Free NDIS Service Agreement Templates for Support Workers

The Importance of Clear Service Agreements for NDIS Support Workers

Clear and comprehensive service agreements are essential for NDIS support workers to establish trust, set expectations and ensure compliance with NDIS requirements. These agreements outline the roles, responsibilities and services provided, offering clarity and protection for both support workers and participants.

What is an NDIS service agreement?

An NDIS service agreement is a formal document that outlines the arrangement between an NDIS participant and their service provider or support worker. It sets clear expectations by defining the services to be delivered, the terms and conditions of the working relationship and the responsibilities of both parties. Download your Free NDIS Service Agreement Template here.

A typical NDIS service agreement details the participant’s and provider’s contact information, the scope of services, pricing and payment terms, cancellation policies and the dispute resolution process. By covering these elements, the agreement minimises the risk of misunderstandings or conflicts and provides a solid foundation for a professional, supportive relationship.

Not only are service agreements covered under Australian Consumer Law, but they’re also mandatory for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) supports under the NDIS. While other supports don’t require a service agreement, the NDIA recommends having a written service agreement in place to ensure clarity and compliance with NDIS Practice Standards.

Why support workers need service agreements

NDIS service agreements are an important safeguard that helps to protect service workers and NDIS participants. By detailing the services provided and terms, service agreements help to ensure clarity in expectations and obligations.

A service agreement clearly outlines support workers’ roles, responsibilities and the scope of services they’re expected to deliver. This clarity helps avoid confusion and ensures that participants’ expectations align with the services the support worker can provide. It also establishes a written record of agreed-upon terms, which can be crucial if disputes arise.

Key elements of an effective service agreement

When it comes to drafting an NDIS service agreement, it’s important to include the following details:

• Participant and provider details: Include the full names, contact details and NDIS participant number. For support workers, list business or individual details, including ABN (if applicable), to clearly identify both parties.
• Scope of services: Clearly define the services provided, including frequency, duration and specific tasks. This section ensures the participant knows what to expect and helps the worker deliver services effectively.
• Pricing and payment terms: Detail the cost of services, referencing the NDIS Price Guide where applicable. Specify payment methods, invoicing procedures and payment timing to avoid confusion.
• Cancellation and notice periods: Include policies for cancellations, late changes and no-shows, outlining any applicable fees. Align these terms with NDIS rules and ensure fairness to both parties.
• Rights and responsibilities: Outline the rights and obligations of the participant and the provider. This can include points like maintaining confidentiality, respecting personal boundaries and adhering to agreed schedules.
• Dispute resolution process: Provide a step-by-step process for resolving disputes, emphasising open communication. Include escalation options, such as involving the NDIS Commission if necessary.
• Agreement duration and review: Specify the start and end dates of the agreement or state if it’s ongoing. Include provisions for periodic reviews to accommodate changes in needs, services or funding.
• Termination process: Clearly define how either party can end the agreement, including notice periods and conditions for termination.

Where to find free NDIS service agreement templates

A reliable, free NDIS service agreement template can help you save time, ensure clear terms and meet NDIS requirements. At CareMaster, we’ve created our own NDIS support worker service agreement template that you can use to craft your own written service agreement. This template has been designed to be easily customised to suit your specific needs. Download now.

For further information, the official NDIS website provides a detailed overview of service agreements for both participants and providers. The site includes several resources to help clients understand the purpose of service agreements and assist NDIS service providers in crafting their own agreements.

Tips for customising a service agreement

When it comes to crafting your own service agreement, it’s essential to ensure it aligns with your services and complies with NDIS requirements while meeting the unique needs of each participant.

Before drafting or customising the agreement, have a detailed discussion with each participant to understand their goals, preferences and expectations. This helps ensure the agreement reflects their specific support requirements.

Clearly outline the specific services you will provide, including the frequency, duration and any special considerations. Ensure this section is personalised to the participant’s plan and goals.

It’s important to write your service agreement in simple, client-friendly language. It can also help to provide the agreement in accessible formats, like large print, braille or easy read versions, to suit the participant’s needs. Adding images and other visuals can help to support understanding.

If you’re unsure about certain clauses, consult a legal or compliance professional to ensure the agreement complies with NDIS regulations and protects both parties’ rights.

How to use and implement service agreements

Having a service agreement in place is one thing, but it’s just as important to implement your agreement effectively. Take the time to introduce your service agreement during the onboarding process and step your client through each section of the agreement. This helps to ensure your clients understand the services, pricing, cancellation policy and other key elements while avoiding any potential misunderstandings.

Encourage questions from your client, their carers or their family and be open to reasonable adjustments based on their. Once both parties are happy with the agreement, have the participant and support worker (or service provider representative) sign the document. Provide a copy to the participant and ensure all provider copies are stored in a secure, organised system.

Set periodic check-ins to review the agreement with the participant, especially if their goals, services, or NDIS funding change.

‍