School refusal — when a child consistently avoids attending school due to emotional distress — is one of the most stressful situations a family can face. Behaviour support may be an important part of the solution.

School Refusal Is Not Truancy

A child who refuses school is typically experiencing significant anxiety or distress — not choosing to skip. It often appears as morning meltdowns, physical symptoms (stomach aches, headaches), or intense emotional outbursts before school. School refusal is more common in children with autism, ADHD, or anxiety — all conditions supported under the NDIS.

How Behaviour Support Can Help

• A Functional Behaviour Assessment to understand what is driving the refusal — sensory overwhelm, social anxiety, academic difficulties, or transitions
• A graded exposure plan developed with parents, teachers and the school
• Coaching for parents on responding during high-distress moments without reinforcing avoidance
• Liaison with the school to create sensory adjustments or modified timetables
• Coordination with psychologists, paediatricians, and occupational therapists

NDIS Funding for School Refusal

Where school refusal is linked to a participant's disability, NDIS funding under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living can cover behaviour support. No GP referral is required.

Serving Melbourne Families

Brave Mental Health provides behaviour support for school refusal across Melbourne, with telehealth also available. Contact Himani Arora for a free initial consultation.