Verdict
In-person audits are thorough but expensive. Remote is cheaper and faster. NDIS Commission decides — most home-based providers get remote, facility-based get in-person.
NDIS Comparison
In-Person Site Visit vs Remote Audit (Desk Review Only)
In-person audits are thorough but expensive. Remote is cheaper and faster. NDIS Commission decides — most home-based providers get remote, facility-based get in-person.
In-Person Site Visit
Best for: High-risk service types (SIL, SDA, behaviour support) needing onsite verification
Pros
- Comprehensive — auditor observes environment, staff interactions, participant safety
Cons
- High cost ($4K-$12K)
- Auditor travel costs for regional providers
- Participant disruption (site visit can be stressful)
- Longer timeline (Stage 1 + Stage 2)
Remote Audit (Desk Review Only)
Best for: Lower-risk service types (home-based personal care, allied health)
Pros
- Lower cost ($1.5K-$3K)
- Faster turnaround (desk review 2-4 weeks)
- Less participant disruption
- Easier for regional providers (no travel required)
Cons
- Limited to document review
- Can't observe real service delivery
- Harder to verify physical environment compliance
- Less detailed feedback