Last updated 5/5/20261 minute to read

Overview of behaviour support with restrictive practice

Communicating the APO role to others

A common problem reported by Authorised Program Officers (APOs) is communicating the complexity of their role to others. 

This can be to Behaviour Support Practitioners, who may consider the APO more of a ‘rubber stamp’ formality. 

This may also be to the APO’s organisation, including the depth of expertise and level of responsibility managed.  

Importantly, APOs need to be able to explain their role to the people with disability who are relying on them to ensure their legal and human rights are upheld and that their behaviour support plans are safe and effective.   

 

New APOs also report needing help understanding the process and detail of their role. 

Ensuring the APO themselves and those they work with have a clear understanding of an APO’s scope is important when working together.  

It is also essential when allocating the resources APOs need to do their job correctly, safely and legally. 

Several process maps have been developed to support APOs in understanding the process of reviewing, assessing and authorising restrictive practices and explaining your role (and timeframes required) to others. 

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)-funded process 

  • View NDIS process overview (printable PDF)
  • View Step 1: Appointing an Authorised Program Officer (printable PDF)
  • View Step 2: Interim behaviour support plan (printable PDF)
  • View Step 3: Comprehensive behaviour support plan (printable PDF) 

  • View Step 4: Review process, reporting & audits (printable PDF) 

     

Disability service provider process 

  • View disability service provider process overview (printable PDF)
  • View Step 1: Appointing an Authorised Program Officer (printable PDF)
  • View Step 2: Comprehensive behaviour support plan (printable PDF)
  • View Step 3: Review process, reporting & audits (printable PDF) 

 

 

Introduction