How to cancel your SolidWorks subscription in australia
Why you might cancel SolidWorks and what to expect
SolidWorks is a professional 3D CAD platform used by engineers, designers and product teams to create, model and collaborate on complex digital designs. In Australia, the service operates through multiple delivery channels: cloud-connected 3DEXPERIENCE named-user subscriptions, traditional desktop-installed licences with annual renewal terms, and reseller-managed plans priced in Australian dollars. Your subscription automatically renews each year unless you actively cancel it before the renewal date.
You might be considering cancellation because a project has concluded, your team has downsized, or you have identified a more cost-effective design tool. Others cancel after discovering an automatic renewal charge arrived without adequate notice. Whatever your reason, understanding your cancellation window, your legal rights and the specific process that applies to your purchase method will ensure a smooth exit. At Yafee, we specialise in helping Australian consumers navigate software cancellations like this one, and we know the common obstacles you will face.
When australians typically cancel SolidWorks
Cancellation often occurs at natural project endpoints or when budget constraints force a reassessment of software spending. Some users cancel after discovering that SolidWorks has charged for automatic renewal without explicit prior warning. Others find that a competitor tool better suits their workflow or offers superior value. The timing of your cancellation determines whether you qualify for a refund and whether you can avoid the next renewal charge.
The annual cost and automatic renewal cycle
A single-user 3DEXPERIENCE Standard subscription typically costs around A$5,424 per year through Australian resellers-a significant annual commitment. Quarterly billing plans also exist and charge approximately A$1,356 per quarter. Your subscription renews automatically on the anniversary of your purchase date unless you submit a cancellation request before that date arrives. This automatic renewal mechanism is the reason many Australian users face unexpected charges; they assume cancellation happens manually rather than understanding that inaction results in continued billing.
Your consumer rights under australian law
Australian Consumer Law grants you specific protections when purchasing subscriptions and digital services, and these rights form the foundation of your cancellation entitlements.
The 14-day cooling-off period and how it applies
Under the Australian Consumer Law, you have the right to cancel a subscription within 14 days of purchase if the service has not been substantially performed. This cooling-off period gives you a genuine opportunity to assess whether the product meets your needs and expectations. However, this protection does not apply if you specifically requested early supply of the service before the 14-day period elapsed. Most professional software vendors, including SolidWorks resellers, will require you to acknowledge this request during checkout-which removes your cooling-off protection once you have accessed the licence.
Consequently, if you purchased SolidWorks and immediately downloaded or accessed the software, you likely waived your cooling-off right at the point of purchase. This is a common obstacle; Yafee recommends reviewing your purchase confirmation email to establish whether you explicitly agreed to early supply before the 14-day period.
Refund eligibility and what the law guarantees
Under the Australian Consumer Law, goods and services must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose and as described in the vendor's advertising. If SolidWorks fails to perform as advertised or cannot be used for the purposes for which you purchased it, you have grounds to demand a refund regardless of any vendor refund policy. Document any failures or misrepresentations immediately-screenshots, error logs and copies of support correspondence strengthen your legal position.
For cancellations outside the 14-day window or after you have accessed the service, refund eligibility depends on the vendor's public refund policy and any terms imposed by your reseller. SolidWorks publicly lists a 15-day money-back window for new purchases, but this is narrower than the legal cooling-off period and may not apply to purchases made through a reseller under different contract terms.
Your legal position: You have the right to cancel within 14 days of purchase if the service has not been substantially performed, unless you requested early supply. After 14 days, your refund entitlement depends on whether SolidWorks has failed to perform as described. If you purchased through a reseller, your cancellation terms may differ from the vendor's public policy. Contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) if the vendor refuses a refund you believe is owed under Australian Consumer Law.
Reseller purchases and contract complexity
If you purchased your SolidWorks licence through a reseller rather than directly from Dassault Systèmes or the official 3DEXPERIENCE platform, your cancellation rights are governed by the reseller's contract as well as the vendor's policy. Reseller agreements frequently impose different cancellation windows, refund eligibility criteria and renewal dates than direct purchases. Your cancellation request must therefore address both the vendor and the reseller, as either party may control your subscription status. Yafee advises retrieving your original purchase agreement and reseller terms before submitting a cancellation; they define your precise obligations and entitlements.
Methods for cancelling SolidWorks in australia
Your cancellation method depends on whether you purchased directly through 3DEXPERIENCE or via a reseller, and this choice determines which channel you must use to stop the subscription.
Direct cancellation through the 3DEXPERIENCE platform
If you purchased directly from Dassault Systèmes through the 3DEXPERIENCE portal, you can cancel online without contacting support. This method is the fastest and most documented route for Australian users and gives you an immediate record of your cancellation request. Follow the steps below to cancel through your 3DEXPERIENCE account.
Reseller cancellation by email or phone
If you purchased through a local Australian reseller or distributor, you must submit your cancellation through the reseller's designated channel. Resellers typically process cancellations by email or telephone, and they control when your subscription actually terminates. Obtain the reseller's cancellation policy and contact details from your original invoice or purchase confirmation email. Email is the preferred method because it creates a written record that Yafee recommends you retain for future dispute resolution if needed.
Hybrid cancellation (vendor and reseller both involved)
In some cases, your 3DEXPERIENCE account exists but your billing relationship is managed by a reseller. You must cancel through both channels to ensure the subscription does not renew. Contact the reseller first to stop billing, then log into your 3DEXPERIENCE account and revoke or disable the subscription. This dual cancellation prevents orphaned subscriptions and ensures the vendor has no claim to future renewal payments.
How to cancel SolidWorks step by step
Follow the procedure that matches your purchase method to cancel your subscription before your next renewal date.
Step 1: gather your account details and review your agreement
- Locate your original purchase confirmation email from Dassault Systèmes or your reseller.
- Note your customer account number or order reference.
- Confirm your current renewal date and the subscription tier you purchased (Standard, Premium, or Premium Plus).
- Identify whether you purchased directly or through a reseller by checking the sender's email address and domain.
- Retrieve your subscription agreement.
- Review the cancellation window and any penalties for early termination.
- Confirm whether you are within 14 days of purchase or outside that cooling-off period.
- Note the reseller's cancellation contact details if applicable.
Step 2: log into your 3DEXPERIENCE account (direct purchases only)
- Open the 3DEXPERIENCE platform at your company's designated login portal or visit the main Dassault Systèmes customer portal.
- Use your username and password. If you have forgotten your credentials, select "Forgot Password" and reset via your registered email address.
- Navigate to your account dashboard.
- Select "My Account" or "Account Settings" from the main menu.
- Locate the "Subscriptions" or "Licences" section.
Step 3: access your subscription management panel
- Within the Subscriptions section, identify the SolidWorks licence you intend to cancel.
- The subscription will display your current plan type, renewal date and billing amount.
- Select "Manage" or "Edit Subscription" next to the active licence.
- This opens the subscription control panel where renewal settings are displayed.
Step 4: submit your cancellation request
- Select the option to "Stop Renewal", "Cancel Subscription" or "Remove Licence".
- The exact button label varies depending on your 3DEXPERIENCE version, but the function remains the same: it halts the automatic renewal.
- Confirm the cancellation date.
- The platform will show the effective date on which your subscription terminates. Ensure this date is before your next renewal date.
- Click "Confirm" or "Submit" to finalise the cancellation.
- The system will generate a cancellation confirmation number.
Step 5: preserve your cancellation confirmation
- Screenshot or print your cancellation confirmation page immediately.
- Record the confirmation number, date and time of cancellation.
- Save this document to your computer or send it to yourself via email as a backup.
- Check your email inbox for a cancellation confirmation from Dassault Systèmes or 3DEXPERIENCE.
- This email serves as your official record and should specify the cancellation date and your remaining access period.
- If no email arrives within 24 hours, log back into your account and verify that the subscription status has changed to "Cancelled".
Step 6: cancel through your reseller (if applicable)
- Send a formal cancellation email to your reseller at the address provided in your purchase agreement.
- Include your customer account number, the subscription tier you are cancelling and your current renewal date.
- Request written confirmation of cancellation.
- Use a clear subject line: "SolidWorks Subscription Cancellation Request - [Your Account Number]".
- Follow up by telephone if you do not receive a response within 5 business days.
- Obtain the name of the staff member who processes your cancellation and confirm the effective cancellation date.
- Ask the reseller to email you a written cancellation confirmation.
What happens after you cancel
Once you submit your cancellation, your SolidWorks subscription enters a managed shutdown period before your access terminates on the specified date.
Your remaining access period
You retain full access to SolidWorks until the end of your current billing period or subscription term. If you cancel mid-year on an annual subscription, you typically keep access until the original annual renewal date. Quarterly subscriptions terminate at the end of the current quarter. Your cancellation does not immediately revoke your licence; it simply prevents the next renewal charge from being processed.
Data export and backup before termination
Before your access expires, export or backup all project files, designs and data stored within SolidWorks or the 3DEXPERIENCE cloud. After your subscription terminates, you lose access to cloud storage and any files that exist only within the platform. Download your work in standard formats (STEP, IGES, PDF or DWG) so you can open these files in alternative tools or archive them for future reference. This step is critical and often overlooked; Yafee advises completing it at least 2 weeks before your access termination date.
Verification of cancellation status
Log into your 3DEXPERIENCE account 48 hours after submitting your cancellation and verify that your subscription status displays as "Cancelled" or "Inactive". If the status still shows "Active", contact the vendor or reseller immediately. Check your bank or credit card statements 1 week after your renewal date to confirm that no renewal charge has been processed. If an unexpected charge appears, raise a dispute with your bank or credit card provider immediately and provide them with your cancellation confirmation as evidence that you terminated the subscription before the renewal date.
Refunds and dispute resolution
Your refund entitlement depends on when you cancelled and whether SolidWorks has performed as described.
Refund eligibility within 14 days
If you cancel within 14 days of purchase and have not substantially used the service, you are entitled to a full refund under the Australian Consumer Law. Contact the vendor or reseller in writing and request a refund citing the cooling-off period. If you requested early supply (early access before the 14-day period), this right does not apply. In that case, you must rely on the vendor's stated refund policy or a claim that the service failed to perform as described.
Refund eligibility after 14 days
After 14 days, your refund entitlement exists only if SolidWorks has failed to meet the standards guaranteed by Australian Consumer Law. Consequently, you must demonstrate that the software does not work as advertised, is not fit for purpose, or is of unacceptable quality. A simple change of mind or discovery of a cheaper alternative does not qualify. If the vendor refuses your refund claim, escalate to the ACCC or pursue a dispute through your credit card provider's chargeback process. Yafee recommends documenting all evidence of non-performance before escalating: error logs, screenshots, support tickets and correspondence with the vendor all strengthen your position.
Pro-rata refunds and subscription disputes
Some vendors offer pro-rata refunds for annual subscriptions cancelled mid-year, though this is not a legal requirement under Australian Consumer Law for services already substantially performed. If you qualify for a pro-rata refund, the vendor will calculate this by dividing your annual fee by 365 days and multiplying by the number of days remaining in your subscription period. Request this calculation in writing from the vendor and verify it independently before accepting any refund offer. Yafee advises comparing this figure against the full refund you might obtain through a chargeback or ACCC claim if the service has genuinely failed to perform.
| Scenario |
Your refund entitlement |
Next step |
| Cancelled within 14 days, no early supply requested |
Full refund |
Request refund in writing from vendor or reseller |
| Cancelled within 14 days, early supply requested |
No automatic refund (relies on vendor policy) |
Check vendor refund policy; claim non-performance if applicable |
| Cancelled after 14 days, service working correctly |
No refund (subscription performed as advertised) |
Avoid future renewal charge; no further action required |
| Cancelled after 14 days, service failing or misrepresented |
Refund possible under Australian Consumer Law |
Submit complaint to vendor; escalate to ACCC if refused |
| Charged after cancellation submitted |
Full refund of erroneous charge |
Contact vendor immediately; dispute charge with your bank |
Escalation to the australian competition and consumer commission
If the vendor or reseller refuses a refund you believe you are entitled to under Australian Consumer Law, lodge a complaint with the ACCC. The ACCC investigates breaches of consumer rights and can compel vendors to honour refund claims. Submit your complaint online at accc.gov.au or by telephone, and provide copies of your purchase agreement, cancellation confirmation, correspondence with the vendor and any evidence of non-performance. The ACCC does not charge a fee and will investigate without cost to you. Yafee advises keeping all communications in writing (email) so you have proof of your complaint if needed later.
Common cancellation mistakes and how to avoid them
Cancellation obstacles are avoidable if you understand the common pitfalls. Many Australian users believe they have cancelled when they have only paused renewal or disabled automatic billing-neither of which stops the subscription from renewing. Others fail to cancel through both the vendor and reseller, leaving one billing relationship active. Verify your cancellation status by logging into your account and confirming that your subscription displays as "Cancelled" or "Inactive", not merely "Paused" or "Temporarily Disabled".
Confusing "pause" with "cancel"
Some vendors offer subscription pause or suspension features that temporarily halt access without terminating the subscription. A paused subscription will still renew automatically after the pause period expires. If you intend to cancel permanently, ensure you select "Cancel", "Stop Renewal" or "Terminate Subscription"-not "Pause" or "Temporarily Disable". The button labels vary, so read the description carefully before confirming. If you are unsure, contact vendor support and request written clarification of the distinction before proceeding.
Missing the renewal date
Your cancellation must take effect before your next renewal date to avoid the charge. If your renewal date is 15 January 2025 and you cancel on 16 January 2025, the charge will have already been processed. Calculate your renewal date precisely using your purchase confirmation email or account dashboard, then submit your cancellation at least 5 business days before that date. This buffer prevents technical delays from causing a missed deadline. If you miss the deadline, contact the vendor immediately and request that the renewal charge be reversed as you cancelled within a reasonable timeframe of the renewal date.
Failing to cancel through the correct channel
If you purchased through a reseller but attempt to cancel through 3DEXPERIENCE only, your billing relationship may remain active with the reseller. The reseller will then process the next renewal charge because they, not the vendor, control your subscription status. Verify your purchase method, contact both the vendor and reseller if necessary, and obtain separate written confirmations of cancellation from each party. This dual verification ensures no party claims you owe a renewal fee.
Not preserving proof of cancellation
The most serious mistake is failing to retain your cancellation confirmation. If a renewal charge appears after you cancel and you have no proof of cancellation, you will struggle to recover the money. Screenshot your cancellation confirmation page immediately, save all cancellation emails and record the date and time of cancellation. Store these documents in a secure location (cloud storage, email archive or printed copies) where you can retrieve them quickly if a dispute arises. This proof becomes essential when filing a chargeback or escalating to the ACCC.
Pricing and cost structure for SolidWorks in australia
Understanding your subscription cost helps you calculate the financial benefit of cancellation and identify whether you are paying for unused capacity.
| Subscription tier |
Annual cost (AUD) |
Quarterly cost (AUD) |
User type |
| 3DEXPERIENCE Standard |
A$5,424 |
A$1,356 |
Individual designer |
| 3DEXPERIENCE Premium |
A$7,200 |
A$1,800 |
Advanced user with simulation |
| 3DEXPERIENCE Premium Plus |
A$9,600 |
A$2,400 |
Team with full simulation suite |
| Student/Academic Licence |
Free-A$1,200 |
Free-A$300 |
Educational institution |
Reseller pricing may vary by up to 15 percent from these official rates. Obtain a current quote from your vendor or reseller to confirm your exact renewal cost before calculating the financial impact of cancellation. If your project has concluded or your team has downsized, cancelling even a single Standard licence prevents an annual outlay of A$5,424. Multiply this figure by the number of unused licences to assess the total savings.
When to keep your subscription versus when to cancel
The decision to cancel depends on your current project needs, budget constraints and long-term design requirements.
| Scenario |
Recommendation |
Reason |
| Project completed, no future design work planned |
Cancel immediately |
Avoid unnecessary renewal charges; re-purchase if needs resume later |
| Team downsized; some licences unused |
Cancel unused licences |
Reduce costs; retain only seats actively used by team members |
| Software does not meet design requirements or fit for purpose |
Cancel and claim refund |
Australian Consumer Law entitles you to refund if service fails to perform as advertised |
| Project paused or on standby; may resume in 3-6 months |
Consider pause or downgrade (if available) |
Preserve your subscription data and settings; avoid losing access to ongoing work |
| Exploring alternative CAD tools; unsure of long-term direction |
Cancel within 14 days; request refund if applicable |
Test competitor tools without dual subscription costs; return to SolidWorks if needed |
| Regular design work; active team use; essential for operations |
Keep subscription |
Maintain productivity; avoid reinstallation and retraining costs |
A checklist for successful cancellation
Use this checklist to ensure you complete every step before your next renewal date.
- Locate your purchase confirmation email and identify your renewal date and account number.
- Confirm whether you purchased directly from Dassault Systèmes or through a reseller.
- Review your subscription agreement to confirm cancellation terms and any early termination penalties.
- Back up or export all project files, designs and data from SolidWorks before your access expires.
- Log into your 3DEXPERIENCE account and navigate to Subscriptions (if direct purchase).
- Select "Stop Renewal" or "Cancel Subscription" and confirm the cancellation date.
- Screenshot your cancellation confirmation page and record the confirmation number.
- If purchased through a reseller, send a formal cancellation email to the reseller at the address provided in your purchase agreement.
- Receive and retain written cancellation confirmation from the vendor and/or reseller.
- Verify 48 hours later that your subscription status displays as "Cancelled" or "Inactive".
- Monitor your bank or credit card statement on your renewal date to confirm no charge is processed.
- If a renewal charge appears, contact the vendor immediately and file a chargeback with your bank.
If you encounter obstacles during cancellation, use these contact channels to escalate your case.
Direct support channels
Contact Dassault Systèmes customer support via the 3DEXPERIENCE platform's help menu or by visiting the official Dassault Systèmes website for your region. You can also reach the support team by telephone during Australian business hours. When contacting support, provide your customer account number, subscription tier, renewal date and a clear description of your cancellation request. Request a ticket number so you can track your case and escalate if the issue is not resolved within 5 business days.
Reseller escalation
If your reseller does not respond to your cancellation request within 5 business days, escalate to the reseller's senior management or account team. Ask to speak with the account manager responsible for your account and request a direct phone call to discuss the cancellation. Send a follow-up email to the original contact with a copy to their manager, clearly stating your cancellation request and the date by which you expect written confirmation. Document every communication in writing (email) for your own records.
Australian competition and consumer commission (ACCC)
If the vendor or reseller refuses to honour your cancellation request or disputes a refund you believe you are entitled to, lodge a formal complaint with the ACCC. The ACCC has the authority to investigate breaches of Australian Consumer Law and can compel vendors to provide refunds. Submit your complaint online at accc.gov.au, by email or by calling 1300 302 502. Include copies of your purchase agreement, cancellation confirmation (if applicable), correspondence with the vendor and any evidence of non-performance.
Credit card chargeback as a last resort
If a renewal charge appears after you have cancelled and the vendor refuses to reverse it, contact your bank or credit card provider and request a chargeback. A chargeback is a formal dispute in which your bank investigates the charge and decides whether it should be refunded. Provide your bank with copies of your cancellation confirmation, correspondence with the vendor and evidence that you attempted to resolve the issue before requesting the chargeback. Most banks will reverse an erroneous charge within 30 to 60 days if you provide adequate documentation.
Why yafee can help you navigate SolidWorks cancellation
At Yafee, we specialise in software and subscription cancellations across Australia and understand the specific obstacles Australian users face when exiting premium tools like SolidWorks. Our guides translate complex contract terms and consumer law into clear, actionable steps so you can cancel confidently without unnecessary delays. Whether you are cancelling within the 14-day cooling-off period, pursuing a refund for non-performance, or simply avoiding an unwanted renewal charge, Yafee has helped thousands of consumers cancel their subscriptions and recover money owed under Australian Consumer Law.
Your SolidWorks cancellation is governed by specific legal frameworks-the Australian Consumer Law, vendor-imposed terms and potentially reseller conditions. Understanding these rules and following the documented cancellation process protects you from unexpected charges and positions you to claim a refund if the service has failed to perform. Yafee recommends completing this cancellation checklist before your renewal date, preserving every confirmation and contact record, and escalating to the ACCC only if the vendor refuses to honour your legal rights.
Start your cancellation today by gathering your purchase confirmation email and identifying your renewal date. Yafee has guided thousands of Australian consumers through software cancellations, and we are here to support your exit from SolidWorks at yafee.com.