A significant shift is coming for NDIS providers in 2026. In December 2025, the Minister for the NDIS announced that two categories of providers will be required to become registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission by 1 July 2026. Here is what you need to know.
Which Providers Must Register?
From 1 July 2026, the following categories of providers will be required to hold registration with the NDIS Commission:
- Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers
- Platform providers (those operating digital platforms connecting participants with support workers)
This change reflects the government’s focus on quality and safety in higher-risk support environments. SIL providers work with participants in shared living arrangements, often providing around-the-clock support — a context in which registration and oversight are considered especially important.
Why Is This Happening?
The move follows recommendations from both the NDIS Review and the Disability Royal Commission, which highlighted quality and safeguarding challenges for people with disability in Australia. Mandatory registration brings these providers under the NDIS Practice Standards and the oversight of the NDIS Commission’s audit and compliance framework.
What Does Registration Involve?
Registered providers must comply with the NDIS Practice Standards, which set minimum requirements for service quality and safety. They must also undergo regular audits and meet worker screening requirements. The NDIS Commission is currently reviewing the Practice Standards, including developing a new SIL-specific practice standard.
What About Other Unregistered Providers?
For now, most other unregistered providers — including many sole-trader support workers — are not affected by this particular change. However, the broader reform agenda signals that the NDIS is moving towards greater accountability across the sector. Providers should stay informed about further announcements.
Azalea Care is a registered NDIS provider. All of our services comply with the NDIS Practice Standards and Quality and Safeguards Framework. You can trust that we meet the highest standards of care.