Growth Hub Articles
💜 The heart of the NDIS — not just a policy, but a promise
When you work in the NDIS, you’ll hear these words again and again: Choice. Control. Dignity.
They sound simple — but in real life, they’re often misunderstood or forgotten when shifts get busy or challenging.
Choice and control aren’t just about letting someone make a decision.
They’re about giving every person the freedom and respect to live life their way.
🌸 What “Choice and Control” really means
In simple terms:
- Choice means people decide what’s best for them.
- Control means they have the power to make it happen — with your support, not your direction.
It’s about doing with, not doing for.
When you understand this difference, your entire approach to support changes.
You stop asking, “What should I do for them?”
And start asking, “How can I support them to do it themselves?”
🌿 Real-life example: the small moments that matter
Let’s say a participant chooses to make breakfast, even if it takes 30 minutes longer.
You might feel the urge to step in — to help, to save time, to avoid mess.
But by letting them lead, you’re giving them something far more valuable than a perfect sandwich — you’re giving them independence and pride.
That’s what true Choice and Control looks like.
💜 How to apply it on every shift
- Ask first. “Would you like my help with that?”
- Offer options. “Would you like to go for a walk or do some cooking today?”
- Respect decisions. Even if they’re not what you’d choose.
- Encourage independence. Support, don’t take over.
💬 These small actions show that you see the person — not just their plan.
🌸 Why this matters for support workers
When you uphold Choice and Control, you’re not just following the NDIS framework — you’re building trust, respect, and lasting relationships.
Participants start to feel safe, valued, and in charge of their lives again.
And that’s when the real progress begins.
Because dignity starts with the freedom to choose.
🌿 The next step in your growth
If you’re ready to build confidence and apply NDIS values with calm professionalism, my eBook “Your First Step as an NDIS Support Worker” breaks it all down — from communication and ethics to daily practice.
It’s your real-world guide to becoming a confident, trusted support worker.