NDIS Rights in Practice: Consent, Privacy & Choice

Your rights at every step (consent, privacy, choice)

In the NDIS, your rights come with practical responsibilities from providers and staff. You have the right to give informed consent before supports start, before information is shared, and before any planned changes are made. Consent should be clear, not assumed, and you should be told what is happening, why, and what the options are. If you don’t understand something, ask questions or request information in a format that suits you.

Your privacy is also protected. Providers must only collect and use your personal information for your supports, and they should explain how your information is stored and who can access it. You can ask who will see your records, whether it will be shared with other services, and how long it is kept. If you’re using plan management, you can also ask how your plan funds are handled and reported. MyMoney NDIS (www.planmanager.net.au) can help with understanding how invoices, payments and provider claims work, while still keeping your personal information protected.

Choice means you can make real decisions about who supports you, how supports are delivered, and when and where services happen. If something isn’t working, you can request changes, ask for alternative providers, or discuss different support options with your team. A helpful step is to compare providers—My Care Finders can support you to check different options so you can choose what fits best for your goals and preferences.

Key takeaway: If you’re asked to agree to something, you should feel informed, comfortable, and free to say “not yet” or “no”.

• Before consent: request details about the support, risks (if any), costs, and who will be involved.
• During supports: you can pause or change how things are done if it affects your comfort, safety, or dignity.
• With privacy: ask how information is shared and only sign forms you understand.
• For choice: review your supports regularly and ask for adjustments in writing if needed.