Registered vs Unregistered NDIS Providers – Which One Should You Choose?
July 04, 2025
When navigating the world of NDIS supports, one of the most common questions participants and their families ask is: What’s the difference between registered vs unregistered NDIS providers, and does it really matter? The short answer is yes – and choosing the right provider can have a significant impact on the quality and safety of the services you receive. Here are the key differences between registered and unregistered NDIS providers, what you need to be aware of, and why working with a registered provider like Orana can give you peace of mind.
What is a Registered NDIS Provider?
A registered NDIS provider is an organisation or individual person who has met strict quality and safeguarding requirements set out by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This includes undergoing regular audits, maintaining appropriate insurances, and demonstrating compliance with national standards in areas like participant safety, service delivery, and complaint management. In short, registration is the NDIS Commission’s way of ensuring that providers are accountable, transparent, and held to a consistent standard of care.
What About Unregistered NDIS Providers?
Unregistered NDIS providers are not regulated by the NDIS Commission in the same way. While they may offer some flexibility in pricing or service delivery, they are not required to meet the same rigorous standards as registered providers. This can create potential risks for participants, particularly when it comes to:
- Safeguarding and quality assurance
- Complaint resolution pathways
- Insurance and liability
- Staff training and qualifications
Unregistered providers may still offer services to participants who self-manage or plan-manage their NDIS funding – but it’s essential to do your own due diligence before engaging with them.
Registered vs Unregistered NDIS Providers: What Are the Risks?
When comparing registered vs unregistered NDIS providers, the most important factor to consider is safety. With registered NDIS providers, you have the assurance that the provider:
- Has passed independent quality audits
- Adheres to the NDIS Code of Conduct
- Is answerable to the NDIS Commission for any complaints or breaches
- Employs qualified staff with appropriate checks and training
In contrast, with unregistered NDIS providers, these protections may not be in place. This can leave you vulnerable to inconsistent service quality, limited recourse in the event of a problem, and possible gaps in duty of care.
Why Choose a Registered NDIS Provider Like Orana?
At Orana, we’re proud to be a trusted and long-standing registered NDIS provider supporting South Australians with disability. We understand the importance of reliable, high-quality support – and we’ve built our services around that commitment.
Whether it’s supported independent living, employment opportunities, life skills programs or in-home assistance, our team meets the highest national standards, so you can feel confident and supported at every step. We’ve been delivering person-centred services since 1950, and today, we continue to innovate and advocate for inclusive communities across South Australia.
Choosing a registered provider like Orana means choosing:
- Safety and accountability
- Qualified and experienced staff
- Clear complaint resolution processes
- A consistent standard of care you can trust
Ready to get started?
While unregistered NDIS providers may seem appealing at first glance, the lack of oversight can carry significant risks. When it comes to your wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a loved one, choosing a registered NDIS provider offers confidence, protection, and peace of mind. If you’re ready to explore safe, reliable, and high-quality support options, Orana is here to help – get in touch with our friendly team today to find out how we can support you in living the life you choose.
