Understanding Restrictive Practices in NDIS Support

Written by Julian Vilsten, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner. Last updated: April 2026

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Restrictive practices are a deeply sensitive and highly regulated area of disability support. They involve interventions that intentionally limit the rights or freedom of movement of a person. Their use is a serious matter under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). While restrictive practices may sometimes be necessary to prevent immediate harm, they must always be used as a last resort. The person's dignity and rights must remain at the forefront.

Understanding what constitutes a restrictive practice, the types that are regulated, and how they should be used is essential for NDIS providers, carers, and support teams. It's also critical to understand the impact these practices can have on the individual, along with the responsibilities that come with using them.

Why Restrictive Practices Matter

At their core, restrictive practices can impact a person's autonomy, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life. Even when used with good intentions, they can feel disempowering, confusing, or distressing. This is why national and international frameworks exist to ensure their careful, considered use.

The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is responsible for overseeing how restrictive practices are used in Australia. Its guidelines align with broader legal protections, including the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. This charter protects individuals' rights to freedom, dignity, and self-determination.

All use of restrictive practices must be:

• Authorised by relevant state or territory bodies.

• Documented in a behaviour support plan developed by a registered NDIS behaviour support practitioner.

• Monitored and Reported to the NDIS Commission.

• Regularly reviewed to ensure the practice is the least restrictive option available.
  

The goal of any support should be to reduce and eventually eliminate the need for restrictive practices. This can be achieved through proactive and positive behaviour support strategies.

The Five Regulated Restrictive Practices

Here's a closer look at each type of regulated restrictive practice under the NDIS, along with two examples for each.

1. Environmental Restraint

Definition: Environmental restraint limits a person's access to areas, items, or activities as a way to control behaviour.

Examples:

• Locking cupboards or fridges to stop food access.

• Taking away or locking away personal items like mobile phones or cigarettes.
  

2. Chemical Restraint

Definition: Chemical restraint refers to the use of medication to control a person's behaviour. This is not for treatment of a diagnosed condition but to influence or manage behaviour.

Examples:

• Giving a person a sedative during the day to reduce agitation.

• Administering antipsychotic medication to manage aggression when there is no relevant psychiatric diagnosis.
  

3. Mechanical Restraint

Definition: This involves using a device to prevent, restrict, or subdue a person's movement for the purpose of controlling behaviour.

Examples:

• Securing someone to a chair with belts to stop them from standing.

• Using a helmet or restrictive clothing to prevent head-banging or other self-harm.
  

4. Seclusion

Definition: Seclusion is the sole confinement of a person in a room or space from which they are unable to leave freely or believe they cannot leave, even if just for a short time.

Examples:

• Locking someone in a room during a behavioural episode to prevent harm.

• Telling a person they must remain in a room alone until they calm down.
  

5. Physical Restraint

Definition: Physical restraint is the use of physical force by another person to prevent, restrict, or subdue someone's movement.

Examples:

• Holding a person down to stop them from harming themselves or others.

• Blocking a person's exit with your body to prevent them from entering a certain area.
  

A Rights-Based Approach

Every person deserves to feel safe, respected, and in control of their own life. While restrictive practices may sometimes be necessary in complex situations, their use must never become routine or go unexamined. A rights-based approach means always asking: Is this the least restrictive option? Is there another way to support the person more positively and respectfully?

Working together, behaviour support practitioners, carers, and providers can create safer, more empowering environments. This helps individuals thrive, not just manage risk.

The Importance of Compassionate Support

Navigating restrictive practices can be challenging for everyone involved. It's essential to approach these situations with compassion and understanding. I believe that every interaction should prioritise the individual's feelings and experiences. This approach fosters trust and encourages open communication.

When we focus on compassionate support, we can create an environment where individuals feel valued. They can express their needs and preferences without fear. This is crucial for their emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.

The Role of Positive Behaviour Support

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a proactive approach that focuses on understanding the reasons behind behaviours. It aims to replace challenging behaviours with positive alternatives. By using PBS, we can reduce the reliance on restrictive practices.

PBS involves working closely with individuals to identify triggers and develop strategies that promote positive behaviours. This might include teaching new skills, providing emotional support, or modifying the environment to better suit the individual's needs.

Building a Supportive Community

Creating a supportive community is vital for NDIS participants navigating neurodiversity. We can achieve this by fostering connections among individuals, families, and support providers. Sharing experiences and resources can empower everyone involved.

Support groups can provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories. They can learn from one another and gain insights into effective strategies. This sense of community can be incredibly uplifting and reassuring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding restrictive practices is essential for everyone involved in NDIS support. We must prioritise dignity and respect in all interactions. By adopting a rights-based approach and focusing on compassionate support, we can create a more positive experience for individuals.

If you're looking for support that prioritises dignity and the reduction of restrictive practices, I invite you to reach out. Outcomes Lab provides neuroaffirming Positive Behaviour Support, Psychology, and Neuropsychology services across Melbourne. Together, we can help individuals achieve real, lasting change.

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About the author

Julian Vilsten is a Clinical Neuropsychologist, Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner, and the Director of Outcomes Lab. He has over 15 years of experience in mental health and disability services. Outcomes Lab provides NDIS psychology, neuropsychological assessment, and positive behaviour support services in Melbourne, VIC and Port Lincoln, SA.

To make a referral or check capacity, contact us here.