Every person receiving support has rights. The Diverse Collective is committed to support that is safe, respectful and built around the person. This guide explains participant rights and advocacy, including where to find independent help to understand choices, ask questions or speak up about a concern.
Your rights as a participant
You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. You also have the right to privacy, safety, choice and control over your life and support. We will involve you in decisions, listen to what matters to you and communicate in a way that works for you.
Your rights apply from the first conversation and throughout your support. For example, you can ask how a service works, request information before making a decision and take time to consider your options. You can also ask for a support person, family member, nominee or advocate to be involved if you want them there.
- Receive support that is safe, respectful and free from abuse, neglect, violence, exploitation and discrimination.
- Understand information about your support, including costs, agreements and changes.
- Make choices about your goals, routines, support workers and the people you involve.
- Ask questions, request changes or decline support.
- Have your personal information handled carefully and respectfully.
- Give feedback or make a complaint without being treated unfairly.
Choice, control and communication
Your preferences, culture, identity, communication style and accessibility needs matter. You can ask for information in a format that is easier for you to understand. You can involve a family member, guardian, nominee, advocate or another trusted person in conversations if you choose.
We will discuss choices and risks openly. If something is not working, tell us so we can talk through practical next steps together.
Choice and control can look different for each person. It may mean choosing who supports you, deciding how a routine is managed, setting goals, asking for a different way to communicate or reviewing a service agreement. You can change your mind and ask for support to be adjusted when your circumstances change.
What advocacy means
An advocate is independent from your provider. They can help you understand your rights, express your views, make decisions and raise concerns. You can use an advocate at any time. We will not stop you from seeking advocacy or treat you differently because you have asked for support to speak up.
Advocacy can be helpful if you feel unsure about a decision, want support at a meeting, need information explained differently or want someone independent to help you raise an issue. An advocate works for you, not for your provider. You decide what information you want to share and what help you would like.
For independent disability advocacy information, visit the Disability Advocacy Network Australia. You can also read the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission information about participant rights and responsibilities.
Feedback and complaints
You can give feedback or make a complaint in the way that is most accessible for you. Making a complaint will not affect your right to receive safe, respectful and quality support. Read our Complaints and Feedback information, review our Privacy Policy, or contact our friendly team to discuss the next step.
You can also find practical NDIS information in our Helpful Information section. If you are looking for support services, you can explore Our Services before contacting us.