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Understanding Positive Behaviour Support for People with Autism
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an evidence-based approach that helps people with autism reduce behaviours of concern while improving quality of life, independence, and wellbeing.
Rather than focusing on punishment or control, PBS looks at why behaviours occur and how the right supports, environments, and skills can help people feel safer, calmer, and more understood.
This guide explains what Positive Behaviour Support is, how it works, and how it supports people with autism through the NDIS.
What Is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive Behaviour Support is a person-centred approach that aims to understand the reasons behind behaviours of concern and respond in ways that support long-term wellbeing.
PBS focuses on:
- understanding triggers and unmet needs
- teaching new skills and coping strategies
- improving environments and routines
- reducing the need for restrictive practices
For people with autism, PBS recognises that behaviour is often a form of communication, especially when verbal communication is difficult.
How Positive Behaviour Support Helps People with Autism
People with autism may experience sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, or difficulty with change and transitions. These factors can lead to behaviours that signal distress or unmet needs.
Positive Behaviour Support helps by:
- identifying what a behaviour is communicating
- reducing stressors in daily environments
- building skills that support regulation and choice
- creating predictable routines and supports
The goal is not to change who someone is, but to support them to feel safe, understood, and confident in their daily life.
What Is a Behaviour Support Plan?
A Behaviour Support Plan is a practical document developed by a qualified behaviour support practitioner.
It outlines:
- the purpose of behaviours of concern
- proactive strategies to reduce distress
- skill-building supports
- clear guidance for carers and support workers
- strategies to minimise or eliminate restrictive practices
For people with autism, a well-designed Behaviour Support Plan supports consistency across home, community, and support settings.
Positive Behaviour Support and Quality of Life
One of the core outcomes of PBS is improved quality of life.
When behaviour support is working well, people often experience:
- reduced anxiety and distress
- stronger relationships
- greater independence
- increased participation in community and daily activities
For families and carers, PBS can also reduce stress and provide clearer guidance on how best to support their loved one.
How Positive Behaviour Support Fits Within the NDIS
The NDIS can fund Positive Behaviour Support when it is considered reasonable and necessary and aligned with a participant’s goals.
PBS is often funded under:
- Improved Relationships
- Capacity Building supports
Funding may include:
- assessment by a behaviour support practitioner
- development and review of a Behaviour Support Plan
- training and guidance for support workers and carers
PBS works best when it is part of a broader support network, including in-home care, Supported Independent Living, and community participation.
How United for Care Supports Positive Behaviour Support
At United for Care, we work alongside participants, families, carers, and allied health professionals to ensure behaviour support is practical, respectful, and consistent.
Our approach focuses on:
- understanding the whole person, not just behaviours
- supporting carers and support teams with clear guidance
- embedding behaviour support into daily routines
- prioritising dignity, safety, and choice
We believe behaviour support should make life easier, not more complicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Positive Behaviour Support only for people with severe behaviours?
No. PBS can support a wide range of needs, from reducing anxiety and stress to supporting emotional regulation and daily routines.
Does PBS try to stop behaviours?
PBS focuses on understanding and supporting behaviour, not suppressing it. The aim is to reduce distress and improve quality of life.
Can PBS support families and carers?
Yes. Behaviour Support Plans provide practical strategies and guidance that support carers and reduce uncertainty.
Learn More About Behaviour Support
If you’d like to learn more about Positive Behaviour Support for people with autism or how it fits within NDIS supports, our team can help explain options and next steps.
Get in touch with United for Care to learn more about behaviour support that’s practical, respectful, and built around real life.
👉 Learn what what’s changing in 2026 and why it matters: Read more here.
📞 1300 407 700
📧 info@unitedforcare.com.au
🌐 unitedforcare.com.au
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