Understanding Choice and Control in the NDIS
- Clean&Personal
- Sep 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 6
What is Choice and Control?
Choice and control refer to a person's ability to make their own decisions about supports and services. This includes the right to choose which organisation provides your NDIS cleaning service, which may differ from other services.
Imagine Sarah, a 22-year-old NDIS participant. When she first joined the scheme, she had little say over who provided her support workers. Now, thanks to improved plan flexibility and stronger provider accountability, Sarah can select a support worker she connects with, set her preferred schedule, and even change providers as her needs evolve. That is what real choice and control look like. It includes freedom, flexibility, and dignity for the participant.
The Rise of Choice and Control
According to the Q3 2024-2025 NDIS Quarterly Report, 81% of participants aged 15 and over say that the NDIS has helped them have more choice and control over their own lives. This number is up from 67% in previous years. This means people like Sarah are experiencing more freedom, flexibility, and dignity than they did last year.
Younger participants aged 15-24 are also seeing improvements. Their satisfaction increased from 61% at entry to the scheme to more than 70% after two years.
Additionally, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that around four out of five participants aged 15-64 in the scheme now feel they have more choice and control than before.
These statistics reflect the real experiences of NDIS participants. They show individuals gaining more freedom to make decisions about their supports, services, and futures. All this points to an increase in choice and control, bolstered by enhanced community participation, employment, and independence. When participants feel empowered, the benefits ripple across all areas of their lives.
Are Reforms Working?
Yes, several recent changes are driving this progress:
Clearer Boundaries on NDIS Funding
The 'Getting the NDIS Back on Track' legislation provides stronger definitions of what counts as a support and what does not.
Stronger Safeguards and Oversight
The NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission focuses on reducing restrictive practices and ensuring providers prioritise participant rights.
Improved Sustainability
Scheme growth is stabilising, strengthening confidence that support will be available in the future.
Combined, the efforts to improve the NDIS are working, particularly regarding choice and control. It is essential for everyone involved in the scheme to support this fundamental right at every opportunity.
The Importance of Choice and Control
Choice and control are vital for NDIS participants. They allow individuals to tailor their supports to fit their unique needs. This empowerment leads to greater satisfaction and improved outcomes.
When participants can choose their services, they feel more in control of their lives. This sense of autonomy can significantly impact their overall well-being. It fosters a sense of independence and encourages participants to engage more fully in their communities.
Building Connections
Having choice and control also helps participants build connections. When they select their support workers, they can choose individuals who understand their needs and preferences. This connection can lead to better support and a more positive experience overall.
Enhancing Quality of Life
Ultimately, choice and control enhance the quality of life for participants. They can make decisions that align with their values and goals. This autonomy is crucial for personal growth and development.
In conclusion, the NDIS is making strides in promoting choice and control. These reforms are essential for empowering participants and ensuring they can live fulfilling lives.
Reference List
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2024). NDIS Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track) Act 2024. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/topics/disability-and-carers/reforms-and-reviews/ndis-act-changes
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2025). NDIS participants choice and control – Personal and community support. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/australias-disability-strategy/outcomes/personal-and-community-support/ndis-participants-choice-and-control
National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). (2025). NDIS Quarterly Report to Disability Ministers. Retrieved from https://www.ndis.gov.au/media/7708/download
National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). (2025). Stronger NDIS improving the lives of participants. Retrieved from https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10850-stronger-ndis-improving-lives-participants
National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). (2025). NDIS data highlights: Further improvement to scheme sustainability and participant outcomes. Retrieved from https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10608-ndis-data-highlights-further-improvement-scheme-sustainability-and-participant-outcomes
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. (2025). NDIS Commission sets 2025–26 priorities with a focus on participant rights and safer services. Retrieved from https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/media-centre/ndis-commission-sets-2025-26-priorities-focus-participant-rights-and-safer-services
