Support Coordination: What It Is & Who Needs It
Understanding how to navigate the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be challenging. This is where support coordination comes in support coordination is a service designed to help NDIS participants use their plans effectively, connecting them with the right providers, services, and community resources to achieve their goals. It is not about delivering the support directly, but about ensuring participants get the most from their NDIS plan.
What Support Coordination Involves
Support coordination involves several key functions that help participants manage their NDIS plans. These include:
Understanding your plan: Support coordinators help participants interpret their NDIS plan, ensuring they understand the funding, services, and goals outlined.

Connecting with providers: Coordinators link participants to suitable service providers, community organisations, and local supports.

Building skills and independence: By guiding participants, coordinators help them develop the confidence and knowledge to manage their supports independently.

Problem-solving and crisis management: Support coordination can assist when challenges arise, including changes in services or unexpected difficulties.

This structured approach helps participants gain clarity and make informed decisions about their supports.
Who Needs Support Coordination
Support coordination is especially beneficial for participants who face challenges in managing their NDIS plans. Common scenarios include:
New participants: People who are new to the NDIS often need guidance to understand their plan and how to access services effectively.

Participants with complex needs: Those with multiple supports or high support requirements may benefit from a coordinator to navigate the various services.

Participants seeking greater independence: Individuals who want to develop skills to manage their supports with less ongoing assistance.

Participants experiencing changes: If a participant’s circumstances change, a coordinator can help adjust services to meet evolving needs.

Ultimately, support coordination helps participants achieve their goals more efficiently by providing practical guidance and ongoing assistance.
How Support Coordination Helps Achieve Goals
A key aspect of support coordination is goal-oriented planning. Coordinators focus on connecting participants with services that align with their personal goals, whether they are related to employment, education, social participation, or daily living. This ensures that NDIS funding is used effectively and maximises the participant’s independence and quality of life.
Support coordinators also assist with:
Monitoring progress: Regular check-ins help participants stay on track with their goals and adapt supports as needed.

Enhancing decision-making: Coordinators provide information and options, empowering participants to make informed choices.

Reducing stress: Managing an NDIS plan can be complex. Coordinators simplify the process, reducing confusion and administrative burden.

Differences Between Levels of Support Coordination
Support coordination can be provided at different levels depending on the participant’s needs:
Standard support coordination: Helps participants implement their plan and connect with providers.

Specialist support coordination: Focuses on participants with more complex needs, such as high-risk situations, intricate service arrangements, or challenging circumstances requiring additional guidance.

Both levels aim to maximise the participant’s capacity to use their NDIS plan effectively, but specialist support coordination is tailored for more complex cases requiring detailed planning and monitoring.
Choosing the Right Support Coordination
When selecting a support coordinator, participants should consider:
Experience and knowledge: Ensure the coordinator understands the NDIS and has experience in navigating complex plans.

Communication style: A good coordinator listens to the participant and communicates clearly about options and decisions.

Local connections: Coordinators with local knowledge can link participants to community services and relevant providers.

Flexibility and responsiveness: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and respond quickly to participant needs is crucial.

Engaging the right support coordination service can make a significant difference in how effectively an NDIS plan is used.
Benefits of Support Coordination
Support coordination offers numerous advantages for participants:
Clarity and confidence: Participants gain a clearer understanding of their plan and how to use it.

Efficient use of funding: Coordinators help participants avoid unnecessary services and maximise their plan.

Access to networks: Participants are connected to suitable providers and community resources.

Reduced stress: Managing multiple supports can be overwhelming; coordinators streamline the process.

Personalised guidance: Support coordination is tailored to individual needs, goals, and circumstances.

FAQs About Support Coordination
Is support coordination included in every NDIS plan?
Not all NDIS plans include support coordination. It is typically included for participants who would benefit from guidance in using their plan effectively.
How long does support coordination last?
The duration depends on the participant’s needs and plan. Some may require ongoing support, while others may only need temporary guidance.
Can I change my support coordinator?
Yes, participants can change their support coordinator if the current arrangement is not meeting their needs.
Does support coordination provide the actual support services?
No, support coordination does not deliver services directly. It focuses on connecting participants to the right providers and managing their plan.
Who can provide support coordination?
Support coordination is delivered by NDIS-registered providers with experience in navigating NDIS plans. Specialist support coordination is recommended for complex needs.