Keeping up with NDIS compliance might feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can become second nature. Think of it as keeping your house tidy—a little effort every day makes the big clean-up (or audit) much easier. This checklist will help you stay on top of compliance, ensuring your business runs smoothly and stress-free all year round.
Understand Your Compliance Responsibilities
NDIS compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about delivering quality support to participants while keeping everything above board. Here’s what you need to stay aligned:
- NDIS Code of Conduct: Providers must uphold respect, honesty, integrity, and transparency in their interactions with participants. Essentially, you must treat participants the way you’d like to be treated if you were in their shoes. Learn more about the NDIS Code of Conduct.
- NDIS Practice Standards: These standards guide the way services should be delivered to ensure safety and quality; you can find the most up-to-date version of the standards here.
- Australian Laws & Regulations: Compliance also extends to privacy laws, workplace health and safety, and financial obligations. Many of these laws are similar to what you’d encounter if you ran a business outside of the NDIS, a summary of these legal responsibilities can be found here.
If you’re ever concerned that you’re not meeting all your compliance responsibilities, reach out to EnableUs and we’ll be happy to help you.
Keep Your Documentation Organised
Good record-keeping makes life easier, especially when an audit comes around. Make sure to keep these essentials updated:
- Service Agreements: These should be clear, detailed, and regularly reviewed with participants.
- Invoices and Financial Records: Maintain accurate financial records to ensure smooth transactions. More on invoicing requirements.
- Incident and Complaint Records: Having a solid paper trail shows accountability and professionalism.
Conduct Regular Internal Audits
Think of an internal audit like a rehearsal before the big performance. Checking in regularly helps you catch any issues before an official audit.
- Routine Compliance Checks: Schedule regular reviews to ensure you’re always in line with NDIS standards.
- Staff Training: Keep your team informed and confident about their compliance responsibilities.
- Act on Findings: If an internal review highlights gaps, take action straight away.
Learn more about internal audits here.
Stay Up to Date with NDIS Changes
NDIS rules and pricing structures evolve, so staying informed is key to running a compliant business. This can sometimes be difficult, and it can feel like the NDIS is doing something new every other day, but doing the following can help you stay on top of things:
- Subscribe to NDIS Newsletters: Get updates straight to your inbox. You can subscribe to receive NDIS news here.
- Attend Training and Workshops: Learning from experts helps you stay ahead of any changes.
Keep Communication Open and Honest
A culture of open communication makes compliance easier and fosters trust between you, your team, and participants.
- Engage with Participants: Regularly review their needs and check in on how they’re feeling about your service.
- Encourage Staff Feedback: A supportive team culture means compliance becomes second nature.
Manage Risks Before They Become Problems
A little foresight goes a long way in keeping your business running smoothly.
- Identify Compliance Risks: Regularly assess any areas that might cause compliance headaches down the track.
- Have a Risk Response Plan: If something does go wrong, be ready to act quickly and efficiently.
- Keep Policies Up to Date: Stay ahead of potential issues by refining your internal policies.
Stay on Top of Financial Compliance
Sound financial practices keep your business secure and ensure you’re always compliant.
- Follow NDIS Pricing Arrangements: Charge fairly and accurately to avoid any billing issues. Understand pricing rules.
- Regularly Check Your Books: Stay on top of your financial health with frequent reviews.
Protect Participant Privacy
Participant information is sensitive, so keeping it secure is a top priority.
- Use Secure Storage Systems: Keep data safe from unauthorised access.
- Train Staff on Privacy Policies: Make sure your team understands confidentiality and best practices for handling personal data.
Commit to Continuous Improvement
The best providers don’t just stay compliant—they strive to improve their services over time.
- Seek Feedback: Regular input from participants and staff helps refine your processes.
- Refine Policies and Procedures: Keeping everything up to date ensures you’re always delivering the best possible service. If you identify an area you can improve, do it! There’s no harm in going above and beyond.
EnableUs, Your NDIS Partner
By following these steps, compliance becomes a natural part of how you operate—not just an obligation. With the right systems in place, audits become less daunting, and you can focus on delivering great support. If you need extra guidance, EnableUs is here to help you navigate compliance with confidence.
