NDIS Scam - How to Protect Yourself - National Disability Insurance Scheme

Common NDIS Scam Types

• Impersonation & Phishing: Scammers call, text, or email pretending to be from the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) or Services Australia. They often falsely claim you have a "plan debt" or threaten to cancel your funding unless you hand over your myGov passwords, Medicare details, or bank information.
• Fake or Inflated Invoicing: Dodgy providers submit padded invoices or charge for "ghost" services—billing for hours not worked, staff who never showed up, or non-existent equipment.
• Identity Theft & Plan Hijacking: Criminal networks steal participant data to lodge unauthorized claims against funding packages without the participant’s knowledge.
• High-Pressure Tactics: Shady operators pressure vulnerable participants to sign service agreements quickly, using false threats like "the NDIS rules are changing and you will lose your package today if you don't sign".
• NDIS Price Price-Gouging: Providers overcharge for standard community items or services (like home maintenance or transport) by inflating rates by 30% or more simply because it is being funded through an NDIS package.

Official NDIS Red Flags

The NDIA emphasizes that they will never do the following:

• Call and threaten to cancel your NDIS plan due to an outstanding debt.
• Email or text you a direct link to update your banking details or log into myGov.
• Demand payment via cash, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.

If You Suspect an NDIS Scam

If you notice missing funds, suspicious activity on your portal, or receive an unexpected message, take immediate action:

• Report to the Helpline: Call the dedicated NDIS Fraud Reporting and Scams Helpline at 1800 650 717 (Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm AEST).
• Submit an Online Tip-Off: Use the official NDIS Fraud Reporting Form to securely detail non-compliance or theft.
• Secure Your Accounts: If you clicked an unsafe link or shared passwords, log into myGov immediately to change your details, and report it to the Services Australia Scams Risk Team.
• Check Service Records: Regularly audit your plan history or coordinate with your plan manager to ensure all paid provider invoices perfectly match the services you actually received.