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The NDIS Certification Renewal can be an overwhelming process, particularly when there isn’t a clear pathway outlined.
The application and audit process must be completed in full (including any non-conformities raised being adequately addressed) prior to your NDIS Certification Renewal Date.
Why do we Need to Renew?
As your NDIS Certification is awarded for a maximum of 3 years, it is important to apply to the NDIS Commission for Renewal to maintain your NDIS Certification. An audit will be required as part of the process, in which your chosen Approved Quality Auditor (AQA) and the NDIS Commission will assess your organisation against the current version to the NDIS Practice Standards (and related legislation and rules) as these may have changed since your last audit. This aligns with the requirement to undergo a complete audit to the NDIS Practice Standards every 3 years.
Conducting ongoing audits also ensures that your systems and procedures remain compliant with the Commissions’ requirements and encourage continuous improvement of your systems and services provided to your participants. It is also an opportunity for you to assess any changes your organisation has undergone since your last audit. It is important that your AQA and the Commission are made aware of these changes and any impact it may have on the delivery of services, as well as assess any new services that your organisation may wish to deliver.
When should we Commence the Renewal Process?
The renewal process can commence 6 months prior to your renewal date. We recommend taking advantage of this to ensure you have enough time to complete all the required activities. View the infographic as a 6-month guide to help you prepare for your upcoming NDIS Certification Renewal.
Watch our 6 Steps to Renew your NDIS Certification Video
Watch NowWhat is the Renewal Process?
Below is a 6 step guide to renewing your NDIS Certification:
Step 1. Submit a Renewal application, including your provider information and a self-assessment.
Step 2. Update your Scope of Audit
Step 3. Update your audit plan
Step 4. Complete your Stage 1 audit
Step 5. Complete your Recertification audit
Step 6. NDIS Commission will review your application
How do we Prepare for our Renewal Audit?
Once you have checked and confirmed your details in relation to sites, participant numbers, staff and registration groups, are still correct, here are 5 key things you can do to help prepare for your upcoming NDIS audit:
- Familiarise yourself with the NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators
- Complete the Self-Assessment Tool for each applicable module
- Ensure you can demonstrate the implementation of your policies and procedures
- Ensure all documentation is readily accessible for the auditors
- If applicable, prepare any site visits and/or participants and staff interviews in advance.
5 Things To Prepare Before Your NDIS Audit
This guide will not only help check your documents, policies and procedures are up to date, but also assess whether your staff are adequately trained of any new requirements and implementing them. This is essential to ensure your organisation is compliant with the requirements of the current version of the NDIS Practice Standards and all related legislations.
What is Involved in NDIS Certification Renewal Audit?
The NDIS Certification Renewal audit will address:
- The effectiveness of your service in its entirety
- Demonstrated commitment to maintaining the effectiveness and improvement of the service to enhance the overall performance
- The effectiveness of the service to achieving your provider’s objectives and intended results of its service to participants
What are some of the Common Mistakes/Non-Conformances to Look Out For?
Internal Audits
One of the most common mistakes that organisations make is overlooking the importance of regular internal audits. Regularly reviewing your systems and services allows you to identify and address any gaps in your policies and procedures against standards requirements, as well as ensure staff (current and new) are adequately trained and implementing these appropriately.
→ Watch webinar on-demand: How to Conduct and Manage an Effective Internal Audit Program.
Worker Screening
Organisations often fail to meet the requirements and obligations to screen workers where appropriate. This is a legal requirement to ensure key personnel and workers in particular roles do not pose a risk to the safety and wellbeing of NDIS participants. Each state and territory have different arrangements for when a worker must apply for an NDIS Worker Screening Check.
Plan for Continuity
Another common mistake we see is overlooking or not planning for continuity. This may involve having a contingency plan or alternate arrangements made. An example includes when an employee is on leave, or leaves the company. Having a plan for continuity of support is very important, particularly in circumstances such as a pandemic or natural disaster.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
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SAI Global has available tools, that you can simply refer to and share within your organisation about auditing and certification. Your SAI Global team are highly experienced and are ready to help and work with you on any specific requirements you may have. Please contact us at disability.enquiries@saiglobal.com