlight major or minor ‘non-conformities’ based on a variety of factors, including: 

  • Self-evaluation completed in the NDIS portal 

  • Documentation provided by the provider 

  • Observance of the NDIS Practice Standards 

  • Identification of registration classes

In the case of verification audits, auditors can then proceed to stage 2 of their operation, an on-site inspection, armed with the necessary information. 

Ratings range from 0 to 3, with 3 indicating "Best Practices Implemented" and 0 indicating '“Requires urgent work”.

What happens if my business ‘fails’ an NDIS audit? 

NDIS audits are not graded on a scale of one to ten. Major non-conformances need to be corrected within three months of the audit. Any minor non-conformances must be addressed within 12 months of the audit. 

If you are unable to resolve the issues, or if the auditors' recommendation to the NDIS Commission is not to approve certification or verification, the auditors will discuss this with you, as well as the implications to your registration. 

Can your business get assistance with NDIS audits? 

NDIS providers are allowed to receive assistance in preparing and conducting audits. It's helpful to have an expert on your side. Professional preparation results in less stress and fewer non-conformities. 

Centro QMS assists providers in preparing and conducting audits. We've assisted both large and small businesses. We can review your policies, conduct internal audits, and provide on-site support during a Stage 2 Certification Audit. Even better, we believe in skill transfer – building the confidence in teams to conduct these in the future. We collaborate with you, explaining processes and coaching staff so that you are better prepared for the next audit cycle. 

Your auditors will be extremely helpful, but there is a limit to what they can do. They are unable to provide advice to the clients they audit. It would constitute a conflict of interest. Auditing firms rely on us to assist providers in resolving issues discovered during audits. Learn more about Centro PROFESSIONAL and access all the content, resources, and advanced features to manage your audit process.


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