How do you change NDIS providers?
Short answer
To change NDIS providers, talk to your current provider, check your service agreement for the notice period, find and agree terms with a new provider, give notice and settle payments, then update your service bookings or portal relationships. Starting with your new provider before your old one ends helps avoid gaps.
Can you change NDIS providers whenever you want?
Yes. You choose your providers, and you can change them at any time. You do not need the NDIA's permission or a plan review to switch.
People change providers for many reasons. You might be moving house, want a worker who speaks your language, need different shifts or simply feel the current fit is not right.
Whatever the reason, it is your decision. The main thing to manage is timing, so your supports keep running while you move across.
What are the steps to change NDIS providers?
The NDIS sets out five steps for changing providers (ndis.gov.au, May 2026).
- Talk to your current provider. Let them know you are thinking of changing. Sometimes a problem can be fixed, and if not, an early conversation makes the handover smoother.
- Check your service agreement. Look for the notice period and any cancellation terms, so you know how much warning you need to give.
- Find and agree with a new provider. Meet them, ask questions and sign a new service agreement that sets out your supports, times and costs.
- Give notice and settle payments. Tell your current provider in writing when your last service will be, and make sure any outstanding invoices are paid.
- Update bookings or portal relationships. End or adjust service bookings with your old provider and set up what is needed for your new one, depending on how your plan is managed.
If you are new to how plans work, our guide on what the NDIS is covers the basics.
How do notice periods work?
A notice period is the amount of warning your service agreement says you must give before ending supports. It is set out in the agreement you signed.
For example, an agreement might ask for 14 days' written notice. During that time, your current provider keeps delivering supports and you pay for them as usual.
Some things to look for in your agreement:
- How much notice you need to give, and whether it must be in writing.
- Who you send the notice to.
- Any short notice cancellation rules for booked shifts.
- What happens to any unused hours or prepaid amounts.
If you cannot find your agreement, ask your current provider for a copy. You are entitled to see it.
If your provider agrees, you can sometimes end supports sooner than the notice period. Ask politely and get any agreement in writing, so both sides are clear about the final date.
How can you avoid a gap in your supports?
The simplest way to avoid a gap is to confirm your new provider's start date before you give notice to your current one.
Gaps can be hard, especially if you rely on help with showering, meals or medication prompts. A few days without support can affect your health and routine.
Ways to keep supports running:
- Sign your new service agreement first, then give notice.
- Line up your last shift with the old provider and your first shift with the new one.
- Ask for a short overlap if you need time to get to know your new worker.
- Keep a written list of your daily routine so the new worker can follow it from day one.
Consistency matters a lot in disability support. Our post on why consistency matters explains why.
Who can help you change providers?
Your support coordinator or plan manager can help you change providers if you have one. Family members, friends or an advocate can also help you through the process.
A support coordinator can help you find new providers and manage the timing. A plan manager can help with service bookings and settling final invoices.
If you do not have either, you can still change providers yourself. Many people do, and a good new provider will walk you through what is needed.
If you manage your own plan, you will handle invoices and payments directly. Keep copies of your final invoices and your notice letter in case questions come up later.
If you feel a provider is not treating you fairly during the change, you can raise it with them first, then with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission if needed.
What should you tell a new provider?
Tell your new provider what supports you need, when you need them and what has worked well or badly in the past. The more they know, the better the match.
Useful things to share:
- Your NDIS goals and the supports in your plan you want to use.
- Days, times and how many hours you usually need.
- Your daily routine, including personal care steps and preferences.
- Language, cultural or faith needs.
- Anything about past workers that you liked or did not like.
- Any risks, health needs or behaviours a worker should understand.
Our checklist of questions to ask a support worker can help you prepare for your first meeting.
How does Enrichment Care help when you switch?
Enrichment Care makes switching straightforward by helping with the transition, sending worker profiles for you to choose from and arranging a meet and greet before supports start.
We talk with you about your needs, then match you with workers based on language, culture, personality, interests and care needs. You choose the worker you feel comfortable with.
We also help you set up your service agreement and line up start dates, so your new supports begin when your old ones end. To talk about changing, call 1300 543 123 or visit our contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a plan review to change providers?
No. Your plan funds supports, and you choose who delivers them. You can change providers within your current plan. A plan review is only needed if your goals or the funding itself need to change.
Will my old provider know why I am leaving?
Only if you choose to tell them. You are not required to explain your decision. Some people share feedback because it helps the provider improve, but it is entirely up to you.
Can I keep one provider and add another?
Yes. Many people use more than one provider, for example one for cleaning and another for personal care. Just make sure your budget can cover both and that service bookings are set up correctly.
What if my provider will not release me before the notice period ends?
Your provider can hold you to the notice period in your agreement, but you can still talk with them about ending sooner. If you are worried about how you are being treated, you can contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
This article is general information, not advice about your plan. NDIS rules and price limits change, so check ndis.gov.au or talk to your NDIS contact for current details. Last reviewed 9 July 2026.
