Media statement – Use of restrictive practices in Victoria

On Sunday 23 November 2025, The Sunday Age published a story titled “Intellectually disabled man unlawfully detained for 25 years” that mentioned the use of restrictive practices on a Scope client. The following statement was provided to The Age to inform the story.

Scope is committed to upholding the rights, safety and wellbeing of every person we support.

We have robust safeguarding systems in place, including comprehensive behaviour support processes, specialist oversight, and regular collaboration and information sharing with regulators. Behaviour Support Plans are developed by qualified experts, implemented by trained staff, and reviewed in line with all relevant legislation, regulations and guidelines.

In Victoria, these plans are shared with and subject to authorisation and approval by the Victorian Senior Practitioner (VSP), who is responsible for regulating the use of restrictive practices and ensuring they comply with the Disability Act 2006 (Vic).

Scope applies a least-restrictive approach to all behaviour support. Restrictive practices are only used when absolutely necessary to prevent harm and in accordance with legal requirements, human rights obligations, and positive behaviour support principles. We have a dedicated internal team that works closely with the VSP to review any restrictive interventions and ensure mandatory reporting, authorisations and safeguards are consistently met.

Regarding the VCAT matter involving the participant known as “VES”

Out of respect for the privacy, dignity and wellbeing of the individual and staff involved, Scope will not comment on the specific circumstances of the case. However, we can address the broader issues raised.

Awareness of the restrictive circumstances and appropriateness of supports

Decisions regarding the appropriateness of these measures rest with the Victorian Senior Practitioner and VCAT, who determine what is necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the client, staff and the community.

Scope is aware of the restrictive practices used to support our client. In July 2024, Scope submitted an application to VCAT for a Supervised Treatment Order (STO), consistent with the regulatory process for authorising certain restrictive practices under Victorian law.

Scope’s awareness of approval requirements

Scope’s application to VCAT for an STO is consistent with the authorisation processes required in Victoria for the use of certain restrictive practices. These matters are ultimately determined by the VSP and the Tribunal.

Actions taken following the VCAT finding

Scope has worked closely with the Office of the Victorian Senior Practitioner throughout this process. We have received confirmation from the VSP that they are satisfied with the steps we have taken following the Tribunal’s findings in December 2024.

These actions were based on directions provided by the VSP in April 2025 and implemented to ensure supports remain safe, compliant and least restrictive.

Notification and approval by regulators

In Victoria, decisions regarding the authorisation and approval of restrictive practices are made by the Victorian Senior Practitioner.

Scope fully complies with all obligations to notify the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission of reportable incidents, including any unauthorised restrictive practices.

Broader review of practices

Scope is strongly committed to ensuring all supports are delivered safely, respectfully and in accordance with human rights law. We continually review our practices across all services to ensure they comply with the Disability Act 2006 (Vic), the Victorian Charter of Human Rights, and the positive behaviour support approaches required by the NDIS Commission.

Where restrictive practices are required to prevent harm, they are always applied in the least restrictive manner possible and subject to extensive internal oversight and external regulation.