Creating an NDIS Reportable Incident Report

Transparency and accountability are some of the core principles of the NDIS. To maximise the safety, well-being and rights of participants, they outlined a list of reportable incidents that providers must notify the NDIS. It’s worth knowing these incidents to ensure the quality of care you deliver as a provider or receive as a participant. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of NDIS reportable incidents and how to put in an incident report on the NDIS Commission.  

What is an NDIS Reportable Incident?

Before we go into how to do an NDIS reportable incident report, let’s understand these incidents and what they cover. Reportable incidents are serious events caused by or associated with providers and the quality of care they deliver that harms participants. They cover a wide range of events, including:

  • Injury
  • Neglect
  • Abuse
  • Unlawful physical contact or sexual assault
  • Death

If such incidents happen, providers must notify the NDIS Commission immediately. Participants may also make reportable incidents to the NDIS Commission. The NDIS Commission will investigate and take appropriate action. Serious offences may lead to suspension or the cancellation of the provider’s registration with the NDIS, as well as legal consequences. 

It’s important to know how to do an NDIS reportable incident report as it addresses the immediate concerns of participants and their families. Furthermore, this practice reinforces the commitment to providing the highest standards of care within the disability support sector. It protects the rights of participants. 

How to do an NDIS Reportable Incident report: A step-by-step guide

Registered providers can put in incident reports on the NDIS Commission Portal. For more information, here’s our detailed guide on how to put in an incident report on the NDIS Commission: 

1. Notify the NDIS Commission

The first critical step is to notify the NDIS Commission within 24 hours of becoming aware of the reportable incident. Log into the NDIS Commission Portal and fill up the Immediate Notification Form with the required information. 

2. Submit a 5-Day Form

Following the initial notification, submit a 5-Day Form within the stipulated timeframe. This provides an in-depth account of the incident, including the circumstances of the event, the individuals involved and the immediate action you took to address the situation. Submit the form within five business days.

3. Submit a final report, if required

In certain cases, the NDIS Commission may request a final report for a more detailed and comprehensive overview of the reportable incident. This delves deeper into the root causes, preventive measures and impact on the participant. 

Providers looking for a guide on how to do an NDIS reportable incident report should also consider putting these tips into practice: 

  • Be thorough with documentation — Note essential details, timelines and actions taken. Clear and concise documentation fulfils reporting requirements and serves as a crucial resource for internal audits. 
  • Apply a participant-centred approach — Prioritise participants’ rights, well-being and dignity. Communicate effectively with the participant and their support network to maintain transparency and build trust. 
  • Implement preventive measures — Use the insights gained from reportable incidents to improve the delivery of your support. These may involve changes in procedures and additional staff training.

Avoid NDIS reportable incidents with Healthcare Consulting

Enhance your organisation’s commitment to quality NDIS supports and services by partnering with Healthcare Consulting. Our expert team will not only teach you how to do NDIS reportable incident reports but also how to avoid them in the first place. Get tailored guidance to ensure your compliance with NDIS Practice Standards and protect the rights of participants. Contact us today for applicable solutions!