Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Verification | Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Intensity | Less intensive | More comprehensive |
| On-site visits | May be desktop only | Always includes site visits |
| Evidence depth | Sample checks | Extensive documentation review |
| Participant interviews | Optional | Required |
| Typical duration | 1-2 days | 2-5 days |
| Validity period | Up to 3 years | Up to 3 years |
| Required for | Most registration groups | Groups 0137 (Digital Platforms) and 0139 (SIL) only |
Verification Audit in Detail
A verification audit is suitable for providers offering supports that are considered lower-risk under the NDIS framework. The audit process includes:
Assessment Methods
- Desktop review of policies, procedures, and systems documentation
- Interviews with key personnel (management and selected workers)
- Sample checks of records (e.g., service agreements, worker screening, incident reports)
- On-site inspection (may be optional depending on the registration groups)
What's Assessed
- Core Module of the NDIS Practice Standards (all providers)
- Relevant supplementary modules based on your registration groups
- Compliance with worker screening requirements
- Incident management and complaints handling systems
- Service agreements and participant rights documentation
Preparation Time: 2-4 months
Allow adequate time to establish required policies, train staff, and implement systems before scheduling your verification audit.
Certification Audit in Detail
Certification audits apply to high-risk supports where participants may be particularly vulnerable. As of 1 July 2026, certification is required for:
- 0137 — Providing an NDIS Digital Platform Service
- 0139 — High Intensity Daily Personal Activities (SIL)
Assessment Methods
- Comprehensive desktop review of all documentation
- Mandatory on-site inspections of all service delivery locations
- Interviews with management, workers, and participants
- Observation of service delivery in action
- Extensive sampling of participant files and records
- Review of physical environments and safety measures
What's Assessed
Everything from verification, plus:
- Living environment standards (for SIL providers)
- 24-hour support arrangements and staff ratios
- Medication management systems
- Restrictive practice authorisations and monitoring
- Platform-specific conditions (for digital platform providers)
- Worker screening display and checking processes
Preparation Time: 4-6 months (or longer)
Certification audits require significantly more preparation, especially for new providers. Engage with your chosen auditor early to understand specific requirements.
Which Audit Type Do You Need?
Your audit type depends on your registration groups:
You need verification if:
- None of your registration groups are 0137 or 0139
- You're providing supports like personal care, therapy, plan management, or support coordination
You need certification if:
- You're registering for group 0137 (Digital Platforms) OR group 0139 (SIL)
- Even if you have other groups that would normally only need verification, the entire audit becomes certification
Next Steps
- Use our Registration Pathway Checker to confirm your audit type
- Read our guide on preparing for your audit
- Select an approved auditor from the NDIS Commission list