How NDIS Funding Can Support Improved Relationships for Children with Autism and ADHD

Raising a child with autism, ADHD, or learning difficulties can bring unique joys — and challenges. One of the most common concerns we hear from parents is about their child’s ability to build and maintain healthy relationships.

At Freedom Therapy Services, we understand the importance of connection — and how hard it can be when social or behavioural differences get in the way. Thankfully, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding to help your child and family thrive in this area.

In this post, we explain how NDIS funding can be used to support improved relationships, reduce stress at home, and provide long-term benefits through targeted therapeutic supports.

 

Understanding NDIS Funding and Eligibility

The NDIS is a government initiative that provides funding for people with a permanent and significant disability. This includes many children diagnosed with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, and related behavioural or learning difficulties.

To access NDIS funding, your child must:

• Have a diagnosed condition that significantly impacts daily functioning
• Be under the age of 65
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category visa

Learn more about NDIS eligibility on the NDIS website.

 

What Is “Improved Relationships” Funding?

One of the NDIS support categories is Improved Relationships, which falls under the Capacity Building Supports budget. This funding is designed to help participants:

• Develop positive behaviours
• Strengthen interpersonal and family relationships
• Improve emotional regulation
• Reduce challenging behaviours that impact daily life

Supports You Can Access

If your child receives “Improved Relationships” funding, it may be used for:

• Behaviour therapy to reduce meltdowns or aggression
• Psychology sessions to build emotional regulation skills
• Parent coaching to improve communication and consistency at home

At Freedom Therapy Services, we offer all of these supports under one roof. Learn more about our behaviour therapy services.

 

How Behaviour Therapy Supports Relationship Growth

Behaviour therapy is a proven method for helping children with autism and ADHD learn more adaptive ways to communicate, express emotions, and interact with others. These therapies are highly individualised and often involve parents or carers directly.

Key goals include:

• Teaching emotional regulation strategies
• Increasing positive interactions with peers and family members
• Replacing harmful behaviours with safe, socially appropriate alternatives

Over time, this helps reduce stress and conflict — and improves family dynamics significantly.

 

Making the Most of Your NDIS Plan

Using NDIS Funding for Autism and ADHD

If your child has a diagnosis of autism, you may be eligible for a comprehensive NDIS plan that includes:

• Core supports for daily living assistance
• Capacity building supports like psychology or behavioural therapy
• Improved relationships funding for specific relationship-building goals

Children with ADHD may also qualify for similar supports, especially when behaviours significantly impact social or family life.

We recommend requesting a functional behaviour assessment and goal-based intervention plan — which we offer at Freedom Therapy Services — to support your application or plan review.

 

How We Help at Freedom Therapy Services

At Freedom Therapy Services, we specialise in:

• Behaviour therapy
• Psychology
• Parent coaching

We work with children, teens, and families across Australia. Our warm, experienced team creates personalised therapy programs that align with NDIS goals — especially those around improved relationships.

Learn more about our psychology services and parent coaching.

Whether your child is working on making friends, managing frustration, or improving sibling dynamics, we’re here to help every step of the way.

 

External Support and Resources

Here are some helpful Australian resources on NDIS and relationship support:

• NDIS Official Website – For access, eligibility, and planning information
• Autism Awareness Australia – Support, education, and advocacy for families

These sites offer valuable tools and information as you navigate your child’s journey.

 

FAQ 

Q: Can NDIS funding cover therapy to improve my child’s behaviour at home?

A: Yes. The “Improved Relationships” category of NDIS funding can support behaviour therapy that reduces family conflict and builds healthy routines.

Q: Is my child with ADHD eligible for NDIS funding?

A: Possibly. If their ADHD significantly impacts daily functioning, they may be eligible for NDIS supports, including behavioural or emotional regulation therapy.

Q: What kind of therapy helps with relationships?

A: Behaviour therapy, psychology, and parent coaching can all help children improve emotional regulation, reduce challenging behaviours, and strengthen relationships.