Expert Guide to NDIS Fraud and Scam Prevention

True community integration and inclusion are built on a foundation of safety and trust. For NDIS participants and their families in Perth, navigating the path toward independence requires more than just finding the right NDIS support; it requires the knowledge to protect one’s journey from those who seek to exploit the system. Recently, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and the ACCC have highlighted an increase in sophisticated attempts to compromise NDIS funding. Understanding how to identify and report scams is not just an administrative task—it is a vital part of maintaining choice and control over your life.


Understanding NDIS Scams and Fraud

An NDIS scam is any attempt to dishonestly obtain money or personal information by posing as an official entity or a legitimate provider. NDIS fraud can take many forms, from overcharging for services that were never delivered to "phoenixing" companies that disappear once funds are received. Recent reporting from April 2026 indicates that organised crime groups have even attempted to infiltrate the scheme, making it more important than ever for participants to remain vigilant. These activities don’t just drain individual budgets; they undermine the integrity of the entire scheme, potentially impacting NDIS eligibility and the availability of future resources for the whole community.


Identifying Common Tactics

Scammers often rely on urgency or fear to bypass your natural caution. The most common methods targeting participants today include:

  • Phishing Scams: These often arrive as phishing emails or SMS messages designed to look like they are from the NDIA, "myGov," or a bank. They may claim there is an issue with your NDIS funding and provide a link to a fake login page to steal your credentials.
  • Phone Scams: You may receive a call from someone claiming to be a "government representative" asking for your NDIS number or bank details to "verify" your account. Legitimate agencies will never ask for your password or banking PIN over the phone.
  • Online Scams: These can involve fake advertisements for disability equipment or services on social media. If a deal seems too good to be true, or if a provider pressures you to sign a service agreement without a proper cooling-off period, it is a significant red flag.


How to Verify Provider Legitimacy

Building a circle of NDIS support should be a collaborative and transparent process. To ensure you are partnering with a legitimate organisation:


  1. Check the NDIS Provider Register: The NDIA maintains a searchable database of registered providers who must meet strict quality and safety standards.
  2. Request a Service Agreement: Legitimate providers will always provide a clear, written agreement outlining costs, services, and cancellation policies before work begins.
  3. Seek Local Feedback: Within the Perth community, word-of-mouth and reviews from other participants are invaluable. A provider with deep roots in Western Australia will usually have a verifiable history of community involvement.


Keeping Your Private Information Safe

Data security is a person-centred priority. Your NDIS number, bank details, and medical history are sensitive. To keep them safe, ensure you use strong, unique passwords for your myGov account and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Be cautious about sharing your NDIS plan or budget details on public social media groups. If you receive email scams that look suspicious, do not click any links; instead, navigate directly to the official NDIS website through your browser.


Official Channels to Report Scams

If you suspect you have been targeted by online scams or have encountered a provider acting dishonestly, taking swift action is essential. You can lodge a fraud report through the following official channels:

  • NDIS Fraud Reporting and Scams Helpline: Call 1800 650 717.
  • Official Fraud Reporting Email: You can email the dedicated unit at fraudreporting@ndis.gov.au.
  • Scamwatch: Operated by the ACCC, this platform allows you to report scams of all types to help warn the broader Australian public.
  • The NDIS Commission: If the issue involves a provider’s conduct or quality of care, a complaint can be lodged directly via 1800 035 544.


Moving Forward with Clarity and Safety

At Plan and Grow, we believe that empowerment comes from clarity. As a leading disability support services provider based in Perth, Western Australia, our approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and a commitment to the safety of every participant we partner with. We recognise that the NDIS can be complex, and our role is to act as a knowledgeable partner, helping you navigate these challenges with confidence.


Taking your NDIS journey to the next level means having the peace of mind that your funding is secure and your supports are genuine. Whether you are looking for more information on safeguarding your plan or exploring how to better integrate into your local community, we are here to provide actionable insights and collaborative support.


Discover more practical guides and community stories at our resource hub, or connect with our Perth team today to discuss how we can support your goals in a safe, inclusive, and professional environment. Together, we can ensure the NDIS remains a secure platform for your independence.