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How to Get Clients as an NDIS Provider: A Practical Guide

If you’ve started your own NDIS business or are considering buying an NDIS business for sale, one of the first challenges you’ll face is figuring out how to attract clients. Running an NDIS company is about much more than being registered it’s about building trust, building networks, and making sure the right people know about the services you offer.

Whether you’re new to the sector, looking at NDIS businesses for sale, or already an experienced provider wanting to grow, finding clients can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are tried-and-true strategies you can put into practice to grow your client base and support more participants. Let’s break down some practical steps you can take.

Becoming an NDIS registered provider is no small task. It takes time, effort, and dedication. But once you’re approved, the real work begins you need to connect with participants who need your services.

One of the great benefits of being an NDIS registered provider is that you can work with participants regardless of how they manage their funds: whether self-managed, plan-managed, or agency-managed. That means your potential client pool is broad. The challenge is getting noticed and showing participants why they should choose your NDIS company over another.

If you’ve purchased an NDIS business for sale, you may already have a starting base of clients. But if you want your business to grow and thrive, you’ll need to keep finding new participants to support.

Step 1: Build Strong Relationships in Your Community

At the heart of the NDIS is people. Building relationships is one of the most effective ways to find new clients.

  • Connect with Support Coordinators – These professionals play a huge role in helping participants choose providers. You can use the NDIS Provider Finder to find local Support Coordinators and then reach out to them. Instead of sending a generic message, personalise your communication. Explain why your services are relevant to their participants and how you can make their jobs easier.

  • Reach out to Local Area Coordinators (LACs) – LACs often run community engagement activities, events, and local initiatives. By connecting with them, you might be able to participate in events or have your information shared with participants.

  • Collaborate with other providers – Building partnerships with other local businesses whether disability-related or not can help you expand your reach. For example, if you’re a support worker provider, linking up with allied health professionals could be mutually beneficial.

When people in your community know about your NDIS company and trust what you do, they’ll be more likely to recommend you to participants.

Step 2: Strengthen Your Brand and Online Presence

In today’s world, if people can’t find you online, you’re invisible. Participants and their families will often research providers before making a decision, so you need to show up and stand out.

  • Create a professional profile – Whether on your own website or a directory like NDSP’s Disability Service Providers network, make sure your profile clearly explains what you do, who you help, and what makes you different. Use a professional image and keep your description short but powerful.

  • Show you’re registered – If you’re an NDIS registered provider, display the NDIS logo (in line with guidelines) on your website and marketing material. It reassures people that you’re compliant and trustworthy.

  • Get listed on directories – Beyond NDIS-specific directories, list your business on platforms like Google Business Profile, Yellow Pages, or True Local. On Google Business, reviews are especially important. A handful of positive reviews can do wonders for your credibility.

  • Use social media wisely – You don’t have to post daily, but platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn can help you share updates, success stories, and advice. This builds trust and helps participants feel connected to your company before they even reach out.

If you’re exploring NDIS businesses for sale, remember that a strong online presence is often one of the biggest assets a company can have.

Step 3: Highlight What Makes You Different

In a competitive market, participants want to know why they should choose your NDIS company over someone else. Your “point of difference” could be anything from your specialised skills to the way you personalise your services.

Think about:

  • Service differentiation – What unique services or approach do you offer? Maybe you have a strong focus on cultural awareness, or perhaps your business is known for matching participants with support workers based on shared interests.

  • Cost differentiation – This isn’t about being the cheapest but about providing value. For instance, maybe your policies around travel or cancellations are more flexible than others.

  • Social proof – Client testimonials and success stories are powerful. Share reviews and feedback from participants who are happy with your services. This builds trust with potential clients.

Remember: People don’t just buy services they buy trust.

Step 4: Stay Informed and Involved

The NDIS is constantly evolving. Providers who stay up-to-date with policy changes, funding updates, and industry trends are better positioned to reassure clients and adapt their services.

Attending NDIS events, webinars, and local forums not only keeps you informed but also helps you meet other providers and potential referral partners. The more visible you are in the community, the more likely participants are to hear about your business.

Step 5: Work With Plan Managers

Plan Managers are often the link between participants and providers. Many participants prefer using a Plan Manager because it takes the stress out of handling NDIS funding. By building strong relationships with Plan Managers, you increase the chances of being recommended when participants are looking for services.

For example, NDSP Plan Managers offer a provider directory that includes both registered and unregistered providers. This gives you more visibility right where participants are actively searching for support.

Bringing It All Together

Getting clients as an NDIS provider isn’t about doing one big thing, it’s about consistently doing lots of little things that build trust, credibility, and visibility. From networking with Support Coordinators to improving your online presence and showcasing your point of difference, every step helps you grow your reputation as a reliable NDIS company.

If you’re thinking about buying an NDIS business for sale, remember that the real value of that investment comes from the systems in place to keep attracting clients. If you’re already running your own, apply these strategies consistently and watch your client base grow.

At the end of the day, participants want to know they’ll be supported by someone who understands their needs and genuinely cares. If you can show that, you’ll not only find clients you’ll keep them for the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get clients after starting an NDIS company? To grow an NDIS company, focus on building community relationships, strengthening your online presence, and showcasing what makes your services unique. Networking with Support Coordinators, Plan Managers, and other providers can also help attract more clients.

To grow an NDIS company, focus on building community relationships, strengthening your online presence, and showcasing what makes your services unique. Networking with Support Coordinators, Plan Managers, and other providers can also help attract more clients.

Does buying an NDIS business for sale help with getting clients?

Yes. Purchasing an NDIS business for sale often gives you an existing client base, established systems, and a reputation in the community. However, continued growth depends on maintaining trust and actively marketing your services.

What role does online presence play for an NDIS company?

A strong online presence is critical. Most participants and families research providers before making a decision. An NDIS company with a professional website, directory listings, and positive reviews is more likely to attract new clients.

 Are there advantages to choosing established NDIS businesses for sale instead of starting from scratch?

Buying established NDIS businesses for sale provides immediate access to clients, staff, and compliance systems. This can save time and effort compared to starting a new business, though it’s still essential to keep improving services to retain clients.

How can feedback and testimonials help grow my NDIS company?

Sharing testimonials and positive feedback builds trust with potential clients. Whether you run your own NDIS company or have purchased an NDIS business for sale, showcasing success stories reassures participants that your services are reliable and valued.

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