Restraint Minimisation Safe Use Training

The use of restraints and restrictive practices in aged care is one of the most heavily regulated — and ethically significant — areas of care. This training guide helps staff understand the legal requirements for authorising and monitoring restraint, the primacy of least-restrictive alternatives, and how to document restrictive practices in compliance with the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards.

Published

May 29, 2026

Restraint Minimisation and Safe Use Training for Aged Care

Restraint and restrictive practices in aged care carry significant ethical, legal and clinical implications. Under the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards and the Aged Care Act 2024, the use of any restrictive practice must be a last resort — authorised, documented, reviewed and always aimed at minimisation. This training guide equips your team with the knowledge to implement restraint minimisation principles and safely manage any approved restrictive practice.

What This Training Covers

Definitions — physical restraint, chemical restraint, environmental and mechanical restraint
The legal framework for restrictive practices in Australian aged care
When restraint may be used — the conditions and authorisation requirements
The role of the consumer, family, GP and Behaviour Support Practitioner
Least-restrictive alternatives — what to try before restraint
Monitoring a consumer in restraint — frequency, signs of distress
Documentation requirements for restrictive practice authorisation and review
SIRS reporting obligations for unexpected or unplanned restraint use

Key Learning Outcomes

Define the different types of restrictive practices in aged care
Describe the legal requirements for authorising restraint under the Aged Care Act 2024
Identify and apply at least three alternatives before considering restraint
Safely monitor a consumer under an approved restrictive practice
Accurately complete restrictive practice documentation and review records

Who Should Complete This Training

All direct care staff, RNs and clinical managers. PCAs should understand what constitutes a restrictive practice, what requires authorisation, and how to report concerns. RNs and managers should be able to complete authorisation documentation and lead reviews.

Alignment to the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards

Directly relevant to Standard 5 (Clinical Care) — which explicitly addresses restrictive practices and requires an evidence-based, least-restrictive approach — and Standard 1 (The Person), which upholds the right of every consumer to dignity, autonomy and freedom from unnecessary restriction.

Manage Restrictive Practice Records Safely with Governa

Governa helps aged care providers maintain compliant restrictive practice records, track review dates, and ensure authorisations align to your facility's policies — reducing risk of SIRS notification failures and audit findings.

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