The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released a report indicating that participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are facing exploitation from providers engaging in deceptive advertising and other unlawful behaviors. These practices, while not universal, have raised significant concerns due to the volume and nature of complaints received.

Key issues identified by the ACCC include false advertising, failure to honor consumer guarantees, unclear contracts, and providers charging for services not rendered. The report also highlights misleading claims regarding Specialist Disability Accommodation and the impact of scams on First Nations NDIS participants.

ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe emphasized the harmful effects of such conduct, which can lead to financial loss and jeopardize the safety and well-being of individuals with disabilities. The ACCC is committed to working with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to protect participants and hold non-compliant providers accountable.

Since 2024, the ACCC has prioritized compliance with the Australian Consumer Law among NDIS providers, taking legal action against those who breach these laws. Notable cases include a provider facing legal proceedings and others, like Bedshed and Thermomix, paying fines for misleading claims. Mable Technologies has also agreed to rectify unfair contract terms.

The ACCC is actively monitoring NDIS providers and collaborating with state and territory consumer protection agencies to ensure compliance. They plan to publish a summary of the report and provide resources for both participants and providers to raise awareness about consumer rights.