A self-audit is the cheapest way to find and fix problems before a real auditor does. It also doubles as evidence of continuous improvement, which auditors like to see. Here is how to run one without overcomplicating it.
Why self-audit?
A self-audit finds gaps while they are still cheap to fix, builds your team's understanding of the standards, and creates an evidence trail that you actively monitor quality. It is both a check and a piece of audit evidence.
How to run one
Work through each relevant Practice Standard and ask three questions: is there a policy, is there a record showing it is used, and does practice match? Score each as in place, partly in place, or missing, and note the evidence.
Common gaps to look for
Watch for outdated policies, empty registers, missing signed acknowledgements, no continuous improvement evidence, and practice that does not match paperwork. These are the same gaps that fail real audits.
Fix and re-check
Turn your findings into a short action list with owners and dates, fix the gaps, and re-check. Keep the completed self-audit and action list, that record is exactly what an auditor wants to see.
Frequently asked questions
What is an NDIS self-audit?
A self-assessment where you check your service against the NDIS Practice Standards to find and fix gaps before a real audit. It also serves as continuous improvement evidence.
How do I do an NDIS self-audit?
For each relevant standard, check that a policy exists, that a record shows it is used, and that practice matches. Score each, note the evidence, then fix what is missing.
Does a self-audit help at the real audit?
Yes. A completed self-audit and action list show auditors you actively monitor and improve quality, which is exactly what they want to see.
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.