NDIA Taskforce takes NDIS fraudsters to court

Key points:

• The National Disability Insurance Agency Taskforce has identified more ‘dodgy’ National Disability Insurance Scheme providers and participants who are now awaiting sentencing for defrauding the NDIS
• Learning about some NDIS providers and their unethical actions may seem unnerving, but the Disability Support Guide provides information about how to choose NDIS providers with interactive search options
• Approximately 661,200 Australians are registered as NDIS participants, according to the latest data from the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Agency Taskforce has revealed more ‘dodgy’ NDIS providers will be sentenced, however, the Disability Support Guide is available to help people with disability find providers suitable to their needs. 

The NDIA’s Crack Down on Fraud program has resulted in more than $75 million dollars in halted payments since July 2024 to NDIS providers.

However, four people were recently involved in ‘dodgy’ NDIS provider practices, including:

• an NDIS provider in Sydney who conducted more than $1 million dollars in fraud-related NDIS offences;
• an ex-NDIS participant in Sydney who engaged family members to de-fraud the NDIS of $69,000 dollars; and
• two Victorians who created false invoices to defraud an NDIS plan.

NDIS Minister Bill Shorten highlighted the impact of the Taskforce to identify NDIS providers that are manipulating the system and how NDIS participants are affected. 

“Providers need to understand that they can’t be ‘half honest.’ If the NDIA suspects something might be dodgy about a submitted claim, the NDIA won’t pay it and will make enquiries,” he said.

“If fraudulent activity is detected, [the NDIA’s] first priority is ensuring participant safety and welfare, meaning the NDIA will move participants to alternative providers and may then launch an investigation into the provider.

“Pleasingly, the disability community is playing its part. Tip-offs have more than doubled since we introduced the Taskforce, with more than 5,000 tip-offs received so far this financial year.”

You can report NDIS provider fraud and non-compliance by completing the NDIS Fraud Reporting Form, calling the NDIS Fraud Reporting and Scams Helpline on 1800 650 717 or emailing [email protected]. 

The NDIA ‘has zero tolerance for fraud against the NDIS, participants and the NDIA. Any amount of fraud is unacceptable,’ as per information on the NDIS website. 

Examples of NDIS fraud include:

• misusing NDIS funds;
• providing misleading or false information;
• theft; and
• misusing equipment or other facilities. 

When NDIS providers or participants engage in fraud, it can limit the remaining funds allocated to other supports and place unnecessary strain on caregivers and family members.

Getting help in advocating for yourself or someone else who is an NDIS participant can seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. The Disability Support Guide has a list of national contacts to support people with disability, including advocacy, government and health contacts in this guide: NDIS useful numbers.

There may be times when you don’t feel listened to or feel like decisions are being made for you without any consideration of your thoughts, feelings or opinions. This is where disability advocates can play a vital role.

Many people find it difficult to raise a complaint or concern but you should address your concerns early and not let it escalate. 

An advocate can also enable and support you by:

• helping you understand your rights;
• listening to your concerns; and
• discussing your options for raising that concern.

They can assist with negotiating changes to your NDIS plan, give advice and support when dealing with service providers, and help you overcome any barriers that may impact your ability to participate in your community. Read more about disability advocates and how they could help you in this Disability Support Guide article: The basics of disability advocacy.

Approximately 661,200 Australians are registered as NDIS participants, according to the latest data from the NDIS.

However, even if your NDIS provider is not ripping you off, you may be unhappy with the service and are looking to find a new provider. You can visit the Disability Support Guide where you can search for providers by name. 

Additionally, the Disability Support Guide search functions mean you can look for:

• accommodation; 
• advisors;
• equipment and technology;
• in-home and community support;
• mental health support; and 
• therapists and specialists. 

Additionally, if you have just received NDIS funding, knowing where to go for information is a good place to start. Check out the Disability Support Guide’s starter guide for more information about what step to take next. 

Approximately 5.5 million Australians live with disability, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. 

What are you looking to get from your NDIS provider?

Let the team at Talking Disability know on social media. 

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