If you’ve ever looked at your NDIS plan and thought, “I could really use someone to help me navigate all of this…” you’re not alone. That’s exactly why Support Coordination exists.
Support Coordination is one of the most valuable services available under the NDIS. But here’s the thing: it’s not automatically included in every plan. So how do you know if you’re eligible? What’s the process for getting it funded? And how can you make a strong case for it at your next NDIS plan review? Let’s dive in!
What is NDIS Support Coordination?
Support Coordination is funded under the Capacity Building support category. A support coordinator helps participants implement their NDIS plans, builds skills to manage their supports, and works towards greater independence over time.
Rather than providing support directly, a Support Coordinator works alongside you to help you understand your plan, connect with providers, coordinate appointments, navigate the NDIS, and prepare for plan reviews. They also assist in times of crisis, major transitions, or when you need to troubleshoot issues with services.
Support Coordination is not just administrative. It’s an essential support for many participants who need help making their NDIS plan work in the real world.
Who Can Get Support Coordination Funded?
Support Coordination is not tied to a particular diagnosis or disability type. Instead, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) considers whether you require support to implement and manage your plan.
You may be eligible for Support Coordination if:
- Your support needs are complex or constantly changing
- You have limited informal support from family or friends
- You’re new to the NDIS and need help getting started
- You need help connecting with the right providers
- You require assistance during transitions (e.g. moving home, leaving hospital, starting SIL)
- You are at risk of not using your NDIS funding effectively without support
It’s important to remember that Support Coordination must be considered “reasonable and necessary” under NDIS guidelines. And this, like all NDIS funded support, requires clear evidence of why you need it.
How to Get Support Coordination Funded in Your Plan
If you believe you would benefit from Support Coordination, here are the steps to follow before and during your NDIS planning meeting or reassessment:
1. Gather Evidence
Before your plan meeting, collect as much relevant documentation as you can. This might include:
- Reports from current or previous Support Coordinators
- Letters from allied health professionals or providers
- A summary of your current situation, including any life changes or risks
- Examples of how Support Coordination has helped you in the past
This evidence should clearly explain why you cannot manage your plan without a support coordinator’s help.
2. Prepare to Explain Your Need for Support Coordination
During your planning meeting, explain how a Support Coordinator helps you. Use specific examples where possible. Make it clear that without this help, you may not be able to access or manage your funded supports properly.
3. Request It Clearly and In Writing
It’s not enough to hint that you’d like Support Coordination, you need to ask for it directly. You can also include it as a goal in your NDIS plan. For example:
“I would like to build my capacity to manage my supports with the help of a Support Coordinator.”
Including it in your written plan goals reinforces your need for this type of support.
4. Follow Up After Your NDIS Plan Is Approved
Sometimes, even when Support Coordination is discussed in your meeting, it’s not included in the final plan. If this happens, you can:
- Speak to your Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
- Request an internal review (formerly called an S100 review)
- Submit further documentation to support your case
What To Do If Support Coordination Was Removed From Your NDIS Plan?
It’s not uncommon for Support Coordination to be removed during a plan reassessment. Especially if the NDIA believes you’ve built enough capacity to manage without it.
However, many participants still rely heavily on their Support Coordinators and may find it difficult to manage their plans independently.
If your Support Coordination funding was removed and you believe it’s still needed, you can:
- Gather updated evidence from current providers
- Request a plan reassessment
- Explain the risks of not having a Support Coordinator in place
- Ask a professional to support your request in writing
Having strong, well-documented reasons can increase your chances of success.
Can You Get Support Coordination During a Plan Review?
Yes. If your circumstances have changed, or you weren’t funded for Support Coordination in your last plan, you can request it during your next scheduled plan reassessment. Or, by lodging an unscheduled review if needed.
Be sure to include updated evidence showing:
- Any new challenges you’re facing
- Why your current informal or formal supports aren’t enough
- What risks or barriers exist without this level of support
- The role a Support Coordinator would play in helping you manage these changes
Does Support Coordination Reduce My Other Funding?
No! Support Coordination is usually funded through the Capacity Building budget in your plan. It does not reduce your Core Supports, therapies, or other funding.
It’s typically provided as an additional support based on your needs.
Book A Free Consultation With A Support Coordinator
Support Coordination can make a huge difference in helping you get the most from your NDIS plan.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. Our team of experienced Support Coordinators can walk you through the process, provide guidance, and ensure you feel confident heading into your next plan review.
Book a free consultation and speak to someone who understands the NDIS and your goals.