NDIS Rights: Consent, Privacy & Safe Support in Practice

Consent & choice: what “yes” should look like

In the NDIS, “consent” means you freely agree to something after you’ve been given clear, honest information. A real “yes” should be informed (you understand what’s happening and why), voluntary (no pressure, threats, or hidden consequences) and specific (it relates to the exact support, person, time and how it will be done). If you don’t understand, you can ask questions or request a different explanation.

Good practice looks like staff checking in before each new activity, offering choices, and respecting your boundaries. For example, your support worker should confirm whether you want personal care at a certain time, which tasks you want help with, and how you want privacy maintained. If plans change, providers should talk to you about the new plan and ask for your consent again where required.

You should also be able to say “no” and still receive your other supports without punishment or withdrawal of service. If you feel rushed or your choice is being ignored, that’s a sign to pause and speak up. If you’re comparing providers, My Care Finders can help you look at how different services describe consent, communication and decision-making. And if your supports are plan-managed, you may use MyMoney NDIS (www.planmanager.net.au) to better understand provider invoices and how supports are tracked in your plan.

Key takeaway: A genuine “yes” is informed, voluntary and specific—and you can change your mind.

• Ask: “What exactly will you do, who will be there, and how will privacy be protected?”
• Check choices: “Can I choose the time, the way, or who provides the support?”
• Set boundaries: “I don’t consent to that part of the support” or “Please stop.”
• Follow up: If something doesn’t feel right, tell the provider and request it be recorded and addressed.