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Starting your journey with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming. If you’re preparing for your first NDIS plan meeting, one of the most important people you’ll work with is a NDIS Local Area Coordinator (LAC). Their role is to make sure you’re supported, informed, and prepared—before, during, and after the meeting.
This article walks you through exactly how a NDIS Local Area Coordinator helps you prepare, what to expect from your planning meeting, and practical tips to get the most out of your NDIS plan.
What Is a NDIS Local Area Coordinator?
A NDIS Local Area Coordinator is a trained professional who works on behalf of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to assist eligible participants with accessing the NDIS and implementing their plans.
Key responsibilities of a LAC include:
- Helping you understand the NDIS
- Assisting with access requests
- Supporting you to prepare for your planning meeting
- Helping you implement your NDIS plan
- Connecting you to mainstream and community supports
According to the NDIA’s 2023 Q3 Report, over 75% of new participants received support from a Local Area Coordinator to help them navigate the NDIS process.
Preparing for Your First NDIS Plan Meeting
Your first NDIS plan meeting is where the NDIA gathers information about your needs, goals, and supports to create a tailored plan. This meeting can be conducted in-person, over the phone, or via video call.
How Your LAC Helps You Prepare
Your LAC plays a crucial role in preparing for this meeting. Here’s how:
1. Understanding Your Situation
Your LAC will begin by getting to know you—your disability, daily life, goals, and current supports. This forms the foundation for your first NDIS plan.
2. Clarifying the Planning Process
The LAC will:
- Explain what will happen during the meeting
- Outline the types of questions you may be asked
- Describe what information to bring (e.g. reports, assessments, quotes)
3. Setting Your Goals
Your goals drive your NDIS plan. Your LAC will help you:
- Identify short-term and long-term goals
- Translate personal goals into NDIS language
- Prioritise what’s most important for your independence and wellbeing
4. Gathering Supporting Evidence
To ensure funding is allocated appropriately, the LAC may guide you to:
- Collect relevant documentation (e.g. functional assessments, therapy reports)
- Obtain quotes for assistive technology or supports
- Include input from allied health professionals if needed
5. Preparing a Participant Statement
This is your opportunity to tell your story in your own words. Your LAC can help you prepare a strong participant statement that covers:
- Your daily life and challenges
- Current informal, community and mainstream supports
- What supports would help you achieve your goals
6. Building Your Confidence
Your LAC isn’t just an information source—they’re a support system. They’ll encourage you to advocate for your needs and feel more confident when meeting with your NDIS planner.
What to Bring to Your Planning Meeting
To get the best outcome from your meeting, bring:
- Completed pre-planning booklets (your LAC may provide one)
- Reports from therapists or medical specialists
- A list of current supports (formal and informal)
- Quotes for any assistive technology or service requests
- Your top 2–3 goals
After the Meeting: What Happens Next?
Once your plan is approved, your LAC continues to support you by:
- Explaining how to use your plan
- Helping you find registered and unregistered providers
- Connecting you to local community programs
- Assisting with plan reviews and changes if needed
It’s also important to note that the NDIS is transitioning to a new system called PACE NDIS, which changes how participants, providers, and coordinators interact with the scheme. Your Local Area Coordinator will guide you through what this means for your plan, including how to navigate the new portal and understand changes in terminology or processes. Staying informed about PACE NDIS will ensure you’re making the most of your plan under the updated system.
Common Misconceptions About LACs
- They don’t make funding decisions. LACs support the process but do not approve or deny budgets.
- You don’t have to do it alone. Many new participants think they need to handle everything themselves—your LAC is there to help from day one.
- They’re not just for new participants. LACs can help throughout your NDIS journey, including plan reviews and connecting with services.
Final Thoughts
Your first NDIS plan meeting is an important step in accessing the right Support Coordination to live more independently. A NDIS Local Area Coordinator is there to guide you through the process, help you prepare meaningfully, and ensure your goals are clearly communicated.
By working closely with your LAC and taking the time to prepare, you’ll be in the best position to receive a plan that meets your unique needs.
