09/09/2026
Sometimes, “I can't make a decision yet” is not indecision. It is the safest and most responsible answer.
In Behaviour Support, plans must be completed within strict timeframes. Yet a deadline does not guarantee that the practitioner has received the medical information, assessments or other evidence needed to make a safe decision about a restrictive practice.
This leaves an uncomfortable question: what should a practitioner do when they cannot safely say “yes” — but the evidence does not support saying “no” either?
At the ACRRE Emerging Leaders Program, Beyond Restrictions explored this question using real-world case examples. Everyone received the same information and voted using red and green cards.
The room divided.
That is why we have been talking about another way of communicating the practitioner’s professional decision:
🟠 Not yet.
“Not yet” is not permission to continue a restrictive practice, and it is not a new authorisation category. It is a clear statement that the evidence needed to make a safe decision is not yet available.
For participants, families, providers and specialist panelists, this clarity matters. It identifies what information is missing, why it matters and what needs to happen next to safeguard the participant.
The plan may be due. That does not mean the evidence is available yet.
We have written more about the “not yet” concept, how it is being used at Beyond Restrictions and why we believe this conversation matters across every Australian state and territory.
Read the full article here: https://beyondrestrictions.com.au/the-not-yet-framework
We would genuinely love to hear your thoughts—whether you support the concept, have questions or are still deciding what you think.
