NDIS Cancellation Policy: What It Means for You as a Participant
A plain-English NDIS cancellation policy participant guide: the notice rule, what a provider can charge, how to cancel properly and how to dispute a charge.
How provider cancellation charges actually work
What counts as a 'short notice' cancellation
How much can a provider charge?
The conditions a provider must meet before charging you
A real-life example
When you cancel: giving enough notice
What to check in your service agreement before you sign
How to cancel the right way (step by step)
When you should not be charged
If you think a charge is wrong
How the NDIS reforms affect cancellations
Frequently asked questions
Can a provider charge me if I cancel because I'm sick?
Yes, they can — being unwell does not automatically remove a short notice charge under the NDIS rules. But many providers will waive it if your service agreement has an exceptions clause for illness, or if you ask. Tell them as early as you can and put it in writing.
How much notice do I have to give to avoid a cancellation charge?
As of 2026 the general rule is at least 7 clear days' notice — full days not counting the day you tell them or the appointment day. This notice period has changed before, so confirm the current figure on ndis.gov.au or with your provider.
Does a cancellation charge come out of my own money or my NDIS plan?
It comes from your NDIS plan budget, the same way a normal service would. If you are agency- or plan-managed it is claimed for you; if you are self-managed you pay the invoice and claim it back. Either way, the funding is used up, so late cancellations reduce what is left for real supports.
What if I gave plenty of notice but was still charged?
Ask the provider in writing to explain the charge and to show the service-agreement clause it relies on. Share your dated message proving when you cancelled. If it is not fixed, use their complaints process, then contact the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544 or the NDIA on 1800 800 110.
Can the provider charge me if they cancelled the appointment?
No. Cancellation charges are for when you cancel late or do not attend, not when the provider cancels on you. A fair service agreement will say the provider does not charge you when they are the one who cancels.