Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) & Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) in Melbourne

At Back on Track Psychology, we specialise in Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) services across Melbourne and surrounding areas. These services are particularly helpful for individuals with autism, intellectual disability, or other neurodevelopmental conditions, and are often a critical step in gaining access to NDIS-funded behaviour support.

Our approach is guided by the belief that behaviour is meaningful and that everyone deserves to be understood, respected, and supported to thrive.

What Is a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)?

A Functional Behaviour Assessment is a structured process used to understand the purpose behind behaviours of concern. Rather than simply trying to eliminate a behaviour, we seek to understand why it is occurring—so we can replace it with positive, functionally equivalent behaviours that improve the person’s quality of life.

Common Behaviour Functions Identified in FBA:

• Escape/Avoidance: Trying to get out of unwanted tasks or situations (e.g. resisting toileting).
• Access to Tangibles: Seeking access to preferred items or activities (e.g. demanding snacks or iPads).
• Attention Seeking: Wanting connection or interaction (e.g. yelling to get noticed).
• Automatic/Sensory: Behaviour that is internally reinforcing (e.g. rocking or humming).

The FBA Process at Back on Track Psychology:

1. Indirect Assessment: Interviews with carers, educators, and other key supports.
2. Direct Observation: In-home, school, or community-based observation of the behaviours in context.
3. (Optional) Functional Analysis: A more structured experimental approach used in complex cases.

Every FBA leads to the development of a Behaviour Support Plan based on the specific function of the behaviour.

What Is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred and evidence-based approach designed to reduce behaviours of concern and promote meaningful, long-term improvements in quality of life. It is the gold-standard model of behaviour support under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and is a central part of our practice at Back on Track Psychology.

Core Principles of PBS:

• Person-Centred: Focused on the individual’s values, culture, and goals.
• Improves Quality of Life: Enhances participation, autonomy, and relationships.
• Rooted in Functional Behaviour Assessment: Addresses why behaviours occur.
• Individualised Support Plans: Tailored strategies that teach new skills and prevent behaviours of concern.
• Reduces Restrictive Practices: Focuses on proactive strategies and only uses restrictions as a last resort.
• Evidence-Based: Draws from the latest research in behavioural psychology.
• Collaborative: Involves families, educators, and allied health teams in consistent support planning.

What Are Behaviours of Concern?

Behaviours of concern are actions that pose a risk to the safety or wellbeing of the person or others around them. These behaviours can significantly impact school, home, and community participation—and may signal unmet needs or distress.

Examples of behaviours of concern include:

• Physical aggression (e.g. hitting, biting)
• Verbal aggression (e.g. yelling, threats)
• Self-injury (e.g. head-banging, skin-picking)
• Withdrawal and social isolation
• Property damage
• Illegal or risky behaviours

Understanding the function of these behaviours is the first step toward meaningful and compassionate support.