Rights to Consent & Choice—Make It Real in NDIS

Consent & choice: what you can expect, every time

In the NDIS, you have the right to make decisions about your supports. That means you should be asked, listened to, and supported to understand your options before anything happens. Consent is not a one-time form—it should be confirmed for day-to-day choices too, like what time services start, who is there, how supports are delivered, and whether something feels right for you in the moment. If you change your mind, you can.

My Care Finders can help you compare providers and feel confident you’re choosing supports that match your preferences. When you’re speaking with a provider, look for clear explanations in plain language, respect for your goals, and flexibility to adjust supports if your needs change. If you use plan management (through MyMoney NDIS at www.planmanager.net.au), you can also ask about how invoices, service agreements, and changes are handled so you stay in control and understand what’s funded.

Good consent practice looks like this: staff explain what they want to do and why, check you understand, ask for your agreement, and confirm consent again when circumstances change. It also means your privacy is respected—your personal information should only be shared with people you’ve agreed to, unless there’s a lawful reason. If communication is a barrier, supports should be adapted (for example, using easy-read materials, visual prompts, an interpreter, or a communication support person).

Key takeaway: You should never be pressured to agree. If you’re unsure, you can ask questions, request time to think, and choose what happens next.

Every time you receive support, you can expect respectful choices and a genuine opportunity to say yes or no. If something goes wrong—such as you weren’t asked, your boundaries weren’t followed, or you felt rushed—tell the provider as soon as you can, and ask how to review the decision. You can also contact My Care Finders to compare options and understand your next steps, including provider complaints processes and support to advocate for your rights.

• Ask: “What are my options?” and “What are you going to do, step by step?”
• Confirm: “Do I agree?” before any support starts.
• Review: If your goals change, ask for supports to be updated.
• Record: If it helps, keep notes of decisions, changes, and any concerns.