The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights

The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights (The Code) became law on 1 July 1996. It grants a number of rights to all consumers of health and disability services and places corresponding obligations on providers of those services.

The Code is reviewed regularly. 

The obligations of The Code apply both to individual providers, such as doctors, nurses and dentists, and to provider organisations, such as hospitals and other health and disability organisations.

Health and Disability Advocacy Service

The Health and Disability Advocacy Service was set up to make sure that consumers' rights under The Code are upheld. The service is free, confidential and independent.

Advocates advise people of their rights and of the actions they can take if they have a concern about a health or disability service. The advocate will support and help you in the actions you choose to take to resolve your concerns.