How to Start an NDIS Day Programme
NDIS day programmes provide structured group activities for participants seeking community engagement, skill-building and respite for families. The setup is capital-intensive but recurring revenue is strong. Day programmes face Certification audit including Module 4 environmental compliance. Here's what starting a day programme actually involves.
The Registration Pathway for Day Programmes
Day programmes face Certification audit (not Verification) including Module 4 (environment) compliance. This means physical site assessment by auditor. All four Practice Standards modules apply. Mandatory registration timing depends on service type but most day programmes will need to be registered by 2027. Audit costs: $4,000-$12,000+ depending on facility size and complexity. Provider Scale's $999 done-for-you package covers day programme registration including environmental compliance documentation.
Setup Costs and Capital Requirements
Day programme setup requires: facility lease and bond ($20K-$60K depending on city), accessibility modifications (ramps, accessible bathrooms, sensory rooms - $20K-$80K), furniture and program equipment ($15K-$40K), kitchen/food handling setup ($10K-$30K if food provided), vehicle for community access ($30K-$60K used), insurance and registration. Total minimum capital: $100K-$280K to open one facility for 15-25 participants. Recurring monthly costs: rent, utilities, food, transport, staff. Plan 6-12 months operational cash buffer.
The Revenue Model - Group Programmes Pay
Day programme pricing varies by support type and group ratio. Group programmes (1:3 to 1:5 staff ratio) bill per participant per hour at lower rates than 1:1 supports. Typical day programme revenue: $80-$120 per participant per day, 5-day weeks. Full programme of 20 participants generates $8K-$12K weekly = $400K-$600K annually. Staff costs (programme coordinator + 4-6 support workers): 50-60% of revenue. Net margin after facility costs: 18-28%. Strong recurring revenue model once tenanted.
Programming and Activity Design
Quality day programmes have structured weekly programmes with rotating activities: skill-building (cooking, computers, communication), community access (excursions, shopping), creative arts, fitness/movement, social activities. Daily programme typically 6 hours (10am-4pm) with breaks. Programmes need to balance: participant goals (per their NDIS plans), participant abilities (group composition matters), staff capability, and facility constraints. Boring or overstructured programmes lose participants quickly. The best programmes feel like community, not service delivery.
Action Items for Aspiring Day Programme Operators
This year (if day programme is your goal): 1) Visit existing day programmes in your area to understand the model. 2) Secure facility before audit - the auditor needs to see the actual space. 3) Build relationships with support coordinators who can refer participants. 4) Design programme around participant goals, not just activity convenience. 5) Plan 6-12 months operational cash buffer. 6) Engage Provider Scale's Compliance Health Check before committing capital. Day programmes are rewarding but operationally demanding - go in with eyes open.