What Is Support Coordination and How Does It Help with Your NDIS Plan?

Navigating the NDIS can be confusing, especially when you’re new to the system or trying to manage multiple services. That’s where Support Coordination comes in.

Support Coordination is a funded service under the NDIS that helps participants make the most of their plan. It connects them with the right people, providers, and tools to help them work towards their goals with more confidence and less stress.

Let’s break down what it is, who it’s for, and how it can help.

What is Support Coordination?

Support Coordination is a capacity-building support that helps you understand and implement your NDIS plan. Rather than providing hands-on care, a Support Coordinator works alongside you to:

• Understand how your funding works
• Connect you with service providers
• Coordinate different supports (including informal and mainstream supports)
• Troubleshoot issues if they arise
• Prepare for plan reviews

Think of them as guides who help you take control of your NDIS journey rather than leaving you to figure it out alone.

What does a Support Coordinator actually do?

Here are some of the things your Support Coordinator might help with:

1. Explaining your plan

They’ll help you understand the different parts of your NDIS plan, what each budget can be used for, and how to use your funding effectively.

2. Finding providers

Based on your goals and preferences, they can help you research and connect with therapists, support workers, housing providers, community programs, and more.

3. Making service agreements

Support Coordinators assist with organising and understanding service agreements, ensuring your rights and needs are respected.

4. Building your confidence

They help you develop the skills to make choices and manage your support independently.

5. Advocating for your needs

If issues arise, such as service gaps or funding concerns, your Support Coordinator can help you address them and communicate with the NDIA.

6. Getting ready for plan reviews

When your plan is due for reassessment, they can help gather reports, review outcomes, and ensure you’re prepared.

What types of Support Coordination exist?

There are three levels of Support Coordination available under the NDIS:

1. Support Connection
   Helps you build the ability to connect with informal, community, and funded supports. Often short-term and less involved.
2. Support Coordination
   The most common level. Provides ongoing support to implement your plan, build capacity, and coordinate providers.
3. Specialist Support Coordination
   For people with more complex needs or significant barriers, this approach involves a higher level of coordination and collaboration across services.

Not every participant receives Support Coordination. It depends on your situation, goals, and whether you’ll likely benefit from this type of support.

How do I get Support Coordination in my plan?

You can request Support Coordination during your planning meeting or plan reassessment. It’s helpful to:

• Explain your circumstances and why coordination would benefit you
• Talk about any challenges with navigating services or building capacity
• Ask your existing providers for supporting documentation if needed

If you already have Support Coordination, you can also choose your provider. It is important to work with someone who listens to you, respects your goals, and keeps you at the centre of your plan.

Support Coordination is not about taking over, it’s about walking alongside you and helping you build the skills and knowledge to live on your terms.

At Newcastle Social Workers, we provide experienced, person-centred Support Coordination for NDIS participants of all backgrounds and abilities. Whether you need short-term guidance or ongoing support, we’ll help you navigate the NDIS clearly and confidently.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your goals.