Intro
Service agreements are the legal contracts that set out how NDIS supports are delivered. They protect both participants and providers. In Victoria, a clear agreement helps you understand your rights, responsibilities, and funding limits. This guide explains the key details you need to include, so you can write a robust agreement that meets the latest NDIS standards.
What the Service Agreement Covers and Who It Helps
A service agreement specifies the type of support, the provider, and the conditions of delivery. It is used by participants who require home care, therapy, or other NDIS‑funded services. The agreement helps participants manage expectations and ensures that the support is tailored to individual goals. Providers use it to document the scope of their services and to comply with NDIS quality and safety requirements.
Eligibility and Access Rules for Service Agreements
To create a service agreement, you must first be an approved NDIS participant. The agreement is part of the funding plan and must be agreed upon before the provider can start delivering services. The following rules apply in Victoria:
- The agreement must be signed by both the participant and the registered provider.
- It must be written in plain English or a language the participant can understand.
- Changes to the agreement require a written amendment signed by both parties.
- All agreements must comply with the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits to ensure funding is allocated correctly.
Included and Excluded Elements in a Service Agreement
What is Included
- Clear description of the support type and frequency.
- Provider’s contact details and emergency procedures.
- Participant’s goals and outcomes to be achieved.
- Funding amount, cost per hour, and total hours per month.
- Payment method and billing schedule.
- Conditions for service termination or suspension.
- Review dates and process for making changes.
What is Not Included
- Any services that are not funded by the NDIS plan (e.g., non‑NDIS private care).
- Personal or household expenses that fall outside the agreed support scope.
- Any additional costs that exceed the price limits set by the NDIS.
Funding and Planning Considerations
When drafting an agreement, keep the following funding aspects in mind:
- Use the participant’s plan budget to calculate total hours and cost.
- Confirm that the provider’s price per hour falls within the NDIS price limits.
- Include a clause that allows the participant to claim any unused hours.
- Ensure the agreement reflects any changes in the plan, such as increased or reduced funding.
- Document how the provider will submit invoices for the NDIS payment portal.
How to Request and Activate a Service Agreement
- Contact the provider you wish to use and ask for a draft agreement.
- Review the draft against the list of must‑have details above.
- Discuss any questions with the provider and request amendments if necessary.
- Sign the agreement in the presence of a witness if required.
- Submit the signed agreement to the NDIS payment portal or the provider’s billing system.
- Keep a copy for your records and monitor the agreement during each review period.
Local Context: Service Agreements in Victoria and Nearby Areas
Victoria offers a range of providers who specialise in NDIS service agreements. Whether you live in Belgravia, Chelsea or Pimlico, you can find local support that meets your needs. Many providers in these areas also offer additional resources such as:
- Home care support services that can be bundled into a single agreement.
- Therapy and occupational services that are compliant with the latest pricing arrangements.
- Community participation programmes that can be added to your plan.
For example, you might find a provider in Wyndham that offers tailored home care agreements, or a local provider that specialises in therapy services. If you prefer a broader service package, you can also explore providers that combine multiple supports into one agreement.
FAQs
- What should I check before signing a service agreement?
- Verify that the support details match your plan, the provider’s contact information is correct, and the cost per hour is within the NDIS price limits.
- Can I change the service agreement after it’s signed?
- Yes, any changes must be made in writing and signed by both parties. Amendments should be documented in the agreement.
- What happens if the provider fails to deliver the agreed support?
- You can raise a complaint with the provider and, if unresolved, with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
- Are unused hours automatically refunded?
- Unused hours can be claimed back if the agreement allows it. Check the review clause for details on how unused hours are handled.
- Do I need a lawyer to review my service agreement?
- While not mandatory, it is wise to have a legal professional or a support coordinator review the agreement to ensure it meets all NDIS requirements.
Disclaimer
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.