Expert Blog Contributor:
Peta Miller
Chief Executive Officer
JPS Audit Specialists (NDIS)
In this pursuit of excellence, one often underestimated tool emerges as a crucial element in the process – the out-of-cycle audit. Let’s delve into this critical aspect and uncover its profound significance for NDIS service providers.
To begin, let’s demystify the notion of an out-of-cycle audit. Essentially, an out-of-cycle audit is an evaluation conducted outside the usual audit schedule. While standard audits typically occur during initial registration or renewal, out-of-cycle audits present a distinctive opportunity for service providers. They enable providers to adapt and expand their services at any given moment, ensuring they can meet the dynamic and evolving needs of NDIS participants.
You might be wondering when precisely an out-of-cycle audit becomes relevant for your business. The answer lies in your service offerings. If you’ve recently diversified your services or have intentions to introduce new services to NDIS participants, it’s time to consider the significance of an out-of-cycle audit seriously. These audits are precisely tailored to assess the specific modules associated with the new services you plan to provide.
Here are some examples:
Expanding Nursing Services
If your organisation is broadening its nursing services to encompass high-intensity care, such as wound care or catheter management – add Module 1Behaviour Support Plans
In the event that you’re contemplating the development of Behaviour Support Plans to enhance the support provided to your clients – add Module 2Implementing Behaviour Support Plans
For the effective implementation of Behaviour Support Plans – this requires Module 2aExpanding Services to All Age Groups
If you’re exploring the possibility of extending your services to encompass both adults and children – add Module 3Specialised Support Coordination
In the case that you aspire to offer Specialised Support Coordination as part of your Support Coordination services – add Module 4Providing Accommodation Services
If your organisation is venturing into the provision of accommodation services for Supported Independent Living (SIL) clients – add Module 5
These out-of-cycle audits serve as a comprehensive assessment to gauge your organisation’s readiness to offer new services, guaranteeing your alignment with the standards and requirements mandated by the NDIS.
JPS have a unique offering in the Audit compliance space by having an internal team of auditors, compared to the current contractor model arrangement seen at most other auditing bodies. This focus allows learning and development focus which ensures consistency in service and reporting and therefore an enjoyable audit experience.
Audits, though required to be undertaken to become NDIS registered, are also a great opportunity for you to learn about your strengths and some potential weaknesses.
It also provides you with direction on addressing these weaknesses to improve your service and compliance.
Finding the right auditor is not all about price. You should consider other factors such as time to schedule and complete, quality of auditors and reports, and accreditation with JAS ANZ.
Please contact admin@jpsaudit.com.au with any queries.
