How to identify and avoid scams targeting NDIS participants

Published at 11-03-2025 15:45:00

The NDIS is designed to provide essential support for Australians with disabilities, but unfortunately, scammers and fraudulent operators sometimes try to exploit participants, their families, and even providers. Scammers may attempt to steal personal information, misuse NDIS funds, or charge for services that were never provided.

To protect yourself and your funding, it’s important to be aware of common scams, understand red flags to watch for, and know how to report suspicious activity.

Common types of NDIS scams

Scammers often use different tactics to exploit NDIS participants. Here are some of the most common scams:

1. Overcharging or false billing

Some providers may attempt to charge you for services you never received or inflate the costs of their services. This could include:

🚩 Billing for appointments you never attended.

🚩 Charging more than the agreed rate for a service.

🚩 Claiming funding for extra support hours that weren’t provided.

How to avoid it:

✔ Always review your invoices carefully before approving payment.

✔ Check your NDIS plan statements regularly to ensure your funds are being used correctly.

✔ If you use a plan manager, they can help verify charges and prevent overpayments.

2. Fake NDIS providers

Some scammers pretend to be NDIS-registered providers and offer services they are not qualified to provide. They may:

🚩 Use fake business names or claim to be registered when they’re not.

🚩 Ask for your NDIS details before providing any proof of their legitimacy.

🚩 Disappear after receiving an upfront payment.

How to avoid it:

✔ Always check if a provider is NDIS-registered via the official NDIS provider finder or ask for their registration number.

✔ Request a written service agreement before agreeing to services.

✔ Never share your NDIS details with someone you don’t trust.

3. Identity theft and phishing scams

Scammers may pretend to be from the NDIA, NDIS providers, or government agencies to trick you into giving away personal information. This could include:

🚩 Calls, emails, or texts asking for your NDIS number, bank details, or personal ID.

🚩 Fake websites that look like the NDIS portal but are designed to steal your login credentials.

🚩 Messages with urgent warnings claiming your NDIS funding will be suspended unless you provide personal details.

How to avoid it:

✔ The NDIA will never call or email you asking for personal details—always verify any request directly with the NDIA.

✔ Do not click on links in unexpected emails or text messages—go directly to the official NDIS website.

✔ If you receive a suspicious message, ignore it and report it to the NDIS fraud team.

4. Pressure tactics and misleading claims

Some providers use aggressive sales tactics to pressure participants into using unnecessary services. They may:

🚩 Claim that you must use their services or that you’ll lose funding if you don’t sign up.

🚩 Offer "free" services and ask for your NDIS number, only to later bill you at high rates.

🚩 Push you into signing contracts without fully explaining the terms.

How to avoid it:

✔ Take your time when choosing a provider—you are never required to sign up on the spot.

✔ Get a second opinion before agreeing to large service agreements.

✔ If a provider makes false claims about NDIS rules, check directly with the NDIA.

5. Unauthorised plan changes or misuse of funds

Some scammers gain access to your plan details and make changes without your permission. This could include:

🚩 Moving your plan to a new management type (e.g., switching from self-managed to agency-managed) without your knowledge.

🚩 Directing your funding to services you didn’t approve.

🚩 Claiming to be your plan manager or support coordinator when they are not.

How to avoid it:

✔ If you have a plan manager, regularly check your monthly spending reports to ensure your funds are being used correctly.

✔ Keep your NDIS details private and never share your plan information with anyone except trusted providers.

✔ Always verify changes to your plan by logging into the NDIS myplace portal or contacting the NDIA directly.

How to protect yourself from NDIS scams

Here are simple but effective steps to safeguard your NDIS funds and personal information:

✅ Keep your personal information secure – Never share your NDIS number, banking details, or login credentials with anyone except trusted providers.

✅ Only work with reputable providers – Verify their NDIS registration and ask for a service agreement before committing.

✅ Check your invoices and funding statements – Review charges and services before approving payments. If you have plan management, your plan manager (like Just Plan Managers) will help track your spending and prevent suspicious claims.

✅ Be cautious of unsolicited offers – If a provider contacts you unexpectedly, do your research before engaging their services.

✅ Be wary of ‘too good to be true’ offers – If a service seems suspiciously cheap or completely free, it could be a scam.

✅ Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, don’t proceed. Take the time to investigate and get a second opinion.

How to report NDIS scams and fraud

If you suspect fraudulent activity or believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it immediately to protect yourself and others.

• NDIS Fraud Reporting Hotline: 1800 650 717
• NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission: www.ndiscommission.gov.au
• Scamwatch (Australian Government): www.scamwatch.gov.au

When reporting fraud, try to gather as much detail as possible, including:

• Names of the provider or scammer involved.
• Copies of emails, invoices, or suspicious messages.
• Any financial transactions related to the scam.

The NDIA takes fraud very seriously and investigates all reports to protect participants and their funding.

Final thoughts

While the NDIS provides incredible support, it’s essential to stay vigilant against scams and fraud. By recognizing red flags, checking your invoices, and working with trusted providers, you can protect your funding and personal information.

If you want extra security and financial oversight, Just Plan Managers is here to help.

📞 Call us on 1300 217 037 or ✉ email us at info@justplanmanagers.com.au to learn how we can help you manage your NDIS funds safely and effectively.