Restrictive practices are formally defined by the NDIS as any practice or intervention that has the effect of restricting the rights or freedom of movement of a person with a disability. The NDIS Commission oversees the use of restrictive practices, and Behaviour Support Practitioners oversee the implementation of restrictive practices. Please refer to the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 for more information.

A regulated restrictive practice may be used in escalating situations. The goal of restrictive practices is to uphold the safety of the participant as well as those around them, if presented with potentially harmful behaviours of concern (NDIS 2020a). 

There are five types of restrictive practices identified in the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018:

1. Chemical Restraint:

• The use of medication for the primary purpose of influencing a person’s behaviour 

• It does not include medication prescribed by a medical practitioner for the treatment of physical or mental conditions 

1. Environmental Restraint:

• Restricts a person’s free access to all parts of their environment, including items or activities 

1. Mechanical Restraint:

• The use of a device to prevent, restrict, or subdue a person’s movement for the primary purpose of influencing a person’s behaviour

• It does not include the use of devices for therapeutic or non-behavioural purposes 

1. Physical Restraint:

• The use or action of physical force to prevent, restrict or subdue movement of a person’s body, or a part of their body, for the primary purpose of influencing their behaviour

• It does not include the use of a hands-on technique in a reflexive way or to redirect a person from potential harm 

1. Seclusion:

• The sole confinement of a person with a disability where voluntary exist is prevented, not facilitated, or it is implied that voluntary exit is not permitted 

Restrictive practices may breach human rights. They must only be used if there are no other suitable options available, and for the shortest amount of time possible (NDIS 2020a). 

A Behaviour Support Plan that has been developed by an NDIS registered Behaviour Support Practitioner, and based on a behavioural assessment, may include regulated restrictive practices, if required (NDIS 2024a). A Behaviour Support Plan that contains restrictive practices should be reviewed annually (NDIS 2024a). 

A reportable incident under the NDIS includes the unauthorised use of restrictive practice. This means that the NDIS Commission must be notified if the unauthorised use of a restrictive practice occurs (NDIS 2019). The implementing provider of restrictive practices must make monthly reports to the NDIS Commission through the NDIS Commission Portal (NDIS 2020b).