Ever found yourself asking, “Do I need a support coordinator or a plan manager or both?” You’re not the only one. While both are there to help you get the most out of your NDIS funding, their roles are very different. So, what’s the difference?
In this guide, we’ll clear up the confusion, explaining who does what, how they help, and which one (or both) might be right for you.
What Is Support Coordination?
Support coordination is an NDIS-funded service that helps participants implement and manage their NDIS plans effectively. It’s not about managing the budget or paying invoices—that’s what plan management is for. Instead, support coordination focuses on connecting participants with the right service providers, helping them build capacity and independence.
The purpose of support coordination is to enable participants to choose wisely and manage their funding effectively to accomplish their desired outcomes. Support coordination can be especially valuable for participants with more complex needs, who may be accessing a wide range of services and supports.
What Is a Support Coordinator?
A support coordinator is a professional appointed to help NDIS participants coordinate their supports, services, and providers. Unlike an NDIS plan manager who handles financial transactions and service payments, a support coordinator works directly with the participant to implement their NDIS plan strategically.
Support coordinators are often qualified in allied health, disability support, or social work and must have a strong understanding of the NDIS framework. They also act as advocates, mentors, and problem-solvers for participants.
What Does a Support Coordinator Do?
Understanding NDIS support coordinator roles and responsibilities is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of what a support coordinator typically does:
1. Understand and Activate the NDIS Plan
Support coordinators begin by helping participants understand their NDIS plan. They explain funding categories, identify key goals, and ensure participants know what they’re entitled to.
2. Connect with Service Providers
A big part of a support coordinator’s role is linking participants with relevant service providers, from therapy and support work to housing and community services. They help compare providers and ensure a good fit for the participant’s goals and preferences.
3. Build Capacity and Confidence
The goal of support coordinators is to empower participants to independently manage their own supports in the long run. This includes developing life skills NDIS like communication, decision-making, and service negotiation.
4. Crisis Support and Problem Solving
If challenges arise, such as changes in health, unsafe living situations, or issues with providers, a support coordinator can step in to help resolve the problem quickly and effectively.
5. Monitoring and Reporting
Support coordinators also keep track of how the plan is being used and ensure services are aligned with the participant’s goals. They may be required to report progress back to the NDIS or assist with plan reviews.
How to Become a Support Coordinator
If you’re interested in a rewarding career helping others navigate the NDIS, becoming a support coordinator might be right for you. Here’s how to get started:
1. Educational Background
While there’s no strict degree requirement, many support coordinators have backgrounds in:
- Social work
- Psychology
- Allied health
- Community services
Having a diploma or degree in one of these areas boosts your credibility.
2. Skills and Qualities
You’ll need:
- Strong understanding of the NDIS
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- The ability to manage multiple cases
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
3. NDIS Worker Screening
To work as a support coordinator, you must pass the NDIS Worker Screening Check. This ensures you meet safety standards for working with people with disabilities.
4. Join a Registered Provider or Start Your Own
Many support coordinators work through registered NDIS providers. However, some operate independently. To start your own business, you must be registered with the NDIS Commission and meet all provider obligations.
What Is NDIS Plan Management?
While support coordination is about managing services and building skills, NDIS plan management is about financial administration.
A plan manager helps participants:
- Track their NDIS budget
- Pay provider invoices
- Keep financial records
- Provide budget reports
NDIS plan managers do not choose or recommend service providers. Instead, they offer participants the freedom to use both registered and non-registered providers, while taking the stress out of managing NDIS finances.
Plan management is ideal for participants who want choice and control without having to handle all the paperwork and accounting.
Key Differences Between Support Coordination and Plan Management
| Feature | Support Coordination | Plan Management |
| Purpose | Connects participants to services and supports | Manages the financial side of an NDIS plan |
| Tasks | Finding providers, setting up supports, goal monitoring | Paying invoices, managing budgets, financial reporting |
| Involvement | High – regular contact with participant | Low to moderate – mostly financial administration |
| Suitable For | Participants needing guidance with services | Participants needing help with budgeting and payments |
Recognising these differences guides participants in choosing suitable support.
Can You Have Both Services?
Yes, participants can have both support coordination and NDIS plan management in their plan, provided the NDIS has approved them. In fact, having both services often results in a smoother experience. While the plan manager handles financial duties, the support coordinator ensures services align with the participant’s goals.
Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to managing the NDIS plan.
Choosing the Right Support for You
Whether you need help coordinating services or managing your budget, knowing the difference between support coordination and plan management ensures you can make the best decision for your circumstances.
To figure out what supports you can access, have a chat with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or your current support coordinator.
Final Thoughts
Both support coordination and NDIS plan management are vital in helping participants make the most of their funding. While plan management simplifies the financial side, support coordination gives you the tools, connections, and confidence to live your best life.
If you’re looking to gain more independence, reduce stress, and maximise the value of your NDIS plan, it might be time to explore both.
Need help with your NDIS journey? Unlock Your Potential with TK Community!
Just as the right support can make all the difference in navigating your NDIS plan, TK care is here to walk alongside you. We understand that your journey is unique, and we’re passionate about providing person-centred support coordination that empowers you to achieve your goals.
Ready to take the next step? Contact TK Community today for a friendly chat and discover how our dedicated team can help you make the most of your NDIS plan!
