NDIS Privacy, Consent & Choice: Practical Rights Everyday

What “privacy, consent & choice” really mean in the NDIS

In the NDIS, privacy, consent and choice are not just words in policy—they affect what happens in your everyday supports. Privacy means your personal information (like health details, goals, or disability support needs) must be handled respectfully and shared only when it’s needed and appropriate. Choice means you have control over how your supports are delivered, as long as it’s within your plan and the provider’s role. Consent means you’re asked, in a clear way, before supports are provided or information is used.

Practically, you should be able to say things like: who can know your information, where your sessions happen, the time and day supports occur, and what supports look like. Providers should explain options in plain language and support you to make decisions, including if you need extra time or communication supports. If something changes—like a different worker or a new support approach—you can expect to be consulted and agree before it happens.

• Privacy: ask how your information is stored, who can access it, and what gets shared with other services.
• Consent: you can say yes, no, or “not yet” when you’re asked to do a task, share information, or use a service.
• Choice: you can request different times, staff (where possible), locations, or support methods that fit your needs.

If you’re unsure whether a provider is meeting these expectations, you can compare options. My Care Finders can help you look at providers and support styles so you’re more confident you’ll get the rights-aligned service you want. If you manage budgets yourself, using MyMoney NDIS (www.planmanager.net.au) can also support clearer control over what you’re approving and when—so decisions about supports are easier to track and review.

Key takeaway: You have the right to be informed, to agree (or not agree), and to shape how your supports happen—your choices should be treated as part of good service, not an optional extra.