Understanding restrictive practices and our commitment to reducing them
What they are, why they're regulated, and our commitment to reducing them
A restrictive practice is any action that restricts a person's rights or freedom of movement. Examples include physical restraint, seclusion, chemical restraint (medication used primarily for behaviour management), mechanical restraint, or environmental restraint.
Under the NDIS, restrictive practices can only be used as a last resort when someone is at risk of harm to themselves or others—and they must be approved by the NDIS Commission. PBS Practitioners have the specialised role of assessing, endorsing, and developing plans to reduce and eliminate these practices.
Important: Many people don't realise their support plan contains restrictive practices until they need NDIS Commission approval.
Common examples include locked doors, supervision requirements, PRN medication for behaviour management, or physical guidance to prevent harm.
Restrictive practices impact human rights and must be used only when absolutely necessary and with proper oversight.
Our goal is always to teach skills and change environments so that restrictions become unnecessary.
We ensure all restrictive practices are properly assessed, documented, and reported to the NDIS Commission.
Reducing restrictions means more freedom, dignity, and opportunities to live the life you choose.
If your support plan requires restrictive practice endorsement, we will work transparently with you, your family, and your team to ensure safety while actively working toward reduction and elimination.