Your Rights as an NDIS Participant
As an NDIS participant, you have strong rights under Australian law. You have the right to choose your providers, control your supports, make complaints, and access independent advocacy — all without fear of losing your funding or services.
Your Fundamental Rights
The NDIS Act 2013 and the NDIS Code of Conduct establish clear rights for all NDIS participants. Every provider and support worker must respect these rights.
NDIS Quality and Safeguards
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is the independent body that oversees NDIS providers across Australia. Its role is to ensure participants receive safe, quality supports. The Commission:
- Registers and audits NDIS providers against Practice Standards.
- Screens workers through the NDIS Worker Screening Check.
- Investigates complaints and reports of harm or abuse.
- Enforces the NDIS Code of Conduct for all providers and workers.
- Manages reportable incidents and monitors provider compliance.
How to Make a Complaint
If you are unhappy with a provider, feel unsafe, or believe your rights are not being respected, you have the right to make a complaint. Here is the recommended process:
Speak with your provider directly
Most issues can be resolved by raising them directly with your provider. Ask to speak to a manager or use their formal complaints process.
Contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
If the issue is not resolved, or if you feel unsafe, contact the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544. They handle complaints about NDIS providers and workers.
Seek help from an advocate
A disability advocate can support you through the complaints process for free. They can help you express your concerns and ensure your voice is heard.
Contact the NDIA directly
For issues about your plan, funding decisions, or NDIA processes, contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or request an internal review of a decision.
In an emergency: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, always call 000 first. For non-emergency safety concerns, call the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544.
Free Advocacy Services
A disability advocate is someone who can help you speak up about your needs, navigate the NDIS, and resolve disputes. Advocacy services are free and independent of the NDIA and providers.
Advocates can help you with plan reviews, complaints, understanding your rights, and communicating with providers or the NDIA.
Find Verified, Trusted NDIS Providers
On Seekara, providers display verified credentials and real participant reviews so you can make informed, confident choices about your supports.