Interim restrictive practice approvals in NSW: What Supported Independent Living providers need to know!
March 26, 2025
Interim restrictive practice approvals in NSW:
What Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers need to know!
In New South Wales, interim restrictive practice approvals (RPA) are a crucial component of managing interim behaviour support plans (BSP). These approvals ensure that restrictive practices are used appropriately and with proper oversight.
Key Points about Interim RPA Panels:
- Usage: Interim RPA panels are exclusively for interim BSPs.
- Recording Actions: All actions and decisions f rom an interim RPA panel must be documented in the NSW RPA System, similar to the authorisation of any restrictive practice.
- Panel Composition: The interim RPA panel consists solely of the Senior Manager f rom the NDIS implementing provider. The NSW RPA System restricts the selection of additional panel members for interim panels.
- Independent Specialist: A DCJ Independent Specialist is not included in interim RPA panels.
- Completion of Authorisation: Interim authorisation is f inalised once the Senior Manager approves the restrictive practice, and consent to implement the practice is obtained and recorded in the NSW RPA System.
- Stakeholder Input: It is often benef icial for the behaviour support practitioner and other stakeholders to contribute to the interim RPA panel. Best practice suggests that the author of the BSP attends the panel to provide additional information or answer questions f rom the Senior Manager regarding the strategies in the interim BSP.
- Additional Attendees: Any additional attendees, such as the Behaviour Support Practitioner or the participant, can be noted in the Outcome Summary.
These guidelines ensure that interim restrictive practices are implemented with the necessary oversight and input f rom relevant stakeholders, promoting the best outcomes for individuals under the NDIS. By adhering to these procedures, we can ensure that restrictive practices are used responsibly and effectively, with a focus on the well- being of our clients.
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The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissio n has released a new suite of resources titled "Restrictive Practices and Me", designed to support meaningful conversations with participants when regulated restrictive practices are included in their behaviour support plans. These resources aim to uphold participants' rights and ensure that discussions around restrictive practices are accessible, respectful, and tailored to individual needs. Developed in collaboration with people with disability, NDIS providers, authorisation bodies, and advocacy organisations, the materials reflect a commitment to person-centred practice and transparency. What’s Included? The Restrictive Practices and Me toolkit features: A tip sheet for practitioners and providers Plain English and Easy Read discussion books A case study illustrating practical application A set of icons to visually represent different types of restrictive practices These resources are editable and adaptable, allowing practitioners to tailor content to each participant’s circumstances. For example, pages not relevant to a participant’s situation can be removed, and images can be reused in other formats. Why It Matters Under Section 20 of the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018, participants must be informed when restrictive practices are proposed. These conversations must be conducted in a way that is easy to understand and respectful of the participant’s autonomy. The Commission emphasises that restrictive practices should only be used as a last resort, and must be the least restrictive option available. They must be included in a behaviour support plan and follow the appropriate authorisation processes. Regulatory Priorities for 2025–26 This initiative aligns with the NDIS Commission’s broader regulatory priorities for 2025–26, which include: Reducing and eliminating regulated restrictive practices Strengthening oversight of unregistered providers Improving management of high-risk health concerns Ensuring providers support and train skilled workers Commissioner Louise Glanville reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to human rights, stating that “practices that restrict the rights or freedom of movement of people with disability can be traumatic, dangerous and breach basic human rights." Accessing the Resources The Restrictive Practices and Me resources are available for download on the NDIS Commission website . Providers are encouraged to use, adapt, and share these tools to foster informed, respectful, and rights-based conversations with participants. Link : Talking to participants about Restrictive Practices Reference: NDIS Commision 2025-26 priorities focus: participant rights and safer services
By Tharon Neurodivergent Consultant at helpz
