Allied Match guide
NDIS therapy service agreements explained
A service agreement records what support will be delivered, what it costs and how either party can change or end the arrangement.
Published 21 September 2026 · 7 minute read
Quick answer
Quick answer
An NDIS service agreement is an agreement between a participant and provider about the supports they will deliver and how. It should make the service, price, payment, cancellations, travel, changes and ending arrangements understandable before therapy begins. You can ask questions and suggest changes before signing.
What the agreement should tell you
The NDIS describes a service agreement as a signed agreement between a participant and provider. Its purpose is to give both sides the same expectations about what will be delivered and how.
A clear therapy agreement names the support, appointment length and location, price, payment method, cancellation terms, travel arrangements, privacy and information-sharing approach, review process and how either side can make changes or end the service.
Read the practical clauses
Do not focus only on the hourly rate. Check the parts that can create unexpected claims or make it hard to leave.
- Notice required to cancel an appointment
- Notice required to end the agreement
- Conditions for claiming travel or non-face-to-face work
- Reports, phone calls and liaison that may be billed
- How prices can change and how consent is recorded
- How complaints, records and emergencies are handled
You can ask for changes
A provider may offer a standard template, but you can ask for terms to be explained and suggest changes. The NDIS says the provider should support you to understand the agreement, including using a language, communication method and terms you understand.
Do not sign a blank or unclear document. Keep a copy of the final version and any later written changes. If a new price is proposed, the participant must agree before the change is made.
When to make a new agreement
The NDIS recommends a new agreement when you start with a new provider. A new plan, changed goals or a different support arrangement are also sensible times to review what is written rather than allowing an old agreement to continue by assumption.
Common questions
Must every NDIS service agreement be written?
Written agreements are strongly useful and recommended because they record what was agreed. Some supports have specific requirements; ask the NDIA or provider if you are unsure.
Can I change a provider’s standard agreement?
You can suggest changes and ask for clarification before agreeing. Both parties need a workable shared agreement.
Should I receive a copy?
Yes. Keep the signed agreement and any written variations so you can check prices, notice periods and responsibilities later.
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