How do I get PBS funded in my NDIS plan, and what do I ask for at planning or review?
When people look for NDIS Positive Behaviour Support in Adelaide, the biggest hurdle is often not finding a practitioner. It is getting the right funding included in the plan.
Positive Behaviour Support funding decisions work best when your request is clear, connected to disability related needs, and linked to goals that matter in everyday life.
Step 1: Describe the impact in daily life, not just the behaviour
Instead of only naming the behaviour, describe what it affects. For example:
A child who bolts may not be safe in the community.
An adult who becomes overwhelmed in noise may avoid appointments or community access.
A person who struggles with change may need structured routines to participate at school or work.
This helps show why NDIS behaviour support is relevant and why proactive strategies are needed.
Step 2: Ask for "Positive Behaviour Support" and a Behaviour Support Plan
At planning or review, be direct. You can ask for:
NDIS Positive Behaviour Support delivered by a behaviour support practitioner
Funding for assessment and a behaviour support plan
Training and coaching for parents, carers, or support workers to implement the plan
The NDIA's behaviour support guideline explains that behaviour support can be funded when it meets NDIS funding criteria and aligns with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission requirements for positive behaviour support.
Step 3: Link the request to your NDIS goals
Goals are the bridge between your needs and your funding. Examples of goals that can relate to Positive Behaviour Support include:
Building safe participation at home and in the community
Improving communication and emotional regulation
Increasing independence with daily routines
Supporting safe participation at school, work, or supported living
A person centred support approach keeps the focus on quality of life, not "fixing" someone.
Step 4: Bring evidence that supports the need
Evidence can include (choose what fits):
Reports from allied health or medical professionals
School or provider notes (patterns, triggers, risks)
Incident summaries (what happens, how often, what supports were tried)
Any history of restrictive practices or high risk situations, if relevant
If restrictive practices are part of the picture, behaviour support planning becomes even more important and must follow strict rules. The Commission sets expectations for behaviour support and reducing restrictive practices over time.
How this works under the NDIS
NDIS plans include budgets like Core, Capacity Building, and Capital, and each has different rules.
Behaviour support is typically funded under Capacity Building in a category often referred to as Improved Relationships in many plans.
Mini FAQ
What exact words should I use at my planning meeting?
You can say: "I am requesting NDIS Positive Behaviour Support, including assessment and a behaviour support plan, plus coaching for my support team to implement strategies."
Do I need a diagnosis to get PBS funded?
Funding is based on disability related needs and evidence of impact. A diagnosis can help, but the key is showing functional impact and support needs.
Can my Support Coordinator help with this request?
Yes. A Support Coordinator can help gather evidence, prepare goals, and coordinate providers so the request is clear.
Can I use plan managed or self managed for PBS?
Often yes, depending on your plan. The NDIA outlines what self management means and the responsibilities involved.
How 2b Inclusive can support you in Adelaide
At 2b Inclusive, we can help you prepare for planning by clarifying goals, explaining what Positive Behaviour Support usually includes, and supporting your team to understand proactive strategies. We also provide Early Intervention for children aged 0 to 6 and Social Work support to connect you with the right community and mainstream resources.
If you are in Adelaide and want help requesting or using NDIS Positive Behaviour Support, contact 2b Inclusive. We support families and participants across Greater Adelaide with a neurodiversity affirming, respectful approach.
This is general information and not personal advice.
