If you are providing supports or services to NDIS participants, there is a lot of information you need to know. It is your responsibility to make sure you meet all NDIS guidelines and criteria.
From 3/10/24, you must follow the new legislative requirements, or you could have a debt raised against you. https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10469-email-ceo-about-ndis-supports-transition-period-providers
We’ve listed some links below so you can correctly invoice your NDIS participants. There are also some tips for those of you who are newly self-employed. If you need detailed help to put your invoices together, see our page on Invoice Requirements.
NDIS Information You Need to Know
- Invoice requirements and record keeping: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/working-provider/getting-paid/invoicing-and-record-keeping
- Services and Supports that can, and cannot, be claimed from the NDIS: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/what-does-ndis-fund
- NDIS Price Guides list all available supports providers can claim under. Plan managers can only claim in line with these guides – the latest versions are available here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements
Remember: just because there is a code for a support, does not mean that you can charge under it. Some codes have requirements for providers to meet before using the code. The support must also be an allowable support for that participant. Supports are disability specific, and what may be claimable can change from one participant to another.
If you’re new to being self-employed
NDIS requirements for workers
The NDIS is constantly changing and bringing in new requirements for everyone. Make sure to regularly check the NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission website and stay up to date with NDIS news.
https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au
- The Commission’s Code of Conduct applies to all NDIS providers – both registered and unregistered. Make sure you are familiar with it. https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/about/ndis-code-conduct
- The Commission has free training which will help you in your role. https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/workforce/online-training-modules
- A Worker Screening check is mandatory for some workers, and voluntary for others. https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/workforce/worker-screening
Insurance
You must maintain appropriate insurances for the services you provide. It’s best to get advice from a professional, but there’s a quick overview here: https://mycarespace.com.au/carers. If you’re going to be transporting participants in your vehicle, you should have Comprehensive Car insurance. We also suggest checking with your insurer that you will be covered if using your vehicle will provide you with an income.
Taxation
Are you in business according to the definition by the ATO? https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/starting-registering-or-closing-a-business/starting-your-own-business/are-you-in-business.
The ATO has helpful information on taxes, superannuation, and other relevant topics. We recommend you consult an appropriate professional to avoid having any nasty surprises come tax time.
Working with Children or Vulnerable People
If you are providing assistance to children or vulnerable people, you will need to have a Working With Children / Vulnerable People’s Check (Victoria). Other states have different names, so check what’s required in your state. You may also need to know First Aid and how to do CPR. Your insurance may be affected if you don’t know these, so please check with your insurer. It also helps provide peace of mind for your participants. Keep your qualifications updated and check expiry dates.
Awards
If you are employed by someone, then you will be paid by them under an award. For example, the SCHADS award for support workers. As a self-employed business owner, awards do not apply to you. We do not process invoices according to any awards, only under the requirements of the NDIS.
Negotiated Rates
The NDIS lists the maximum amounts payable. You can, however, negotiate an agreed rate of pay with your client that is lower. As long as your claim is equal to or below the NDIS maximum rates we can process it, but your client still has to approve it.
Service Agreements
You may not need to have a service agreement in place for your service. However, you do need to agree with your client beforehand on what you will charge, and when. If there is a dispute, you may need to show what you both agreed to. You must let your client know beforehand if you are going to charge for travel, cancellation fees, or non-face-to-face charges.
