Behaviour Support in the NDIS
Behaviour support is a regulated area of NDIS service delivery. Providers must understand the requirements around positive behaviour support and restrictive practices.
What is Positive Behaviour Support?
Positive behaviour support (PBS) involves:
- Understanding reasons for behaviour
- Creating strategies to support the person
- Improving quality of life
- Reducing behaviours of concern
- Avoiding restrictive practices where possible
Registration Requirements
Specialist Behaviour Support Providers
To develop behaviour support plans, you must:
- Be registered for specialist behaviour support
- Undergo certification audit
- Meet Supplementary Module requirements
- Employ suitable behaviour support practitioners
Implementing Behaviour Support Plans
To implement (but not develop) plans, you must:
- Be registered for implementing BSPs
- Meet relevant Practice Standards
- Ensure staff are trained in the specific plan
Understanding Restrictive Practices
The NDIS Commission regulates five types of restrictive practices:
1. Seclusion
Confining a person alone in a room they cannot leave.
2. Chemical Restraint
Using medication to control behaviour.
3. Mechanical Restraint
Using devices or equipment to restrict movement.
4. Physical Restraint
Physical holding or contact that restricts movement.
5. Environmental Restraint
Restricting access to activities, items, or areas.
Using Restrictive Practices
Restrictive practices should only be used:
- As a last resort
- When necessary to prevent harm
- In the least restrictive way
- For the shortest time possible
- With appropriate authorisation
Monthly Reporting
Providers using restrictive practices must submit monthly reports including:
- Instances of use
- Duration of use
- Reason for use
- Who was involved
- Follow-up actions
Getting It Right
Behaviour support requires specialist knowledge and careful compliance.
