NDIS service agreements: costs, terms and questions to ask

An NDIS service agreement sets out the practical terms of your relationship with a provider, including the support to be delivered, its cost and how changes will be handled. Before support starts, it helps to understand exactly what you have agreed to and which questions still need an answer.

The articles in this section explain how to prepare for a service agreement conversation, what to look for in the paperwork and how to keep your preferences part of the discussion. They are useful whether you are starting a service, reviewing an existing arrangement or helping someone understand their options.

Ask the provider to walk through anything that is unclear. Check the services, frequency, prices and any additional charges. Talk about cancellations, notice periods, communication and what happens if the provider cannot deliver an agreed support. Request a format you can use, and give yourself time to consider the details.

If you are supporting a family member, help them ask questions and express their wishes. Do not assume that being involved in someone's care automatically authorises you to make an agreement for them. Clarify who has authority to act and what assistance the participant wants with the decision.

The NDIA recommends service agreements and requires them for some supports. The requirements depend on the service, so check current guidance rather than treating every arrangement as identical. A provider's agreement also does not make an otherwise ineligible cost payable from an NDIS plan.

Keep a copy of the agreement and any changes you make together. If an invoice or service differs from what you expected, those records can help you explain the question clearly.

Use these guides to prepare a conversation, compare terms and decide what you need clarified before starting. Understanding an agreement is part of staying informed about the support you receive and the costs you are accepting.