NDIS Compliance Checklist for Support Workers (2026)

Staying Compliant as an NDIS Support Worker

NDIS compliance isn't optional. Whether you're an independent provider or part of a team, maintaining your compliance documents is essential for keeping your registration and protecting participants.

This checklist covers everything you need to have current and accessible in 2026.

Personal Compliance Documents

NDIS Worker Screening Check

Mandatory for all NDIS workers. This has replaced the old Working with Vulnerable People check in most states. Apply through your state's screening authority. Processing times vary from 2-6 weeks, so don't leave it until the last minute.

Working with Children Check (WWCC)

Required if you work with NDIS participants under 18. This is separate from the NDIS Worker Screening Check.

First Aid and CPR Certificate

HLTAID011 (Provide First Aid) is the standard requirement. CPR must be renewed annually. First Aid every 3 years. Mark your renewal dates and start the process at least 4 weeks before expiry.

Professional Insurance

If you're an independent provider, you need:

• Professional indemnity insurance
• Public liability insurance (minimum $10 million cover is standard)
• Personal accident insurance (recommended)

Driver's Licence and Vehicle Insurance

If you use your car for work (community access, transport), your vehicle insurance must cover business use. A personal-only policy may void your cover during work activities.

Documentation Requirements

Service Agreements

Every participant must have a current service agreement. It should cover:

• Services to be provided
• Pricing (aligned with NDIS Price Guide)
• Cancellation terms
• Responsibilities of both parties

Progress Notes / Case Notes

Document every shift. Notes should be objective, specific, and completed the same day. See our full guide on writing NDIS case notes for detailed examples.

Incident Reports

Any incident involving a participant (injury, near-miss, behavioural event, medication error, use of restrictive practice) must be reported within 24 hours. Reportable incidents must be submitted to the NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission within 5 business days.

Restrictive Practice Records

If you work with participants whose plans include restrictive practices, you must maintain detailed records of every instance, including the type of practice, duration, context, and outcome.

Organisational Compliance (For Teams)

If you run a registered NDIS provider organisation:

• NDIS Practice Standards audit (initial and ongoing)
• Quality Management System documented and maintained
• Staff training records for all mandatory training modules
• Vehicle compliance records if operating a fleet
• Property inspection logs for SIL and group homes
• Complaints and feedback register with documented resolution

How to Stay on Top of It

Manual tracking in spreadsheets works until it doesn't. One lapsed document can trigger a compliance issue during an audit.

Software platforms like KoalaNotes provide automated compliance tracking with dashboard alerts for expiring documents, training certifications, and vehicle registrations. The system flags items weeks before they lapse so you have time to act.

Monthly Compliance Check

Run through this quick list on the first of every month:

• Are all worker screening checks current?
• Is First Aid/CPR up to date for all staff?
• Are insurance policies active?
• Are service agreements signed for all active participants?
• Are case notes completed for every shift in the past month?
• Are any incident reports outstanding?
• Have compliance alerts in your software been addressed?

If you can answer yes to all seven, you're audit-ready.