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The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a system designed to support people living with disability in Australia. Participants receive funding to help them live more independent and fulfilling lives. While it’s been around for a few years now, the NDIS is still quite complicated and mysterious – and that’s due in no small part to the jargon!
While Local Area Coordinators and Support Coordinators aim to connect you to NDIS-funded services, there are key differences in how they do this. Understanding these roles can help you make the best choices for your NDIS journey.
What is a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)?
Community link
An LAC is your primary point of contact when you are exploring your eligibility for the NDIS, and also when you are beginning your NDIS journey. They introduce you to the system itself and the types of supports available.
Planning assistance
LACs work with you to develop your NDIS plan. This is an important task, as it will set the tone for your NDIS journey. To complete the planning process, your LAC will gather information about your needs and goals. They’ll also compile some suggestions about supports that will help you with these. The turnaround time can vary depending on demand for LAC support in your area.
Free, community-based service
There's no cost to access support from an LAC. They offer assistance to anyone interested in knowing more about the NDIS, even those without a formal plan.
If an LAC decides that someone is not eligible for the NDIS, they’ll refer them to other programs and resources.
Broad focus
LACs work within a specific geographic area, supporting a wide range of NDIS participants with varying needs. The clear benefit here is local knowledge: a LAC with a good awareness of supports and programs in the region can be very helpful.
What is a Support Coordinator?
Plan implementation specialist
A Support Coordinator helps you put your NDIS plan into action. They connect you with suitable providers and services that align with your goals and specific needs. A Support Coordinator has some learned or lived experience that they can apply to help you navigate the system.
Finding providers
Support Coordinators can find the right support workers, therapists, or organisations for you. Once providers have been identified, they can even help you negotiate prices for services.
NDIS funded
Yes, Support Coordinators come at no cost to you! If you have funding in your plan for them, the NDIS will cover their fees.
Not all participants will receive this funding, however. If in doubt, look through your Capacity Building budget for any mention of "Support Coordination". Hour allocation will depend on your needs as determined by the NDIS.
Personalised focus
A Support Coordinator offers ongoing, one-on-one guidance. Over time, they get to know you really well, and their support grows more and more tailored to your specific needs and goals.
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Balancing needs and support
Phew! That was quite a comprehensive breakdown of both roles. If you’re still not sure where the difference lies, here's another way to think about it: an LAC helps you create your NDIS plan, while a support coordinator helps you manage and use that plan. Each offers a distinct level of support…
Think of an LAC as a general guide
Talking to an LAC is a great starting point if you're new to the NDIS. You don't necessarily need an official plan to receive their support; this makes them beneficial for exploring your options and getting initial guidance.
Think of a Support Coordinator as an expert in more complex needs
People with complex needs or those who want expert help to find providers and manage their services will benefit from having a Support Coordinator.
Challenges and considerations
Availability
Access to LACs and Support Coordinators can vary depending on location and demand. Some providers may have waitlists or be at full capacity for the foreseeable future.
Cost
LAC services are completely free, while Support Coordinators will use the funding allocated to them within your NDIS plan.
Individual circumstances
The "best" choice depends heavily on your unique situation. Consider your needs, your disability, and how confident you feel in managing your own supports.
Making the right choice
If you're not sure which type of support is right for you, reach out to your current LAC (if you have one) or the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Ask for help to understand your options.