In December 2024, a new fact sheet was released outlining the critical right of all NDIS participants to access safe, ethical, and high-quality supports and services. Central to ensuring these rights are respected and upheld is the NDIS Code of Conduct. This Code provides a framework for all those who deliver NDIS services, helping them maintain the highest standards of care and ensuring that participants receive supports that respect their dignity and choices.
Understanding the NDIS Code of Conduct
The NDIS Code of Conduct defines the behaviour and culture expected of all individuals involved in providing NDIS supports and services. It sets clear guidelines for service delivery, ensuring that participants’ rights are at the forefront of every interaction.
Key Requirements of the Code of Conduct
The NDIS Code of Conduct mandates that all NDIS providers, key personnel, and workers:
- Respect individual rights: This includes the right to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with relevant laws and conventions.
- Ensure privacy and confidentiality: Respecting the privacy of people with disabilities is fundamental.
- Provide safe, competent, and ethical services: Supports must be delivered with care, skill, and professionalism.
- Act with integrity, honesty, and transparency: It’s critical that workers and providers maintain the highest standards of ethical behaviour.
- Address concerns promptly: Providers are expected to take swift action when concerns arise that could impact the safety and quality of services.
- Prevent and respond to violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse: Protecting participants from harm is a non-negotiable responsibility.
- Address sexual misconduct: Preventing and responding to all forms of sexual misconduct is crucial to creating a safe environment.
- Ensure fair pricing: Charges for goods and services should be reasonable and not higher than necessary for NDIS participants.
New Focus on Fair Pricing
A new addition to the Code of Conduct highlights the importance of fair pricing. It ensures that NDIS participants are not charged excessively for goods or services compared to other customers. This reinforces the commitment to equity and fairness in service delivery.
Who Must Follow the Code of Conduct?
The NDIS Code of Conduct is applicable to:
- Registered NDIS providers, their key personnel, and NDIS workers.
- Unregistered NDIS providers, their key personnel, and NDIS workers.
- Providers delivering information, linkages, and capacity building (ILC) activities.
- Providers delivering services under the Commonwealth Continuity of Support Programme for people over 65.
- NDIS Commission employees, who must also adhere to the Australian Public Service Code of Conduct.
Supporting Workforce Development
To help providers and workers meet the expectations of the NDIS Code of Conduct, several resources are available:
- NDIS Workforce Capability Framework: This framework translates the Code of Conduct into observable behaviours and capabilities, providing clear examples of what “good” looks like in practice.
- Worker Orientation Module: The “Worker Orientation Module – Quality, Safety and You” is an online training resource that explains what is required under the Code from a participant’s perspective. It is mandatory for staff of registered NDIS providers and essential for all workers.
Multilingual and Auslan Resources
Understanding the diverse backgrounds of NDIS participants and workers, the NDIS Commission has made resources, including an overview video of the Code of Conduct, available in nine languages and Auslan. These translations help ensure that everyone, regardless of language or hearing preference, has access to vital information.
The NDIS Code of Conduct is an essential tool for ensuring that people with disabilities are treated with the respect, dignity, and care they deserve. By setting clear expectations for providers, workers, and key personnel, the Code creates a strong foundation for safe and ethical service delivery in the NDIS sector. As we move into 2025, it is critical that all those involved in the NDIS system continue to uphold these principles and ensure that the rights of participants are always safeguarded.
For more information on the NDIS Code of Conduct, fair pricing, or workforce development resources, visit the NDIS Commission website.
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Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.
Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector. She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of individuals facing similar challenges.
