Can I Change NDIS Providers?

You have choice over who provides your funded supports, within NDIS rules and your plan. Your funding management type affects your options:

• Self-managed: You can generally use registered or unregistered providers.
• Plan-managed: You can generally use registered or unregistered providers.
• NDIA-managed: You must use registered providers.

Some supports need registered providers regardless of how you manage funding. These include specialist disability accommodation (SDA) and specialist behaviour supports.

SIL has extra registration rules, including a transition pathway for some providers. Check the new provider's status with your my NDIS contact before booking. See the NDIS guidance on finding providers.

You may need different appointment times, better communication or a worker who understands your needs. Example: A therapist's hours may no longer suit your school or work routine.

If you feel safe doing so, explain what needs to change. You could ask for another worker at the same agency. A support coordinator, nominee or trusted person can help you have that conversation.

You can also decide to leave. You do not have to make a complaint first.

If you feel unsafe, seek help rather than waiting for the next appointment.

Use this checklist to plan a smooth handover:

1. Check your agreement. Read the end date, notice period, cancellation terms and any fees. Ask for a copy if needed.
2. Find a new provider. Check their registration if required, availability, costs and ability to meet your needs.
3. Plan the handover. Try to agree on a new start date before your old support stops.
4. Give written notice. State when you want support to end. Ask for written confirmation and details of any final charges.
5. Sort out bookings and records. Cancel future sessions, ask for records needed for care, and keep copies of messages.
6. Tell the right people. Inform your support coordinator and plan manager, if you have them. Check any NDIS portal updates.

In the older myplace system, an existing service booking may need to end. In the newer my NDIS system, you may need to update a my provider relationship. The NDIS change-provider guide explains both.

Check your own NDIS service agreement notice period rather than assuming a standard number of days. The NDIA says your agreement sets out the notice needed. Ask about unclear terms.

Notice is like giving someone time to arrange a handover. It does not remove your right to choose your supports.

A service agreement sets out your agreed supports, costs and responsibilities. The October 2026 NDIA resources say agreements are mandatory for SDA and strongly encouraged for other supports, particularly SIL. The template is optional.

Our service agreement resources guide explains the tools. An agreement cannot remove your consumer rights or NDIS Code of Conduct protections.

Are SIL and SDA exits different?

Yes. SIL pays for daily living support, while SDA is specialist housing, not the care delivered there. Changing either may affect your care, home or other people living there. SDA may also involve separate tenancy terms.

Get independent advice about any terms you do not understand.

The NDIS has special rules for certain SIL claims after an unexpected exit. Simply choosing another provider does not qualify for that unplanned-exit payment. Read the NDIA's SIL exit guidance.

A program of support is an optional agreement for certain group-based supports. The NDIA says participants can leave at no cost by giving up to two weeks' notice.

This is a specific rule, not a general limit for every agreement. See the NDIS program of support update.

Ending an agreement and cancelling one appointment are different things. A late cancellation may be claimable only when the agreement and applicable NDIS claiming conditions allow it.

The NDIS pricing page lists the 2026-27 pricing schedule. The support catalogue includes short-notice claim information.

Ask for a final itemised invoice. Check what was delivered, dates and any cancellation charges. If a charge looks wrong, ask for the rule and agreement term used.

Tell your plan manager if you have one.

Changing providers does not increase your approved budget. Think of it as the same wallet, even with a different provider. Check remaining funds and funding periods before booking new supports.

You can change providers without making a complaint. If you are worried about quality or safety, you can contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission or call 1800 035 544.

You can speak with your provider first if you feel comfortable. In an emergency, call 000.

Can my provider refuse to let me leave?

You have a general right to choose providers. However, agreed notice and payment terms may still matter. Ask for written reasons if a provider disputes your request.

Must the new support fit my current plan?

Yes. You can choose providers within your approved funding. Ask your my NDIS contact if your needs have changed.

Can I change just one support worker?

You can ask the agency whether another suitable worker is available. A replacement is not guaranteed.

Do I need to tell the NDIA?

Sometimes. Your provider records may need updating, especially for certain home and living or other recorded supports. Ask your my NDIS contact which steps apply.

If you meant changing plan managers, that is different. See Switching NDIS Plan Managers.

For more on budgets, read Understanding Your NDIS Plan.