What is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred, evidence-based framework designed to understand why behaviours of concern occur and to develop practical strategies that improve quality of life — for the participant and those around them.
PBS is not about punishment or control. It is about understanding that behaviours are often a form of communication — a signal that something in a person's environment, routine, or relationships needs to change. PBS works to address those underlying causes, build new skills, and create conditions where the person can thrive.
Under the NDIS, only practitioners assessed as suitable by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission can deliver PBS services.
Who might benefit from PBS?
PBS may be a good fit when everyday life has become harder than it needs to be — when a person is struggling, and the people around them are too. Some signs that PBS could help include:
- Behaviours that are causing distress or risk of harm to the person or others (such as hitting, self-injury, or property destruction)
- Difficulty participating in everyday activities at home, school, or in the community
- Behaviours that are limiting independence, relationships, or inclusion
- Use of restrictive practices that need to be reduced or eliminated
- Situations where carers or support workers are struggling to respond consistently and safely
PBS supports people of all ages and all disability types — including autism, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, psychosocial disability, and complex mental health needs.
How does PBS work?
PBS is an ongoing process, not a one-time assessment. Here is what to expect when you work with Allied Progress:
Initial Meeting
We meet with the participant and their support network to understand their goals, needs, and current circumstances. This is a conversation — not an assessment. We want to understand the whole person.
Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
Our practitioners gather information through observation, interviews, and data review to understand the function and context of behaviours of concern. We look at the environment, triggers, communication, and support systems around the person.
Behaviour Support Plan (BSP)
Based on the assessment, we develop a tailored Behaviour Support Plan. This document outlines proactive strategies, skill-building goals, and — where applicable — a clear plan to reduce or eliminate any restrictive practices. The BSP is written in plain language and co-designed with the participant and their support network.
Training and Implementation Support
We work with families, carers, support workers, and educators to make sure everyone understands the strategies and feels confident implementing them. Training can happen in the home, school, community, or online.
Ongoing Monitoring and Review
PBS is not a set-and-forget plan. We regularly review outcomes, collect data, and adapt strategies as the participant's needs and circumstances evolve. We also submit required reports to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission where restrictive practices are involved.