NDIS Advertising Rules: What Providers Can and Can't Say
NDIS advertising rules for providers: what you can and can't say, testimonial and consent limits, conflict-of-interest disclosure and how to stay compliant.
The short version: honesty, consent, no false claims
Who the rules apply to
What you cannot say or do
What you can say
Testimonials and reviews: the honest reality
Photos, stories and participant privacy
Conflict of interest and referrals
Cold contact, inducements and gifts
Using the NDIS name and logo
How this plays out: a worked example
Why the rules are tightening now
Your compliance checklist and next step
Frequently asked questions
Do NDIS advertising rules apply if I'm not a registered provider?
Yes. The NDIS Code of Conduct applies to all providers and workers, registered or not, so the core honesty, consent and no-misrepresentation obligations still bind you. Registration adds the Practice Standards and audit on top, but being unregistered does not exempt your advertising from Commission scrutiny.
Can I use participant testimonials or reviews in my marketing?
You can, if they are genuine, consented, unedited in meaning and not paid for or incentivised. Be cautious asking current participants who depend on you, since they may feel pressured; testimonials from family, coordinators or referrers carry less risk. Never write, buy or selectively delete reviews, as that is misleading conduct under consumer law.
Can I say my service is "NDIS approved" or use the NDIS logo?
No to "NDIS approved" or "NDIS endorsed" — those imply an endorsement the NDIA does not give. You can state factually that you deliver NDIS-funded supports. Logo and registered-provider mark use is restricted to current registered providers under the Commission's conditions, so confirm permitted use at ndiscommission.gov.au before adding any mark.
Is it against the rules to offer a referral bonus or gift card?
Offering gifts, cash or inducements to refer participants or to switch providers creates a conflict of interest and can breach the Code of Conduct by distorting free and informed choice. Build referrals on genuine reputation and clear communication instead. Reasonable service inclusions that are part of the support itself differ from a bribe to sign up.
What happens if my advertising breaches the rules?
A participant, worker or competitor can complain to the NDIS Commission, which can investigate, issue compliance or infringement notices, impose conditions, and in serious cases suspend or revoke registration. Consumer regulators can also act on misleading claims. With enforcement powers expanding through 2026-27, the practical risk of an inaccurate ad is rising.