Skip to content
WHAT IS A SUPPORT COORDINATOR? EVERYTHING NDIS PARTICIPANT NEEDS TO KNOW
If you have an NDIS plan or have read the new news about changes in the NDIS Scheme, you may have heard the term Support Coordinator. But what exactly do they do, and how can they help you?
A Support Coordinator is someone who helps participants and/or representatives understand your NDIS plan and connect with the right services and supports. Their goal is to make your NDIS journey easier and help you get the most out of your funding.
WHAT DOES A SUPPORT COORDINATOR DO?
A support coordinator works alongisde you to help out your NDIS plan into action.
• Understand your NDIS plan and funding
• Find and connect with suitable providers and services
• Organise service agreements and bookings
• Coordinate your supports and services
• Solve issues with your supports and services if something isn’t working well
• Prepare for plan reviews and reassessments
• Build your confidence to manage your supports independently
Think of them as a guide who helps you navigate the NDIS and make informed choices
When Do You Need a Support Coordinator?
Not every NDIS participant needs a Support Coordinator, but many people benefit from having one, especially when find and managing supports feels overwhelming.
You may benefit from a Support Coordinator if:
• You are new to the NDIS and unsure where to start
• You need help understanding your NDIS plan and funding
• You work with multiple providers and service
• Your support needs are complex or changing
• You need help finding the right providers
• You need assistance resolving issues with services or supports
• You need help preparing for plan reviews
A Support Coordinator ensures you are making the most of your NDIS plan
Levels of NDIS Support Coordination
There are three levels of Support Coordination available through the NDIS.
1. Support Connection (Level 1)
This is the most basic level. It helps participants:
• Understand their NDIS plan
• Connect with providers and community services
• Build confidence to manage supports independently over time
It’s generally focused on getting started and learning how to use the plan effectively. (NDIS)
2. Support Coordination (Level 2)
This is the standard and most commonly funded level. It helps participants:
• Implement and coordinate their supports
• Build skills to manage services and relationships
• Increase independence and community participation
• Navigate issues that arise with providers or supports
The goal is to help participants build the capacity to direct their own supports and life choices. (NDIS)
3. Specialist Support Coordination (Level 3)
This is the highest level and is for participants with complex needs or challenging situations. It helps:
• Manage high-risk or crisis situations
• Coordinate multiple service systems
• Address significant barriers to support
• Ensure services remain stable and effective during complex circumstances
Specialist Support Coordinators typically have advanced experience and work with participants whose situations require intensive coordination. (NDIS)
Who Pays for a Support Coordinator?
Support Coordinators are funded through NDIS plan’s under the Capacity Building budget.
This means participants do not pay for Support Coordination out of their own pocket. However, not every NDIS participant has Support Coordination funding. (refer to your plan or call us if you are unsure).
How to Choose the Right Support Coordinator
Choosing the right Support Coordinator can make a big difference in your NDIS journey. A good Support Coordinator should not only understand the NDIS but also take the time to understand you, your goals, needs, and preferences.
When choosing a Support Coordinator, look for someone who:
• Listens to your goals and respects your choices
• Has strong knowledge of the NDIS and available supports
• Communicates clearly and responds promptly
• Has experience working with participants who have similar needs
• Helps you build independence rather than creating dependence
• Is transparent, trustworthy, and easy to work with
Support Coordinator vs Plan Manager: What's the Difference?
Many people confuse Support Coordination with Plan Management, but they have different services.
A Support Coordinator helps you find, organise, and manage your supports and services.
A Plan Manager helps manage the financial side of your NDIS plan, including processing invoices, paying providers, and helping you keep track of your budget.
Both services can work together to make your NDIS experience smoother and less stressful.
Final Thoughts
A Support Coordinator can be a valuable part of your support team. They help you understand your NDIS plan, connect with the right services, to help you work towards your goals with confidence and help you with dealing with NDIS for reviews and meetings.
If your NDIS plan includes Support Coordination funding, it’s important to make the most of this support so you can effectively implement your plan, connect with the right services, and achieve the best possible outcomes.
At My PlanWell, we provide prompt assistance with Plan Management and Support Coordination for your NDIS Plan.
