In the disability sector, investigations play a key role in providing safer and better-quality services. By conducting investigations, providers can uncover what went wrong, prevent similar incidents from happening again, and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with disability. The process can also help rebuild trust and relationships. NDS has produced a suite of resources for providers to support their investigations 
 
In developing the resources, NDS consulted providers, participants, auditors and the NDIS Commission. These consultations highlighted the need for resources to help address inconsistencies and increase the knowledge about processes for conducting investigations. Our investigation resources are aimed at staff who have responsibility for conducting investigations. 
 
As a provider, you have an obligation to investigate whenever there is an allegation, observation or report of abuse or neglect. Investigations are important because they help keep people safe, they support open disclosure, and they form the basis for continuous improvement processes.  

The NDS investigation resources will help providers to: 

• have better understanding of what has caused an incident 
• investigate to help resolve a complaint 
• understand that different incidents will require distinct types of investigations 
• follow basic principles within an investigation to make it person-centred, confidential, procedurally fair, timely, well-communicated and fully documented 
• understand and follow the necessary steps after an investigation. 

There are eight Investigations resources in the NDS RICM set, including accessible versions. There is also an interactive pdf guide and a film and animation overview, which goes through the purpose and steps of an investigation.  

You’ll also find among the resources: 

• Conducting Investigations Policy Checklist 
• For participants — how we investigate incidents 
• Investigation Procedure Checklist 
• Investigation Action Plan Template 
• Identification and Analysis of Evidence 
• Investigation Interview Tips 
• Communication Plan Handout 
• Conducting Investigations Booklet (in the Incident Management resources). 

The resources follow an easy-to-use “what do I do? what do I say? what do I record? and what do I report?” format. They are general, best used as a guide. You may need to make adjustments depending on the size of your service and the supports you provide. 
 
The resources can be used online or printed and are easily adapted to your organisation’s needs and requirements. Resources can be used for training for service providers and staff to increase organisational understanding and awareness.