3 Common Mistakes New NDIS Providers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Starting an NDIS business is exciting. You get to turn your skills and passion for helping people into something bigger - your own business. But while many people are excellent carers and support workers, the business side of things can feel like uncharted territory.

At Aspire Lawyers, we’ve seen first-hand how small mistakes in the setup stage can cause major headaches later on. The good news? These mistakes are easy to avoid if you know what to look out for.

Here are the three most common mistakes new NDIS providers make - and how you can avoid them.

Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Business Structure

Many new providers start as a sole trader because it feels simple and cheap. But down the line, this can create problems:

• You’re personally liable for debts or claims.

• Growth can be harder if you want to take on staff or partners.

• It may not look as professional when dealing with larger organisations.

On the flip side, jumping straight into a company or partnership without understanding the obligations can also be risky.

How to avoid it: Get advice before you register. The right structure depends on your goals, your risk, and your future plans.

Mistake 2: Relying on Generic Templates

There are plenty of free “NDIS policy packs” and template contracts online. But here’s the problem:

• They’re rarely tailored to your business.

• They don’t always match NDIS Commission standards.

• In an audit, generic policies can be flagged as non-compliant.

We’ve seen providers rejected or delayed because their documents didn’t actually reflect how they worked day-to-day.

How to avoid it: Use policies and contracts tailored to your operations and not someone else’s.

Mistake 3: Forgetting About Service Agreements

Service agreements are the backbone of an NDIS business. They set out:

• What services you’ll provide.

• The terms and conditions.

• The rights and responsibilities of both parties.

Too many providers either don’t have them at all, or use vague agreements that don’t protect them when things go wrong.

How to avoid it: Have clear, NDIS-compliant service agreements for every client. It protects you and builds trust with the people you support.

The Bottom Line

Running an NDIS business is about more than just caring. It’s about building something sustainable and compliant. Choosing the wrong structure, relying on templates, or skipping proper agreements can cost you time, money, and even your registration.

If you’re serious about becoming an NDIS provider, don’t let these mistakes hold you back. With the right foundations, you can focus on what matters most which is delivering quality care to the people who need it. If you have any questions, book a consultation here.