Effective NDIS Code of Conduct training is essential for building a compliant and safe disability support organisation. This guide covers everything you need to know about developing and delivering Code of Conduct training programs.
Why is NDIS Code of Conduct Training Important?
Training on the NDIS Code of Conduct is not just a compliance requirement—it’s the foundation of quality disability support. Proper training ensures:
- Workers understand their obligations
- Participants receive safe, quality services
- Organisations meet regulatory requirements
- A culture of compliance is established
- Risk of breaches is minimised
Training Requirements Under the NDIS
Mandatory Training Elements
All workers must receive training that covers:
- The Seven Requirements of the Code
- Understanding each requirement in detail
- Practical application in daily work
- Examples and scenarios
- Rights of People with Disability
- Human rights framework
- Supported decision-making
- Dignity of risk
- Reporting Obligations
- Incident reporting requirements
- Mandatory reporting
- Internal escalation processes
- Professional Boundaries
- Appropriate relationships
- Conflict of interest
- Maintaining professionalism
Who Needs Training?
- All new employees during induction
- Existing staff (refresher training)
- Contractors and agency workers
- Volunteers
- Board members and management
Developing Your Training Program
Step 1: Assess Training Needs
Before developing training, assess:
- Current knowledge levels
- Role-specific requirements
- Previous training completed
- Learning preferences
- Language and accessibility needs
Step 2: Design Training Content
Effective training content should include:
Core Modules:
- Introduction to the NDIS
- Overview of the Code of Conduct
- Detailed review of each requirement
- Case studies and scenarios
- Assessment components
Role-Specific Modules:
- Direct support workers
- Supervisors and team leaders
- Management and executives
- Administrative staff
Step 3: Choose Delivery Methods
Consider various delivery options:
Face-to-Face Training:
- Interactive workshops
- Group discussions
- Role-playing exercises
- Q&A sessions
Online Training:
- E-learning modules
- Video content
- Interactive quizzes
- Self-paced learning
Blended Approach:
- Combination of online and face-to-face
- Pre-reading followed by workshops
- Online assessment with in-person follow-up
Free Training Resources
NDIS Worker Orientation Module
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission provides a free online training module covering:
- Introduction to the NDIS
- Rights of participants
- Code of Conduct overview
- Supporting choice and control
- Reporting obligations
Additional Commission Resources
- Code of Conduct fact sheets
- Guidance materials
- Easy read versions
- Translated materials
Training Best Practices
Make Training Engaging
- Use real-world examples
- Include interactive elements
- Encourage discussion and questions
- Provide practical exercises
- Use multiple formats
Ensure Understanding
- Test knowledge through assessments
- Require minimum passing scores
- Provide feedback on incorrect answers
- Offer remedial training when needed
Document Everything
Maintain records of:
- Training attendance
- Assessment results
- Competency sign-offs
- Refresher training dates
- Trainer qualifications
Training Frequency
Recommended Schedule
- Induction: Comprehensive training before commencing work
- Annual Refreshers: Update training yearly
- Trigger-Based Training: After incidents or regulatory changes
- Ongoing Reinforcement: Regular reminders and updates
Assessing Training Effectiveness
Evaluation Methods
- Knowledge Assessments
- Written tests
- Practical demonstrations
- Scenario-based questions
- Behavioural Observation
- Workplace audits
- Supervision discussions
- Participant feedback
- Outcome Measures
- Incident rates
- Complaint trends
- Compliance audit results
Common Training Mistakes to Avoid
- One-off training without refreshers
- Generic content not tailored to your services
- No assessment of understanding
- Poor record keeping
- Treating training as a tick-box exercise
Conclusion
Effective NDIS Code of Conduct training is an investment in quality and safety. By developing comprehensive training programs, using engaging delivery methods, and maintaining proper documentation, organisations can build a workforce that truly understands and lives the Code of Conduct every day.
For more resources on NDIS compliance training, visit our NDIS Compliance Hub or access the free NDIS Worker Orientation Module from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.