Not happy with your current NDIS provider? You are not alone — and you have every right to switch. The NDIS is built on participant choice and control. You can change providers at any time, for any reason. Here is exactly how to do it.
You Have the Right to Switch
Many participants stay with a provider that is not serving them well because they do not realise switching is straightforward. The NDIS explicitly protects your right to choose and change providers. A good provider will never make you feel guilty for leaving.
Common Reasons People Switch NDIS Providers
- Inconsistent or unreliable support workers
- Poor communication from the organisation
- Moving to Ballarat from another region
- Wanting a more local provider who knows the community
- Needing additional registration groups the current provider does not hold
- Feeling like a number rather than a person
- Better rates or more flexible scheduling elsewhere
Step 1: Review Your Service Agreement
Check your current service agreement for the notice period required to end the arrangement. Most providers require between 2 and 4 weeks notice in writing. Some agreements may have longer notice periods, so read carefully.
Step 2: Find Your New Provider First
Before giving notice, make sure your new provider is ready to take you on. Contact them, discuss your needs, and confirm they can start within your required timeframe. This avoids any gap in your supports.
If you are in Ballarat, contact Gentle Grid to discuss availability before giving notice to your current provider. We will let you know exactly when we can start.
Step 3: Give Written Notice
Send your current provider a written notice (email is fine) stating that you are ending your service agreement, and the date your supports will cease. Keep a copy for your records.
You do not need to give a reason, though you can if you wish.
Step 4: Update Your Plan in the NDIS Portal
If you are agency managed, you will need to update your provider connections in the myplace portal — or ask your new provider to help you do this. Your new provider will connect themselves to your plan before they can claim from your funding.
Step 5: Sign a New Service Agreement
Your new provider will prepare a Service Agreement outlining the supports they will deliver, the cost, and the terms. Read it carefully before signing.
What About My Funding?
Your NDIS funding stays with you — it does not belong to your provider. Switching providers does not affect your plan budget, and your new provider simply starts claiming against your existing plan.
Can My Provider Refuse to Let Me Leave?
No. A provider cannot legally stop you from leaving. They must respect your notice period (as per the agreement), but they cannot hold you beyond that. If you are experiencing difficulty, contact the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544.
Making the Switch to Gentle Grid
Gentle Grid makes switching easy. We handle most of the transition administration, give you a dedicated contact from day one, and ensure there is no gap in your care. We hold 14 NDIS registration groups and our entire team is based locally in Ballarat.
Get in touch today or call (03) 9961 6007 — we will talk you through the process and make sure the transition is smooth.