Understanding Positive Behaviour Support in Australia

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an evidence-based, person-centred approach that aims to enhance the lives of people with disabilities who exhibit behaviours of concern. 

In Australia, PBS is a critical component of the NDIS, assisting participants in developing skills, enhancing relationships, and minimising the use of restrictive practices. 

By emphasising an understanding of the underlying causes of behaviours and supporting positive alternatives, PBS practitioners strive to achieve genuine, sustainable changes in quality of life. 

There are already numerous families and carers who have witnessed the life-altering benefits of gaining access to positive behaviour support in Australia through their NDIS plans.

Eligibility and NDIS Funding for Positive Behaviour Support

In order to access PBS via the NDIS, participants must show that the support is both reasonable and necessary in their situation. This need is typically determined by professional reports, allied health provider reports, or observed behaviors affecting daily living. 

In an NDIS plan, PBS is generally funded under Capacity Building – Improved Relationships. This category supports specialist behaviour interventions, including assessments and continuing implementation support. In certain circumstances, daily living assistance can also incorporate aspects of behaviour support. 

Notably, the NDIS only subsidises providers registered to provide positive behaviour support within Australia, assuring standardised standards and protections for participants.

Steps to Include Positive Behaviour Support in Your NDIS Plan

Securing PBS in your plan starts with recognising the need. If behaviours are impacting the participant's safety, development, or inclusion in everyday settings, it’s time to seek support. 

The next step is raising this during your planning or plan review meeting. You’ll want to come prepared—with reports from psychologists, occupational therapists, or GPs, outlining the behaviours and recommending positive behaviour support. 

Your planner or LAC will take these into account when making a funding decision. 

Thereafter, once funded, you can hire a specialist behaviour support provider who will do a functional behaviour assessment and develop an individualised behaviour support plan. 

Having PBS goals included in your plan provides accountability and definition of the outcomes you're aiming for.

Finding Help and Taking the Next Step

You don't need to go through this by yourself. 

Support coordinators, plan managers, and allied health workers can all assist you to identify and connect with appropriate PBS providers. 

Numerous registered positive behaviour support providers in Australia provide end-to-end services—from assessment through to plan development and implementation coaching. 

By engaging with the appropriate team, participants and their families receive helpful strategies, individualised support, and reassurance that assistance is grounded in best practice. 

Seeking assistance isn't only intelligent—it's quite often the turning point towards sustained behavioural change and a more empowered lifestyle under the NDIS.