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Behaviour Support Plans

Practical strategies to Improve Quality of Life

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What is a Positive Behaviour Support Plan?

A Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plan (PBSP) is a person-centred approach designed to understand and respond to behaviours of concern in a meaningful way. The goal? Better quality of life through proactive, evidence-based support.

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Who Might Need a Positive Behaviour Support Plan?

A PBSP can help when someone is:

  • Hurting themselves (e.g., hitting, scratching, pulling hair)
  • Aggressive towards others (e.g., biting, kicking, spitting)
  • Struggling with social interactions (e.g., inappropriate behaviours in public)
  • Running away (absconding)
  • Damaging property

Instead of just managing behaviours, a PBSP identifies the underlying reasons and provides strategies that meet the person’s needs in more positive ways.

What’s Included in a PBSP?

A PBSP is never one-size-fits-all. Each plan is tailored to the individual and includes:

  • Background Information – Interests, environment, and what matters to the person
  • Behaviours of Concern – What they look like, when they happen, and possible reasons why
  • Triggers and Patterns – What makes behaviours more or less likely
  • Alternative Strategies – Ways to meet needs without behaviours of concern
  • Support Strategies – Practical ways to help at home, school, or in the community
  • Skill-Building – Emotional regulation, communication, and independence skills
  • A Fade-Out Plan – If restrictive practices are in place, the plan covers how to reduce them over time

How is the Plan Developed?

Step 1 - Behaviour Support Assessment
Initial stage
We start by getting to know the person – speaking with them, their family, and their support team to understand their needs, strengths, and challenges.
Step 1 - Behaviour Support Assessment
Step 2 - Early Assessment
Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)
An FBA identifies patterns, triggers, and unmet needs behind behaviours, ensuring strategies are tailored and effective.
Step 2 - Early Assessment
Step 3 - Interim PBSP (if needed)
Within 30 days
If restrictive practices (e.g., locked doors or restraints) are in place, an Interim PBSP is written to ensure support is ethical and safe.
Step 3 - Interim PBSP (if needed)
Step 4 - Comprehensive PBSP
Within 6 months
Over six months, a full PBSP is developed with long-term strategies focusing on growth, independence, and reducing restrictive practices.
Step 4 - Comprehensive PBSP
Step 5 - Implementation & Ongoing Support
Ongoing
A PBSP isn’t just a report – it’s a practical tool. We support families and teams to put it into action and adjust as needed.
Step 5 - Implementation & Ongoing Support

How Does a Positive Behaviour Support Plan Improve Quality of Life?

A well-designed PBSP can:

  • Reduce stress and frustration for the person and their support network
  • Improve communication skills so needs are expressed more easily
  • Increase independence by building skills for everyday life
  • Create safer, more positive interactions at home, school, or work
  • Support families and carers with clear, practical strategies

All PBSPs developed at Ignite are peer-reviewed to ensure quality, consistency, and evidence-based best practices, providing the highest level of assurance for individuals and their support networks.

It’s about helping people feel understood and supported, not just managing behaviours.

What About Restrictive Practices?

Restrictive practices should only be used when absolutely necessary and must be regularly reviewed to ensure safety, dignity, and independence.

Environmental – Restricting access to spaces or objects (e.g., locking cupboards)
Mechanical – Using devices to limit movement (e.g., gloves to prevent self-injury)
Physical – Holding or guiding someone against their will to prevent harm
Chemical – Using medication for behaviour management rather than medical needs
Seclusion – Isolating someone to prevent harm

What Happens After the Plan is Developed?

Once your PBSP is completed, your Behaviour Support Practitioner will:
  • Train families and support staff – Teaching and demonstrating strategies
  • Provide hands-on support – Visiting home, school, or work to model techniques
  • Monitor progress – Adjusting strategies as needs change
  • Check in regularly – Ensuring the plan remains effective
When the right strategies are in place, quality of life improves for everyone.

How Can I Get a Positive Behaviour Support Plan?

If you’re not sure where to start, here’s what to do next:
  • New to the NDIS? We’ll guide you through funding, what’s covered, and how to start.
  • Already have a PBSP? If it’s outdated or not working, we can review and update it.
  • Not sure if you need one? Let’s chat – we’ll help you figure out the best approach.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Interim PBSP – A short-term plan developed within 30 days, often when restrictive practices are in place, ensuring immediate, ethical support.
Comprehensive PBSP – A full plan developed over six months, packed with tailored strategies focused on long-term growth, independence, and reducing restrictive practices.

Life changes, and so should your PBSP. Reviews happen at least every 12 months, but you might need one sooner if:

  • There’s a big shift in behaviours
  • The person’s environment, routine, or support needs change
  • Existing strategies aren’t working anymore

Funding shouldn’t be a barrier to support. If NDIS funding isn’t in place, we can help explore options, including an Access Report to advocate for PBS funding. Reach out and we can figure out the next steps together.

A PBSP must be developed by an NDIS-registered Behaviour Support Practitioner. These practitioners have the training and experience to assess behaviours of concern, create personalised strategies, and ensure ethical, evidence-based approaches.

At Ignite, we ensure every PBSP meets the highest standards of quality, consistency, and ethical practice through:

  • Comprehensive Review & Supervision – Every PBSP is peer-reviewed by experienced practitioners and supported by regular supervision to ensure best-practice strategies.
  • Ongoing Professional Development – Our team continuously builds expertise through training, PD opportunities, and collaboration.
  • Clinical Excellence Lead Oversight – Our Clinical Excellence Lead ensures all PBSPs align with best practices and uphold the highest level of quality and assurance.
  • Person-Centred Approach – The individual is always at the centre of decision-making, ensuring real-life impact beyond compliance.
  • Collaborative Support – We work alongside families and support teams to create plans that make a meaningful difference.

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