Introduction:

Marketing in the NDIS space comes with unique challenges and responsibilities. Unlike traditional business models, NDIS providers operate in a regulated, participant-focused environment where ethical practice, compliance, and trust are critical. Whether you're a new provider or looking to scale your services, this guide will help you build a compliant, ethical, and effective marketing strategy tailored to the NDIS landscape.

Why Marketing in the NDIS Space is Different

NDIS providers deliver services to people with disabilities—often some of society’s most vulnerable. As a result, marketing efforts must be:

• Participant-centred (not sales-driven)
• Clear, truthful, and transparent
• Compliant with NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission rules

Relevant Source: NDIS Practice Standards – Provider Governance and Operational Management

NDIS Act 2013 – Section 73F & 73K (misleading conduct, false claims)

🧭 Step-by-Step: Building an Ethical NDIS Marketing Strategy

Step 1: Define Your Value Proposition

Before promoting your business, get clear on:

• What sets you apart?
• Who do you serve best?
• What outcomes do you support?

Example:

“We specialise in mental health support for young adults in regional Victoria. Our culturally responsive team focuses on long-term capacity building.”

Step 2: Get Your Website NDIS-Ready

Your website should:

• Clearly list your services and registration groups
• Include a privacy policy, complaints process, and easy contact options
• Avoid phrases like “guaranteed funding” or “free support” unless accurate

Tip: Use alt-text on images and ensure accessibility for screen readers. NDIS participants may have diverse abilities and needs.

Step 3: Leverage Education-Based Marketing

NDIS participants are often confused about how the scheme works. Become a trusted resource by sharing:

• Blogs on topics like support coordination, plan management, or plan reviews
• Social media posts explaining how funding categories work
• Free downloadable templates (e.g. questions to ask a new provider)

Assist Providers can help with pre-written blogs, Canva templates, and staff content training to simplify this process.

Step 4: Use Social Media—But Stay Compliant

Focus on:

• Sharing value, not selling
• Posting testimonials (with written consent only!)
• Avoiding emotional manipulation or fear-based messaging

Controversial Content? Use it wisely. Challenge industry issues with professionalism (e.g. “Why participants don’t trust providers—and how we fix it”).

Step 5: Get Visible Locally

NDIS marketing doesn’t just happen online. Build relationships through:

• Networking with LACs, support coordinators, plan managers
• Hosting or attending expos, community events, disability forums
• Partnering with advocacy organisations

Step 6: Track What’s Working

Use basic tools to measure your marketing efforts:

• Google Analytics for your website
• Social media insights
• A CRM or spreadsheet to track referrals

Look at which service pages, blog posts, or hashtags are generating inquiries—and build on that.

Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using generic or misleading language (e.g. “Get everything funded fast!”)

🚫 Ignoring compliance in social media and testimonial use

🚫 Overpromising or pressuring participants to switch providers

🚫 Marketing services outside your registration group or scope

NDIS compliance isn’t just for audits—it’s about building trust long-term.

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

We understand the compliance risks and opportunities in NDIS marketing. That’s why Assist Providers offers:

✅ Marketing templates tailored to NDIS services

✅ Website audits to ensure you're compliant

✅ Staff training on ethical content creation

✅ Social media content calendars built for providers

✅ Full-service digital campaigns with an NDIS lens

Marketing doesn't have to feel “salesy”—it should feel like service.

✅ Final Thoughts

In the NDIS world, ethical marketing is powerful marketing. By positioning yourself as a trusted, transparent, and participant-focused provider, you’ll not only attract more clients—you’ll build a sustainable reputation for years to come.

Remember, it’s not just about reach—it’s about responsibility.