Introducing the Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce

The Hon Bill Shorten MP, Minister for the NDIS, has announced a new initiative aimed at collaborating with individuals living with disabilities to improve provider and worker registrations. This effort, known as the NDIS Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce, seeks to provide expert advice to the government on refining the current registration system for those delivering supports, while preserving choice and control for participants, as suggested by the NDIS Review.

The NDIS Review, an independent assessment, recommended adopting a graduated risk-proportionate regulatory model and introducing a new provider risk framework to enhance the visibility and regulation of NDIS providers and workers. The Taskforce is set to support the co-design and development of these reforms for the government’s consideration.

Leading the Taskforce are individuals with diverse expertise, including trusted lawyer and disability advocate Natalie Wade, former chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Allan Fels, former ACTU Assistant Secretary and training and safety expert Michael Borowick, and former Administrator of the Northern Territory Vicki O’Halloran.

Minister Shorten emphasises the significance of the new regulatory system, aiming to ensure that no individual is overlooked within the NDIS framework. The vision is for Australia to pioneer a globally applicable regulatory model for disability services, emphasising innovative solutions within the NDIS.

The Taskforce’s mission is framed around improving the NDIS market for individuals with disabilities, in collaboration with the disability community, without bias or preconceived notions. It aims to bridge existing regulatory gaps and deliver quality and safety in supports, while respecting the principles of choice and control for participants.

The recommendations from the NDIS Review aim to provide greater oversight of service delivery while upholding the principles of choice and control for participants. The Taskforce will explore methods to ensure all providers meet a minimum regulatory standard, especially those offering intensive supports, while minimizing administrative burdens associated with registration.

Taking a gradual approach, the Taskforce will actively engage with the disability community, NDIS providers, and workers to ensure inclusive decision-making processes. Collaboration with the Department of Social Services, which has established a specialised Review team, will further support the Taskforce’s objectives.

Key considerations for the Taskforce include safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities, facilitating self-management for participants, and mitigating risks of harm. The Taskforce is expected to deliver a report with advice and recommendations by mid-2024.