Summary
Restrictive practices are actions, interventions, or supports that restrict the rights or freedom of movement of a person with disability. These practices are highly regulated under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and may only be used in accordance with the applicable state or territory legislation.
The use of restrictive practices must align with the NDIS principles of promoting dignity, autonomy, and community inclusion.
What NDIS May Fund (Requires Approval)
Certain items that may pose a risk of harm or could be considered restrictive in nature may be funded by the NDIS, subject to approval and compliance with relevant regulations. These may include:
- ⚠️ Bed sticks and transfer aids: Only when prescribed by a qualified therapist to support safety and mobility.
- ⚠️ Assistive Technology (AT) requiring specialist assessment: Particularly those items that may restrict movement or involve complex risk management.
- ⚠️ Devices for breathing support: Such as CPAP machines when related to disability needs.
- ⚠️ Pressure care devices: To prevent harm due to limited mobility.
- ⚠️ Mobility and postural support devices: Must be in line with clinical recommendations.
- ⚠️ Motor vehicle adaptations: Where the adaptation assists in safe transport and mobility.
- ⚠️ Beds adjustable while occupied: When essential for safe transfers or health management.
- ⚠️ Prosthetics and orthotics: Customised devices related to disability needs.
All high-risk assistive technology generally requires advice from an Assistive Technology Advisor or Assessor for correct item selection and to ensure safe outcomes.
➡️ More information:
NDIS Assistive Technology Guidelines
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
What is Not Funded by NDIS
The NDIS will not fund:
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Supports involving unlawful or prohibited restrictive practices, including:
- ❌ Physical restraint (e.g. tying a person down)
- ❌ Mechanical restraint (e.g. belts or cuffs used improperly)
- ❌ Chemical restraint (e.g. sedation for behaviour control without proper clinical oversight)
- ❌ Seclusion (e.g. locking someone alone in a room)
- Supports that may cause harm or have the potential for harm without proper clinical oversight.
- Any item that:
- ❌ Does not comply with Australian Law, National Construction Code, or Australian Standards.
- ❌ Is regulated and not approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Examples of non-funded items:
- ❌ Bed rails or bed covers that could pose a safety risk.
- ❌ Weighted blankets that are not clinically justified.
- ❌ Devices that restrict voluntary movement unless appropriately prescribed.
Compliance and Reporting
If a support involves a regulated restrictive practice, it must be:
- Documented in a Behaviour Support Plan.
- Reported as a Reportable Incident to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
All providers are legally required to minimise the use of restrictive practices and ensure that any use complies with the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules.
➡️ More information:
NDIS Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support
Operational Guidelines
- Supports must meet the NDIS Funding Criteria: related to disability, value for money, and effective/beneficial to the participant.
- If the use of restrictive practices is necessary, ensure:
- The participant’s human rights are upheld.
- It is the least restrictive option.
- It is used only as a last resort to prevent harm.
Operational guidance is drawn from:
Key Takeaways
- Restrictive practices require careful consideration, regulation, and approval.
- NDIS will not fund any unlawful, unsafe, or unsupported restrictive interventions.
- Providers must comply with behaviour support regulations and safeguard participants’ rights.
For advice on specific items, consult an Assistive Technology Assessor or contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.