Safeguarding and reporting abuse for support workers
Recognising signs of abuse and neglect, your duty to act, reporting pathways, mandatory reporting, and how to support participants safely as an independent worker.
Your role in keeping people safe
The forms abuse and neglect can take
Recognising the signs
If a participant discloses to you
Your duty to act
Mandatory reporting — where it applies
Reporting pathways
Supporting the participant through it
Being a proactive safeguard, not just a reporter
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I suspect a participant is being abused?
Take it seriously. Note factually what you observed, keep the person safe, and report through the right pathway without delay — call 000 for immediate danger, and report NDIS-related abuse to the NDIS Commission. Don't investigate or confront the alleged abuser yourself; that can worsen the situation and compromise any…
Is mandatory reporting required for support workers?
It can be, depending on your state or territory and the situation, especially for suspected child abuse or neglect. Mandatory reporting laws are set at state and territory level and vary. Check the current rules for your location. Regardless, the NDIS Code of Conduct requires every worker to act on abuse and neglect.
What do I do if a participant tells me they're being abused?
Listen calmly without judgement, reassure them it's not their fault, and don't press for details or promise secrecy. Explain gently that you need to pass it on to keep them safe. Record what they said factually, using their words where you can, and report it promptly through the appropriate pathway.
Where do I report abuse of an NDIS participant?
For immediate danger or a crime, call 000. For abuse or neglect connected to NDIS supports, report to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, which accepts reports from workers and the public. For a child at risk, contact your state or territory child protection service. Also inform the participant's support team…
Can confidentiality stop me from reporting abuse?
No. Confidentiality never means covering up abuse. Safeguarding obligations override confidentiality when someone is at serious risk of harm, and the Code of Conduct requires you to act. You may and should share the information needed to protect the person and to report to the right authority.
What are the signs of abuse or neglect to watch for?
Watch for unexplained injuries, sudden behaviour changes such as withdrawal or fear around a particular person, poor hygiene or untreated health issues, missing money or possessions, reluctance to speak in front of someone, and any direct or indirect disclosure. Signs aren't proof, but they are prompts to pay attention…