NDIS Code of Conduct for support workers
The NDIS Code of Conduct is a set of legally binding obligations that every NDIS worker and provider must follow, registered or not. It is made under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (Code of Conduct) Rules 2018. For a support worker it means respecting the participant's rights and privacy, working safely and competently, being honest, speaking up about concerns, and preventing abuse, neglect and sexual misconduct.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (Code of Conduct) Rules 2018
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, NDIS Code of Conduct guidance for NDIS workers
National Disability Insurance Scheme (Codes of Conduct) Amendment (2023 Measures No. 1) Rules 2023
National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 (Cth)
The elements of the Code
The Code requires you to act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self determination and decision making, respect the privacy of people with disability, provide supports in a safe and competent manner with care and skill, act with integrity, honesty and transparency, promptly raise and act on concerns about quality and safety, take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to violence, exploitation, neglect and abuse, and take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct. An amendment in December 2023 added a rule that a person covered by the Code must not charge or represent a higher price for goods to a participant than to others without reasonable justification.
Who it applies to
The Code applies to all NDIS providers and to anyone employed or otherwise engaged by a provider, including casuals, contractors, sole traders on a platform, and volunteers. It does not matter whether the provider is registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission or whether the participant is agency managed, plan managed or self managed. Key personnel such as directors are also covered. If you deliver a support funded by the NDIS, the Code applies to you personally, not just to your employer.
What it looks like on a shift
In practice the Code means asking before you act, knocking before entering a bedroom, not sharing photos or details of a participant without consent, sticking to tasks you are trained for, keeping accurate notes and timesheets, never borrowing money or accepting gifts of value, and reporting incidents and near misses the same day. If you see another worker being rough, dismissive or dishonest, you are required to raise it. Most providers require workers to complete the Commission's free online module, Quality, Safety and You, as part of orientation, and many states link it to worker screening.
What happens if the Code is breached
Anyone can complain to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission about a worker or provider. The Commission can investigate, issue compliance notices, impose civil penalties, and ban a worker from the sector through a banning order that is published on a public register. Registered providers also face registration conditions and possible revocation. Serious matters can be referred to police, and a banning order can also affect your NDIS worker screening clearance. For most workers, though, the Code is protective. Following it, asking when you are unsure, and documenting your decisions is the best defence when something goes wrong.
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