The NDIS Code of Conduct Explained Simply

What is the NDIS Code of Conduct?

The Code of Conduct sets out clear expectations for the behavior of NDIS providers and workers. It is a part of the NDIS rules within the NDIS Act.

The overall purpose of the NDIS Code of Conduct is to:

  • Protect the rights of NDIS participants
  • Promote a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion across the NDIS sector

Where can I read the NDIS Code of Conduct?

The NDIS Code of Conduct and supporting resources are available on the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission’s website.

  • It is free to access and download here

What are the main points of the NDIS Code of Conduct?

The NDIS Code of Conduct defines eight key obligations that every worker and provider must follow:

  1. Act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with relevant laws and conventions
  2. Respect the privacy of people with disability
  3. Provide supports and services in a safe and competent manner with care and skill
  4. Act with integrity, honesty, and transparency
  5. Promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that might impact the quality and safety of supports
  6. Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse
  7. Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct
  8. Not charge or represent higher prices for the supply of goods for NDIS participants without a reasonable justification

Does the NDIS Code of Conduct ever change?

Like all government legislation, the Code of Conduct may evolve over time in response to:

  • Changing needs
  • Emerging risks
  • Policy updates

Any changes are communicated by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

Who needs to adhere to the NDIS Code of Conduct?

All NDIS providers—registered or not—and all workers delivering NDIS-funded services must adhere to the Code of Conduct.

  • All NDIS providers (registered or unregistered)
  • All workers delivering NDIS-funded services, including:
    • Support workers
    • Therapists
    • Coordinators
    • Administrative staff
  • NDIS staff
  • Local Area Coordinators

Does it apply to participants themselves?

No, the Code of Conduct applies to providers and workers, not to participants. Participants can find information about their rights and responsibilities here.

What can providers and workers do to ensure they comply?

  • Undertake training when commencing work in the NDIS sector
  • Participate in annual refresher training to stay up to date

What happens if someone breaks the Code of Conduct?

  • Issuing warnings and directing improvements
  • Imposing bans or deregistration (banning list)
  • Referring serious cases to police or other authorities
  • Pursuing criminal penalties when appropriate

Who checks compliance?

The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission monitors compliance for both registered and unregistered providers.

For registered providers, independent audits are a key monitoring tool. Feedback and complaints from participants and the community also play an important role.

How does the Code of Conduct help participants?

  • Participants are at the center of care and decision-making
  • Providers and workers listen to participants and respect their choices
  • Supports and services are delivered safely and with high quality
  • Accountability if things go wrong

What should I do if I feel someone is breaching the Code?

  1. Speak directly to the provider or worker to raise your concern
  2. Follow the provider’s complaints-handling policy
  3. If not satisfied, escalate to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission via phone or website
  4. Seek advocacy support if needed (services listed here)

Is training available from both the NDIS and third-party providers?

Yes. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission provides an orientation module for new workers here.

Third-party providers like Take5Learning offer comprehensive training covering the Code of Conduct and Practice Standards.

What training is available through Take 5 Learning?

Take5Learning’s training covers the NDIS Practice Standards (standards 1 to 4) and includes practical application of the Code of Conduct to ensure workers understand both principles and daily application.

Final thoughts

The NDIS Code of Conduct is more than a policy—it is a foundational safeguarding tool for the sector. Staying informed and completing annual refreshers is vital to ensuring a safe, respectful, and accountable NDIS.

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