Customers Rights under the NDIS
It is crucial to have knowledge of your consumer rights when you in the process of purchasing, leasing, or hiring assistive technology (AT), or arranging for the repair or maintenance of your AT. The Australian Consumer Law is in place to provide you with rights in case of any issues with the equipment or supporting services, even after the manufacturer's or supplier's warranty period has passed. However, it is important to note that not all of these laws are applicable when purchasing something privately, such as from a friend, garage sale, or someone selling an item they've owned. If you are not satisfied with the quality of services or feel unsafe with your provider, it is recommended to speak up and contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. By doing so, you can help to improve services not only for yourself but also for other people. Additionally, you may want to talk to your provider first to see if they can rectify the situation. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provides a range of resources for consumers to help them understand their rights.
The NDIS Commission is dedicated to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided with the right to safety and quality services. This is achieved empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their support services, while ensuring that appropriate protections are in place to safeguard their rights. The Commission's commitment to upholding the rights of people with disabilities is in line with Australia's commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. TheDIS Code of Conduct is a tool that helps providers and workers respect and uphold these rights, thereby supporting a strong and viable market for disability supports and services.
Based on the NDIS Code of Conduct, providers and workers are required to act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination and decision-making in accordance with relevant laws and conventions. They must also respect the privacy of people disability and provide supports and services in a safe and competent manner with care and skill. Additionally, they are expected to act with integrity, honesty, and transparency, and promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that might have an impact on the quality and safety of supports provided to people with disability. Finally, they must take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond all forms of violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse, as well as prevent sexual misconduct.
The NDIS Code of Conduct applies to a wide range of providers, including registered and un NDIS providers, NDIA community partners such as LAC and ECEI providers, providers delivering information, linkages, and capacity building activities, and providers delivering Commonwealth Continuity of Support Programme services for people over the age of 65. It is important for all providers to understand and comply with the Code of Conduct to ensure the safety and wellbeing of NDIS participants.
