21/07/2026
Anyone else struggling with all the proposed NDIS changes and/or operating a small business?
I’m not one to post about my struggles but I feel the stigma and ugly truth about owning a small business needs to be spoken about.
Running an NDIS business with the constant changes is starting to break me.
Behind the smiling photos and the proud milestones we share, the reality of running an NDIS business with integrity is not only suffocating, but also isolating.
There is this stereotype driven by the media that NDIS owners are “wealthy”.. The media paints a picture of luxury. The reality is an absolute grind!!!!
- Squeezed Margins: Strict price caps mean rising inflation, compliance costs, and wages eat up every dollar.
- Payroll Roulette: Staff get paid on time, every single time. But while we wait weeks for unpaid invoices to clear, owners play financial Tetris to fund payroll.
- The 60-Hour Week: Most of us aren't getting rich. We are exhausting ourselves and pouring personal savings back into the business just to keep the doors open.
Please don't let a few sensationalised headlines define those of us who are drowning just to do the right thing by our participants!
The weight of trying to keep this business afloat has become too heavy to carry alone. Every single day is a battle against things that have absolutely nothing to do with the actual care we provide… but rather:
- Uncertainty around our current business model and with the ever changing legislations, how do we adapt?
- Chasing constant unpaid invoices just to try and cover payroll, while the financial stress keeps me awake every single night.
- Suffocating administrative fatigue from endless, compliance documentation that never seems to end.
- The endless cycle of staffing struggles, trying to recruit people that share my morals, values and compassion for others, as well as trying to support a team when the industry itself is so burnt out.
The systemic pressure is relentless!
I started this business to make a genuine difference in people's lives, but lately, the system feels designed to drain every drop of energy, passion, and resource I have left.
** I want to reassure our current participants and families: my dedication to you hasn't changed, and your services and supports remain completely secure.
I acknowledge and sincerely apologise for not reaching out as much as I usually would. I cannot pour from an empty cup anymore, and right now, my cup is completely dry.
I work relentlessly coordinating everything behind the scenes.
To the other providers out there drowning in silence: I see you. I am right there with you. I don't have an inspiring takeaway or a positive spin for today.
I'm just incredibly tired. - Kristy
