Support Coordination vs Just Referrals: Are You Getting Real Value?

Under the NDIS, Support Coordination is a funded capacity-building support designed to help you get the most from your plan. It's not just about giving you a list of provider phone numbers. A genuine support coordinator works with you to understand your goals and then builds a support network to achieve them.

Think of it this way: a simple referral service might hand you a directory. A support coordinator helps you choose the right provider from that directory, negotiates service agreements, sets up the supports, and checks that everything is working well for you. The NDIS defines three levels:

1. Support Connection: Short-term help to connect with providers and understand your plan.
2. Support Coordination: Ongoing help to build your skills, manage your supports, and navigate challenges.
3. Specialist Support Coordination: For complex situations, often involving high risks or many service providers.

Your coordinator should be actively involved in plan implementation, which means turning the goals in your NDIS plan into real-life activities and supports.