Using the NDIS Provider Finder: how to shortlist a provider

Finding the right support can take time, and it helps to know where to start. If you're looking for a new National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, the NDIS Provider Finder is a good place to begin. It lists registered providers near you, with their contact details and the supports they are registered to deliver.

This guide explains how to search the NDIS Provider Finder, what each listing tells you and how to turn your results into a shortlist you can compare.

What the NDIS Provider Finder shows

The Provider Finder is a free search tool on the NDIS website that lists providers registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

Each listing can include:

• the provider's name, phone number, email and website

• their suburb or address

• the registration groups they are registered for, such as daily personal activities or household tasks

• their opening hours, where the provider has added them.

The Provider Finder only shows registered providers. If your plan is self-managed or plan-managed, you can usually also use unregistered providers, and they won't appear in this search. The NDIS explains when you can use each type of provider.

How to search the Provider Finder

1. Open the Provider Finder on the NDIS website.

2. Type your suburb or postcode in the search bar, then choose the closest match from the list.

3. Use the filters to narrow your results by state or territory and by registration group.

4. Read through the listings, or use the map to see which providers are close to you.

You can also download the results as a PDF, which is useful if you'd like to read them later or share them with someone who's helping you.

Choose the registration groups that match your plan

Registration groups describe the types of support a provider is registered to deliver. Filtering by them helps you find providers who offer the supports in your plan.

Start with the supports you want to use, then pick the matching groups. For example, if you need help with showering and dressing, look at daily personal activities. If you need help getting to appointments, look at assistance with travel or transport arrangements.

If you're not sure which groups match your supports, your my NDIS contact, support coordinator or recovery coach can help.

Turn your results into a shortlist

A shortlist of three or four providers is easier to compare than a long one. For each provider, note:

• whether they cover your suburb, and the days and times you need

• which of your supports they can deliver now

• how they match support workers to the people they support

• the best way to contact them.

Then contact each provider and ask them all the same questions, so you can compare their answers side by side.

Questions to ask before you choose

• Can you deliver the supports in my plan, at the times I need them?

• Who will support me, and how do you introduce a new support worker?

• What are your prices, and how do you charge for travel and cancellations?

• How do I raise a concern or make a complaint?

• Can we meet before I sign a service agreement?

The NDIS suggests meeting new providers before you start working with them, and agreeing in writing how you'll work together. Our guide to NDIS service agreements explains what to check before you sign.

If you already have a provider

If you're searching because your current provider isn't working out, you can change providers at any time. The NDIS recommends finding your new provider first, so there's no gap in your support. Our guide on how to switch your NDIS provider walks through each step.

Talk to your local HomeCaring team

HomeCaring is a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider. If you would like to add us to your short list, talk to your local team or call 1300 875 377. Tell us the supports in your plan and the times that matter to you, and we will tell you what the local team can offer.