My first experience with the NDIS wasn’t as a business owner, it was as a mum. Two of my four children have disabilities and are participants in the NDIS, so I was thrown headfirst into the system. And let me tell you, it wasn’t smooth sailing.
Let me introduce myself: I’m Vanessa Norman, mum to four incredible kids, passionate traveller, astrology enthusiast, human design explorer, crystal collector, and essential oil aficionado. Oh, and I’m also a former one woman band who turned a small NDIS business into a thriving multi-million dollar operation. My story is one of hard work, heart, and a sprinkle of stardust, and I’m here to share it with you.
There were delays, communication breakdowns, and a general lack of care from some providers. It was exhausting, frustrating, and at times, heartbreaking. I kept thinking, Surely this can be done better? That thought sparked a fire in me, a determination to make things better for families like mine.
In May 2019, I took the leap and started my own NDIS business.
In those early days, it was just me, juggling client care, admin, and my kids (often all at once). Picture me taking calls while prepping dinner or sending emails with a baby on my hip. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was driven by passion.
Within four months, I hired my first team member. By eight months, my team had grown to four, and I realised it was time to come off the floor and focus on managing the business full time. It was bittersweet stepping away from direct care, but I knew it was necessary to grow the business and make an even bigger impact.
Fast forward to my third year in business, and my one-woman show had turned into a thriving operation. I had a team of 50 staff, including nurses, support workers and cleaners, and we offered a wide range of services, including:
- Community access
- Personal care
- Palliative care in the home
- Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- Wheelchair transport
- Group activities
- Cleaning services
That year, we generated $4 million in revenue. But more importantly, we made a real difference in people’s lives. I’ll never forget moments like taking a palliative client to the beach for their final wish or organising Christmas presents for over 200 participants. Those are the memories that make the hard work worth it.
Let’s be honest, building the business wasn’t easy. I’ve made mistakes, taken risks, and spent sleepless nights navigating the complexities of running an NDIS business. The audit and registration process alone felt like climbing Everest!
But with every challenge came growth. I learned how to streamline operations, build a strong team and create systems that worked. I also learnt that running an NDIS business isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about heart. It’s about seeing a participant with severe anxiety go from being housebound to confidently catching a bus. It’s about giving mums a chance to re-enter the workforce and helping them grow from cleaners to qualified support workers.
And yes, it’s also about balancing all of this while being a mum to four, managing school runs, sports days, and family life. Add in my love for astrology, crystals and essential oils and you’ve got a picture of my beautifully chaotic life.
Now, six years after starting my NDIS business, I’ve shifted my focus to helping other NDIS business owners achieve their own breakthroughs. I’ve developed a 7-Stage Framework that breaks down everything I’ve learnt into actionable steps.
This is where my Bestie in Business Membership comes in. It’s a dynamic coaching program designed to help small- to medium-sized NDIS business owners grow and thrive, just like I did.
For $497 a month, members gain access to:
- Fortnightly live group coaching sessions tailored to tackle your unique challenges
- Fortnightly workshops packed with actionable strategies and insights
- Monthly challenges to inspire growth and keep you motivated
- Virtual co-working sessions to stay accountable and focused
- Exclusive resources, strategies, and ongoing support
The Bestie in Business Membership isn’t just a program; it’s a community. Here, you’re not just a business owner; you’re part of a network of like-minded providers who truly understand the challenges and joys of the NDIS sector. Together, we’re building businesses that make a real difference.
Running an NDIS business isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s late nights, unpaid hours, and carrying the mental load of caring for participants, staff and your own family. But it’s also deeply rewarding.
It’s seeing progress in participants’ lives. It’s knowing you’re making a difference in your community. And it’s creating a legacy of care, compassion, and growth.
That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing what I’ve learned. Whether it’s through my membership program, one-on-one coaching or workshops, I want to help you navigate the challenges and build a business that makes an impact.
As I continue my journey, my mission is clear: to empower NDIS business owners with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed. Because if I can do it, with four kids, sleepless nights, and a whole lot of trial and error, you can too!
So, here’s to building businesses that are participant-focused, resilient, and filled with heart. Here’s to creating your own breakthrough.
If you’re ready to take your NDIS business to the next level, I’d love to help. Join my Bestie in Business Membership to get started. Let’s grow your business together!