Which NDIS budget does Behaviour Support come from (Capacity Building, Improved Relationships, etc.)?
If you are looking for NDIS Positive Behaviour Support in Adelaide, you will likely hear the phrase "Improved Relationships". Many people are unsure if that is a budget, a goal, or a type of service.
Let's break it down simply so you can check your plan and know what to ask for.
The three main NDIS budgets in plain English
The NDIA explains that NDIS plans can include three types of budgets: Core, Capacity Building, and Capital.
Core is for everyday supports and can be flexible within Core categories.
Capacity Building is for building skills and capacity over time, and it is usually more category specific.
Capital is for bigger items like equipment and home modifications.
The NDIA also notes that Core funding is flexible within Core types, but it cannot usually be moved into other budget types like Capacity Building.
Where Behaviour Support usually sits: Capacity Building (Improved Relationships)
In many NDIS plans, Positive Behaviour Support is funded under Capacity Building, in a category commonly called Improved Relationships. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission also references Improved Relationships as the funding area for behaviour support in their participant information.
You might see it written in your plan as:
Capacity Building: Improved Relationships
Specialist Behaviour Support
Positive Behaviour Support or NDIS behaviour support line items
If you cannot find it, your Plan Manager, Support Coordinator, or provider can help you identify it.
What Improved Relationships funding is meant to cover
Improved Relationships funding is commonly used for specialist behaviour support work such as assessment, plan development, and coaching the support team to implement strategies safely.
This usually includes proactive strategies that reduce risk and improve quality of life, not "quick fixes".
How this works under the NDIS
The NDIA's behaviour support guideline explains that behaviour support can only be included if it meets NDIS funding criteria and aligns with Commission requirements for Positive Behaviour Support.
That means the service should be evidence informed, person centred support, and focused on improving quality of life.
Mini FAQ
Can Behaviour Support ever be funded through Core?
Usually, behaviour support is not a Core funded item. Core is flexible within Core categories, but it generally cannot be used for Capacity Building supports like behaviour support.
What if I do not have Improved Relationships in my plan?
You can request it at a plan review, supported by evidence and clear goals linked to safety, participation, and daily routines.
If I am self managed, does the budget category still matter?
Yes. Self management changes how you pay providers, but you still need to spend in line with your plan and budgets.
Does a behaviour support plan always include restrictive practices?
No. Many plans focus on proactive strategies and skill building. Restrictive practices are only relevant in specific situations and must be handled under strict rules.
How 2b Inclusive supports Adelaide participants
2b Inclusive provides NDIS Positive Behaviour Support across Greater Adelaide, using a neurodiversity affirming approach. We also offer Early Intervention for children 0 to 6 and Social Work support to help families connect with the right services and community supports.
Call to action
If you are in Adelaide and want help understanding your plan budget or using your Improved Relationships funding for Positive Behaviour Support, contact 2b Inclusive to talk through your next steps.
This is general information and not personal advice.
