Microboards & Circles of Support. Your life, your decisions.
Supported decision-making upholds a person's right to make their own decisions — with support where needed to understand information, explore options, and communicate their will and preferences. A microboard is one of the most powerful ways to formalise that support.
Two models of support
Circle of Support vs. Microboard
Both are positive models — one is not better than the other. Microboards will suit some people's needs, and Circles of Support will be the best fit for others.
Circle of Support
Microboard
What is a Microboard?
A small incorporated group — for you, chosen by you.
A microboard is a small, incorporated group of people you choose — usually family, friends, and trusted allies — who come together for the sole purpose of supporting you to live a good life on your terms. Yellowbird Enterprises can assist you to set up your own microboard.
At least five members
Your microboard must comprise at least five (5) adults of your own choosing — people you trust and who are committed to supporting your goals.
A legal entity
Your microboard must be incorporated as a legal entity in its own right, giving it the authority to employ staff, hold funds, and act on your behalf.
Governance obligations
The board must meet governance and reporting obligations under the relevant Incorporation Act — including annual general meetings and financial accountability.
Yellowbird's optional involvement
You may choose to include a representative of Yellowbird Enterprises on your microboard. This involvement is optional and always guided by supported decision-making principles.
Step by step
How a Microboard comes together.
Start with a Circle of Support
Many Microboards begin by forming a Circle of Support first — an informal network of people who care about the person and meet regularly to support their wellbeing and planning.
Identify your members
Choose at least five people you trust — family, friends, community allies — who share your values and genuinely care about your life. All members must be adults (18+).
Incorporate as a not-for-profit
The group incorporates under the relevant Incorporation Act to become a legal entity. Yellowbird can assist you through this process, including developing your constitution and governance framework.
Hold regular meetings & plan
The Microboard meets regularly to support person-centred planning. All decisions respect the participant's capacity for self-determination — their needs, wishes, and strengths always come first.
Manage supports & funding
As an incorporated association, the Microboard can employ support workers and manage NDIS funds as a self-manager — reducing overhead costs while maintaining full accountability.
NDIS funding can be used to develop a Microboard where it meets the reasonable and necessary criteria. Self-managed and plan-managed participants can access Microboard development programs. Speak with your Support Coordinator or planner.
Why it matters
The benefits of a Microboard.
Lasting relationships
A legally committed network that persists over decades — not just while funding or circumstances allow.
Person-centred control
The participant shapes their own support team and decisions. All planning reflects their will, preferences, and strengths.
Future-proofing
Microboards provide continuity of care and advocacy when parents or key caregivers are no longer able to help.
Community inclusion
Members act as community champions. The community learns to be more inclusive as Microboard members advocate for the person.
Accountability
Legal reporting requirements protect the participant and ensure funding is spent appropriately and transparently.
NDIS efficiency
Self-managing Microboards avoid agency overheads — funds go further, workers can be paid well, and costs stay transparent.
Transparency & safeguards
Conflicts of Interest & Nominees.
Conflicts of Interest
Where Yellowbird is involved in a microboard and also delivers NDIS-funded supports, any actual or potential conflicts of interest will be clearly identified, documented, and actively managed. Mitigation strategies will be transparent and shared with the NDIS / NDIA as required.
As an NDIS nominee, you must tell the NDIS about any conflict of interest you have in relation to the participant — for example, where you are also paid to deliver supports — and explain how that conflict will be managed.
Body Corporate Nominees
Where a body corporate nominee is appointed, specific obligations apply to protect the participant's rights and ensure accountability.
These safeguards support accountability, transparency, and the ongoing protection of the participant's rights.
Further reading
Microboards Australia is the peak body for microboard development in Australia, operating since 2008.
Interested in setting up a microboard?
We can help you get started.
Yellowbird Enterprises can assist you through the process of establishing a microboard — from identifying members and understanding governance requirements to navigating your NDIS plan. Get in touch to talk through your situation.