What is a Restrictive Practice?

A restrictive practice is any action that limits a person with disability’s rights or freedom of movement. Under the NDIS (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018, five types of regulated restrictive practices must follow strict rules and oversight from the NDIS Commission.

5 types of regulated Restrictive Practices in the NDIS

1. Seclusion

Definition: Locking someone alone in a room or space where they can't leave or believe they can't leave.

Examples:

• Locking a child in a room as “time out”
• Leaving someone locked alone at home
• Telling a child they can’t leave their room until they calm down

2. Chemical Restraint

Definition: Giving medication to control behaviour (not to treat a diagnosed illness).

Examples:

• Medication for aggression or self-injury without a diagnosed mental illness
• Sedating someone to manage behaviours of concern

3. Mechanical Restraint

Definition: Using a device to control movement or behaviour (not for medical or therapy reasons).

Examples:

• Splints or helmets to stop self-harm
• Bodysuits to stop access to parts of the body
• Belts or straps used to restrict movement

4. Physical Restraint

Definition: Using physical force to stop movement or manage behaviour (not gentle guidance).

Examples:

• Holding someone’s hands to stop self-harm
• Forcing a person to move somewhere they don’t want to go

Note: Some forms of physical restraint are banned or restricted in many states due to safety risks.

5. Environmental Restraint

Definition: Blocking access to parts of the environment or possessions.

Examples:

• Locking doors, fridges, or cupboards
• Preventing access to personal items or usual spaces (e.g. bathroom, backyard)