Surveillance technology in SIL accommodation and services

Does surveillance technology harm or hinder safeguarding in SIL accommodation and services?

When a loved one is at risk of seizures, frequent falls, or injury, it’s completely natural to want to do everything possible to keep them safe. Families and supporters often ask whether surveillance cameras can be used in SIL homes to help monitor wellbeing. While the intention is always rooted in care and concern, the use of surveillance technology is rarely approved by the NDIS—and for good reason.

What is surveillance technology?

Surveillance technology includes tools like CCTV cameras, audio recorders, and motion sensors that monitor a person’s movements or environment. In SIL settings, any use of this technology must respect the rights of the individual, especially their right to privacy and dignity, as outlined in the NDIS Act 2013.

The NDIS has clear guidelines that limit the use of surveillance, though in rare and specific cases, it may be considered.

Why might families consider surveillance - and why is it generally discouraged?

Safety concerns: For clients who face ongoing risks, surveillance might seem like a helpful safety net. However, it’s important to remember that cameras don’t prevent incidents—they only record them. The most effective way to ensure safety is through attentive, qualified support staff who are present and engaged.

If current support levels aren’t meeting your loved one’s needs, it may be time to request a plan review for increased funding or staffing ratios. When funding prevents necessary care and support, a NDIS plan review is recommended to ensure appropriate support levels.

Privacy and dignity: Installing cameras in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms is considered highly intrusive and is almost never acceptable. It infringes on a client’s right to privacy and dignity as outlined under the NDIS Code of Conduct. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their own home.

Preventing abuse or neglect: While it might seem like surveillance could deter poor practices, research shows that strong staff training, supervision, and a positive workplace culture are far more effective. Surveillance should never replace these essential safeguards.

For instance, using CCTV might help capture incidents like a client falling or poor or abusive support practices, but it doesn’t prevent such situations from occurring. It’s much more beneficial for a client to receive attentive care from a supervised, qualified support worker than to rely on a camera. CCTV footage needs to be continuously monitored to be effective and disability support workers should actively supporting clients, not looking at a camera screen. It is a risk to rely on cameras being in place when workers need to be actively checking and/or listening out for clients.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes—there are thoughtful alternatives that can support safety without compromising dignity. For example, bed or motion-sensing alarms can alert staff to movement, helping them respond quickly to falls or seizures. These tools can be included in a client’s care plan, developed in partnership with healthcare professionals.

Before any technology is introduced, it’s essential that informed consent is obtained from the client and their support network.

Everyone should understand:

• What technology is being used
• Why it’s being used
• How the information will be used
• Who will have access to it

Most importantly, the client should be at the centre of these conversations, with their voice heard and respected every step of the way.

Complaints and Safeguarding
Families and Supporters who have any concerns about the safeguarding and well-being of a Scope client are encouraged to raise these concerns immediately and our teams will work with you to ensure that any concerns are investigated and addressed.

Our complaints and feedback process is available by clicking this link https://www.scopeaust.org.au/u...