Understanding Your Rights as an NDIS Participant

As an NDIS participant, you are entitled to several rights that empower you to access support, make decisions, and achieve your goals.

This informative guide provides a clear and detailed explanation of these rights, ensuring you understand how to make the most of your NDIS plan.

What Are Your Basic Rights as an NDIS Participant?

The NDIS guarantees your rights as outlined in the NDIS Act 2013. These rights ensure you receive fair and respectful treatment and have access to necessary support.

Key Rights Include:

• Accessing supports that help you achieve your goals.
• Making your own decisions about your support.
• Receiving respect, dignity, and privacy.
• Accessing information in a way you understand.
• Having complaints heard and resolved.
• Being free from discrimination or unfair treatment.

What Does Choice and Control Mean Under the NDIS?

Choice and control mean you can decide how to use your NDIS funding.

You Can:

• Choose your service providers.
• Decide how your supports are delivered.
• Set your goals and priorities.
• Change your providers if you’re not satisfied.

This right ensures you can design your life based on your preferences.

What Are Your Rights When Accessing NDIS Supports?

When accessing support, your rights protect your safety and well-being.

You Have the Right to:

• Be treated with respect and without judgment.
• Have a support worker who meets your needs.
• Say no to services you do not want.
• Request a service agreement that outlines your provider’s responsibilities.

Service agreements clarify what you expect and ensure transparency between you and your provider.

What Rights Do You Have in Decision-Making?

You can participate in all decisions about your support and goals.

This Includes:

• Reviewing your NDIS plan.
• Add or change supports that better suit your needs.
• Receiving help to understand your plan, if required.

You can also ask a family member, friend, or support coordinator to assist in decision-making.

How Does the NDIS Protect Your Privacy?

The NDIS ensures your personal information is safe and used appropriately.

Your Privacy Is Protected By:

• Storing your information securely.
• Sharing your data only with your consent or as required by law.
• Allowing you to access or correct your information.

These measures ensure you feel safe sharing your details with providers.

What Can You Do If You Face Discrimination?

The NDIS prohibits discrimination based on disability, age, gender, or background.

If You Face Discrimination:

• Inform your provider or support worker about the issue.
• Contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
• Seek legal advice or advocacy services if needed.

Discrimination is not acceptable, and your rights protect you from unfair treatment.

What Are Your Responsibilities as an NDIS Participant?

While you have rights, you also have responsibilities to ensure the system works effectively.

Your Responsibilities Include:

• Using your funding as outlined in your plan.
• Treat your providers and support workers with respect.
• Informing providers of any changes to your needs.
• Attending regular reviews to assess your progress and needs.

Being responsible helps you get the most out of your NDIS plan.

How Can You Ensure Your Rights Are Respected?

Understanding and asserting your rights ensures providers respect them.

Tips to Ensure Your Rights Are Respected:

• Learn about your rights through the NDIS website or resources.
• Speak up if something feels wrong or unfair.
• Involve a support coordinator or advocate if needed.
• Keep records of your interactions with providers.

Being proactive helps you maintain control over your support.

What Role Does Advocacy Play in Protecting Your Rights?

Advocacy enables you to stand up for your rights and make informed decisions.

Advocacy Services Can Help You:

• Understand your NDIS plan and funding.
• Resolve conflicts with providers.
• Access legal or formal complaint support.
• Ensure your voice is heard in all decisions.

Advocates work on your behalf to safeguard your interests.

Conclusion

Understanding your rights as an NDIS participant empowers you to make informed decisions, access quality services, and live a fulfilling life. If you ever feel your rights are not respected, speak up, seek advocacy, or contact the NDIS Commission for support.

For more information about your rights or how Koala Care Services can assist you, call us at 03 9967 8380.