Reportable Incidents
Delivering safe, respectful, and high-quality supports is at the heart of the NDIS. An important part of this commitment is how providers identify, manage, and report incidents—especially those considered reportable incidents.
At Bridges Alliance, we are committed to transparency, safety, and continuous improvement. This guide explains what reportable incidents are, why they matter, and how they are managed in line with NDIS requirements.
What is a Reportable Incident?
A reportable incident is a serious event—or alleged event—that occurs in connection with the delivery of NDIS supports or services and results in harm, or risk of harm, to a participant.
Registered NDIS providers are legally required to notify the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission of all reportable incidents within specific timeframes.
Types of Reportable Incidents
The NDIS outlines several categories of reportable incidents. These include:
Death of a participant
Serious injury (e.g. fractures, burns, head injuries requiring medical care)
Abuse or neglect (including physical, emotional, or financial abuse)
Unlawful sexual or physical contact or assault
Sexual misconduct, including grooming
Unauthorised use of restrictive practices (not in line with a behaviour support plan)
These incidents may be actual or alleged, and must still be reported even if they are under investigation.
Reporting Timeframes
Timely reporting is critical. Providers must notify the NDIS Commission:
Within 24 hours for the most serious incidents (death, serious injury, abuse, assault, sexual misconduct)
Within 5 business days for unauthorised restrictive practices (unless harm has occurred, then within 24 hours)
Failure to report within required timeframes can result in compliance action.
Incident Management: More Than Just Reporting
Every NDIS provider must have an incident management system in place. This system ensures that incidents are:
Identified and recorded
Responded to quickly and appropriately
Investigated where required
Used as a learning opportunity to improve services
Most importantly, the process must prioritise the safety, wellbeing, and dignity of the participant.
Supporting Participants Through Incidents
NDIS requirements emphasise that participants must be:
Informed about what has happened
Supported during and after the incident
Involved in decisions about their care
Given access to advocacy if needed
This reinforces a person-centred approach where participants remain at the heart of every response.
Why Reportable Incidents Matter
Reporting incidents is not just a regulatory requirement—it is essential to:
✔ Protect participants from harm
✔ Ensure accountability and transparency
✔ Improve service quality across the sector
✔ Build trust with participants, families, and communities
A strong reporting culture helps create safer environments for everyone.
Our Commitment at Bridges Alliance
At Bridges Alliance, we are dedicated to:
Upholding the NDIS Code of Conduct
Maintaining robust incident management systems
Responding to incidents with care, urgency, and professionalism
Continuously improving our supports through learning and reflection
We foster a culture where participants, families, and staff feel safe to speak up—because every voice matters.
Final Thoughts
NDIS reportable incidents play a crucial role in safeguarding participants and strengthening the quality of disability support services across Australia.
By understanding what needs to be reported—and why—it empowers everyone involved to contribute to a safer, more inclusive NDIS.
At Bridges Alliance, we stand alongside participants with a clear commitment: safety, dignity, and quality in every interaction.
Need Support or More Information?
If you have questions about incident reporting or your rights under the NDIS, our team at Bridges Alliance is here to help guide you with clarity and care.
