Following the NDIS Review, the government is moving the sector toward mandatory registration in phases, rather than all at once. Some provider types are affected from 1 July 2026. If you have operated unregistered, now is the time to plan. Here is what is changing and how to prepare.
What is changing
Registration is being made mandatory in waves based on the risk of the supports delivered. Higher-risk and more visible provider types come first, with others phased in over the following years. The aim is stronger safeguards across the whole sector.
Who is affected first
An early wave, including SIL providers and platform providers, is set to be affected from 1 July 2026. Personal care and other daily living supports are expected to follow from 2027, with further categories after that. Exact scope and dates are set by the government, so check current guidance.
Why register early
Registration takes time, mostly because of the documentation and the audit. Starting early avoids a last-minute rush, lets you serve NDIA-managed participants, and signals quality to referrers. Waiting until a deadline is the most common and most avoidable mistake.
How to get ready
Confirm which registration groups apply, get your policies and registers in order, complete worker screening and orientation, and book your audit. The bulk of the work is documentation, which you can prepare now.
Frequently asked questions
When does NDIS mandatory registration start?
It is being phased in. An early wave, including SIL and platform providers, is set to be affected from 1 July 2026, with other supports following from 2027. Check current government guidance for exact scope and dates.
Who has to register first?
Higher-risk and more visible provider types come first, including SIL and platform providers from 1 July 2026. Other categories are phased in over the following years.
How long does it take to get registered?
Most providers take a few months, largely depending on how quickly they get their policies and evidence in order. Starting early is the best way to avoid a deadline rush.
Related NDIS guides
General information for Australian NDIS providers, not legal advice. Always check the current NDIS Practice Standards and NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission requirements for your situation.