Behaviour Support and the NDIS: How Coordination Makes a Difference
Challenging behaviours can impact a person’s ability to feel safe, connected, and independent. For many NDIS participants and their families, understanding how to access positive behaviour support is a key part of building a more stable and empowered life. But knowing where to start—and how to connect the right supports—can be overwhelming.
At APTOS, we specialise in support coordination that connects participants with behaviour support services that are effective, respectful, and person-centred. In this guide, we’ll explore what behaviour support is, what the NDIS can fund, and how coordination makes all the difference.
What Is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive behaviour support (PBS) is a person-centred approach to understanding and responding to challenging behaviours. Rather than focusing on punishment or control, PBS aims to:
- Understand the reasons behind behaviours of concern
- Develop proactive strategies to reduce triggers
- Teach new skills and coping mechanisms
- Promote wellbeing, independence, and dignity
This approach is often used for participants with intellectual disability, autism, acquired brain injury, or psychosocial disability—but it can benefit anyone experiencing behaviour-related challenges.
How the NDIS Supports Behaviour Needs
The NDIS funds behaviour support under the “Improved Relationships” category of Capacity Building Supports. This may include:
- Specialist behaviour intervention and assessments
- Functional behaviour assessments (FBA)
- Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs)
- Training for carers and support workers
- Monitoring and ongoing strategy review
In more complex cases, restrictive practices (e.g. physical restraint, medication) may be addressed—but only as a last resort and under strict regulation.
Examples of Funded Behaviour Supports
Depending on your needs, the NDIS may fund:
- Sessions with a registered behaviour support practitioner
- Development of a Positive Behaviour Support Plan
- Support worker training tailored to your specific strategies
- Collaborative planning between family, schools, or health professionals
- Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to behaviour strategies
The Role of Support Coordination in Behaviour Support
Support coordination is a vital part of making sure behaviour support is not only funded—but actually works in real life. At APTOS, our coordinators help participants and families:
1. Understand What’s Available
We explain what “Improved Relationships” funding can cover, how to request it, and what evidence is needed to support your application or review.
2. Connect With Qualified Practitioners
Not all providers offer behaviour support—and quality matters. We link you with trusted professionals who are registered with the NDIS Commission and experienced in your needs.
3. Coordinate With Your Support Team
Behaviour support works best when everyone is on the same page. We help bring together therapists, schools, support workers, and family members so strategies are consistent across settings.
4. Support With Implementation
Plans need to be practical and used every day—not just words on paper. We assist with training, follow-up, and problem-solving when things change or challenges arise.
5. Prepare for Plan Reviews
Progress matters. We help track outcomes and gather documentation so your plan continues to reflect your current support needs.
Setting Goals for Behaviour Support in Your Plan
NDIS goals should reflect what you or your loved one want to achieve—not just reduce behaviours. Example goals might include:
- “I want to feel safe and calm when I go to school or community activities.”
- “I want to build positive relationships with my family and support workers.”
- “I want to learn strategies to manage frustration and communicate my needs.”
Clear goals help justify behaviour support funding and guide the development of a tailored support plan.
How APTOS Makes Behaviour Support More Effective
We understand that behaviour support is not just a service—it’s a partnership. Our approach includes:
- Compassionate support for families and participants
- Experienced coordination with a strong understanding of behavioural needs
- Respectful and non-judgmental planning
- Practical help to make strategies work at home, school, and in the community
Final Thoughts
Everyone communicates in their own way—and behaviour is part of that communication. With the right support, challenging behaviours can be understood, managed, and reduced over time. NDIS behaviour support—combined with skilled coordination—gives participants the tools and confidence to move forward.
Need help accessing behaviour support through the NDIS? APTOS is here to guide you with clarity and care. Contact us today to learn how support coordination can help you build safer, more supportive routines for your family.
