What is the NDIS Code of Conduct?
The NDIS Code of Conduct is a set of principles that all NDIS providers and workers must follow. It sets out the expectations for ethical behavior and quality service delivery to NDIS participants. Understanding and implementing the Code is essential for every NDIS provider.
Who Must Follow the Code?
The NDIS Code of Conduct applies to:
- Registered NDIS providers and their employees
- Unregistered providers delivering NDIS supports
- NDIS workers (anyone delivering supports to participants)
- Contractors and subcontractors working with NDIS participants
- Key personnel of registered providers
The Eight Principles
1. Act with Respect for Individual Rights
Respect the rights of people with disability to:
- Freedom of expression
- Self-determination and choice
- Privacy and dignity
- Control over their own lives
In practice: Always ask participants about their preferences, explain options clearly, and support their decisions even if different from what you might choose.
2. Respect Privacy and Confidentiality
Protect participant information by:
- Only collecting necessary information
- Storing records securely
- Only sharing information when authorized
- Following privacy legislation
In practice: Use secure systems for records, get consent before sharing information, and train staff on privacy requirements.
3. Provide Supports Safely and Competently
Ensure your services are:
- Delivered by qualified workers
- Safe and free from harm
- Based on evidence and best practice
- Continuously improved
In practice: Maintain staff training records, follow safe work procedures, and update your skills regularly.
4. Act with Integrity and Honesty
Demonstrate integrity by:
- Being truthful in all dealings
- Declaring conflicts of interest
- Not misleading participants
- Honoring commitments
In practice: Be upfront about what your services can and cannot provide, and always follow through on promises.
5. Promptly Take Steps to Address Concerns
Respond to issues by:
- Taking complaints seriously
- Investigating concerns quickly
- Taking corrective action
- Learning from feedback
In practice: Have a clear complaints process, respond within set timeframes, and document all actions taken.
6. Prevent and Respond to Violence, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation
Protect participants by:
- Training staff to recognize warning signs
- Having clear reporting procedures
- Responding immediately to concerns
- Creating safe environments
In practice: Implement safeguarding policies, conduct background checks, and create a culture where concerns can be raised.
7. Take All Reasonable Steps to Prevent and Respond to Sexual Misconduct
Ensure safety by:
- Having clear boundaries
- Training staff on appropriate behavior
- Responding immediately to any concerns
- Supporting affected individuals
In practice: Establish clear policies on professional boundaries, never engage in intimate relationships with participants, and respond swiftly to any allegations.
Implementing the Code in Your Organization
Policy Development
Create policies that address:
- How each principle applies to your services
- Staff responsibilities and expectations
- Reporting and escalation procedures
- Consequences for breaches
Staff Training
Train all staff on:
- The seven principles and what they mean
- How to apply the Code in daily work
- Recognizing and reporting concerns
- Documentation requirements
Monitoring and Review
Regularly assess compliance by:
- Reviewing incidents and complaints
- Conducting staff supervision
- Auditing practices against the Code
- Getting participant feedback
Breaches of the Code
What Constitutes a Breach?
A breach occurs when a provider or worker fails to comply with any principle. This could include:
- Disrespecting participant choices
- Sharing information without consent
- Providing unsafe services
- Acting dishonestly
- Ignoring complaints
- Failing to report abuse
Consequences of Breaches
Breaches can result in:
- Compliance notices from the NDIS Commission
- Banning orders against workers
- Revocation of registration
- Civil penalties
- Criminal prosecution (for serious matters)
Reporting Breaches
Report breaches to:
- Your supervisor (internal breaches)
- NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission (serious breaches)
- Police (criminal matters)
Creating a Culture of Compliance
Leadership Commitment
Leaders should:
- Model ethical behavior
- Prioritize participant safety
- Invest in training
- Take concerns seriously
Open Communication
Foster an environment where:
- Staff can raise concerns safely
- Participants feel heard
- Feedback is welcomed
- Mistakes are learning opportunities
Continuous Improvement
Regularly:
- Review policies and procedures
- Update training programs
- Assess effectiveness of safeguards
- Implement improvements
Resources and Support
NDIS Commission Resources
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission provides:
- Detailed guidance on the Code
- Training materials
- Compliance tools
- Reporting portals
Training Programs
Consider:
- NDIS Worker Orientation Module
- Code of Conduct training
- Safeguarding training
- Specific topic modules
8. Do Not Overcharge
Charge fair prices by:
- Not charging NDIS participants more than others without justification
- Being transparent about pricing
- Ensuring value for money
- Following NDIS Pricing Arrangements
In practice: Maintain consistent pricing policies, document any price differences with legitimate business reasons, and ensure your rates align with the NDIS Price Guide where applicable.
Key Takeaways
- The Code applies to everyone delivering NDIS supports, regardless of registration status
- Seven principles guide ethical behavior and service delivery
- Implementation requires policies, training, and ongoing monitoring
- Breaches have serious consequences including banning orders and registration revocation
- Creating the right culture is as important as having the right policies
Next Steps
Ready to implement the Code of Conduct in your organization?
- Review your current policies against the seven principles
- Develop or update your Code of Conduct policy
- Train all staff on their responsibilities
- Establish monitoring and reporting systems
- Create a culture that prioritizes participant safety
Understanding and living by the NDIS Code of Conduct is fundamental to being a quality NDIS provider. It protects participants, supports workers, and builds trust in the disability services sector.
