A Policy-Aligned Look at the National Framework for Reducing and Eliminating the Use of Restrictive Practices
Thesis Question:
Can Australia truly move beyond restrictive practices in disability services, while ensuring safety, dignity, and legal compliance across diverse settings?
Upholding Human Rights in Practice
Australia’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is the foundation for the National Framework for Reducing and Eliminating the Use of Restrictive Practices in the Disability Service Sector. Restrictive practices, such as seclusion, physical or mechanical restraint, and chemical restraint, must only be used as a last resort, and only when justified to prevent harm.
A Nationally Consistent Approach
The Framework promotes shared definitions and consistent strategies across all jurisdictions, ensuring that disability services adhere to minimum standards. Definitions include restrictive practice, seclusion, chemical, mechanical, and physical restraints, and also acknowledge additional practices like environmental or consequence-based restraint.
The Six Core Strategies for Change
1. Person-Centred Focus – Use evidence-based methods to engage individuals and their advocates in behavioural planning.
2. Leadership – Drive organisational change with support from senior leadership and robust governance structures, refer A conversation with Leanne Lilley (Positive Behaviour Support)
3. Use of Data – Regularly collect and review data to reduce and track the use of restrictive practices, such as the data collected in an ABC Chart
4. Workforce Development – Train staff in trauma-informed care, de-escalation, and positive behaviour support.
5. Reduction Tools – Use therapeutic interventions, meaningful activities, and environmental changes, refer to Positive Behaviour Support training.
6. Debriefing – post-incident debriefs and reviews involving the person with disability to improve practice.
Implementation Pathway
NDIS integration is underway, but state and territory laws continue to apply. National data collection and performance indicators are crucial to evaluating the success of the Framework.
Conclusion: From Aspiration to Action
The Framework is not just about compliance, but about cultural change. The real challenge is putting person-centred values into daily practice.
Are we applying these principles consistently, not just in policy, but in everyday service delivery?
Author: Gina Ingrouille (Effective Policy)
Reference: National Framework for Reducing and Eliminating the Use of Restrictive Practices If you are seeking an organisational-wide understanding of positive behaviour support and the obligations of an Implementing Restrictive Practices speak with a consultant about organising a quote for custom training – www.effectivepolicy.com.au/chat