Introduction

Registering as an NDIS provider isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Instead, the NDIS uses a modular registration system, where providers register for specific registration groups based on the services they intend to deliver. Each group has its own compliance requirements, risks, and assessment criteria, and it’s critical to understand them before applying.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What NDIS registration groups are
• The core and supplementary modules
• Who needs to register under which groups
• How the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission assesses each group

Whether you’re new to the NDIS or reassessing your business scope, this guide will help you navigate registration with clarity and confidence.

🔍 What Are NDIS Registration Groups?

NDIS registration groups (often referred to as “registration classes” or “modules”) categorise the different types of supports and services a provider can deliver under the scheme. There are over 30+ registration groups, but they fall under broader categories based on:

• Risk level
• Service type
• Participant vulnerability

Registration groups also determine what NDIS Practice Standards a provider must comply with and whether they are subject to verification or certification audits.

🧩 The Four Key Modules of NDIS Registration

The NDIS Commission outlines four key modules that providers may need to comply with depending on the registration group(s) they choose:

1. Core Module (Required for All Registered Providers)

This module is the foundation. It applies to every registered provider, regardless of services delivered.

🔹 Covers:

• Rights and responsibilities
• Governance and operational management
• Support provision and environment
• Feedback and complaints
• Incident management

📌 Real-World Example: A sole trader delivering community participation support must still comply with the Core Module, including having a complaints process and risk management practices.

2. Supplementary Module 1: High-Intensity Daily Personal Activities

Applies to providers delivering complex or intensive personal care such as:

• Feeding tubes
• Catheter care
• Seizure monitoring

🔹 Additional Requirements:

• Clinical governance systems
• Training and supervision of staff
• Participant health risk plans

🩺 Example: A provider supporting participants with tracheostomies or PEG feeding will need this module and certification under relevant NDIS Practice Standards.

3. Supplementary Module 2: Specialist Behaviour Support

Required if your service includes:

• Developing or reviewing Behaviour Support Plans
• Implementing Restrictive Practices

🔹 Additional Requirements:

• Clinically trained behaviour practitioners
• Behaviour support framework
• Monitoring and reporting on restrictive practices

🔍 Note: This module is legally significant. The NDIS Commission monitors restrictive practices closely.

4. Supplementary Module 3: Implementing Behaviour Support Plans

Applies if your service involves applying behaviour support plans developed by someone else. You don’t need to write the plans, but you:

• Implement strategies
• Record outcomes
• Possibly apply restrictive practices

📘 Tip: Providers who implement BSPs without holding this module are non-compliant. Even day programs and support workers may need it if they help manage behaviours of concern.

🧾 Examples of Common NDIS Registration Groups and Their Requirements

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common NDIS registration groups and which modules they align with:

🛠️ Verification vs Certification: What's the Difference?

• Verification: For low-risk providers like cleaners or therapists. Assessed via documentation review.
• Certification: For higher-risk services like personal care, SIL, or BSP. Requires on-site audit and more extensive systems.

📋 Assist Providers Tip: Even if you only provide low-risk supports, registering under the wrong group may trigger a certification audit. Know before you apply.

⚠️ Common Mistakes Providers Make

1. Registering for services they don’t intend to deliver
2. Overlooking the need for Module 3 when implementing behaviour support
3. Assuming allied health professionals don’t need to register because they’re AHPRA-licensed
4. Applying for too many groups, increasing audit costs unnecessarily
5. Failing to meet supplementary module requirements

🔄 Should You Register for Multiple Groups?

Yes, if you genuinely intend to deliver multiple types of services.

🧠 Strategy: Focus your registration on your core business offering. You can expand later via a variation of registration once your systems are mature.

✅ Key Takeaways

• There are over 30 NDIS registration groups tied to your services
• You must meet different Practice Standards and audit requirements for each group
• Understand the difference between Core and Supplementary Modules
• Choose only the groups you plan to deliver now
• Seek expert help to avoid audit failures or registration delays

💼 Call to Action:

Confused about which NDIS modules you need?

Let Assist Providers guide you through the registration maze.

✅ Minimise audit stress

✅ Maximise your chances of approval

📲 Contact us today for expert NDIS registration support.