Navigating the NDIS: Local Area Coordinators vs. Support Coordinators

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel complicated, but having the right people to guide you can make a huge difference. Two key roles in the NDIS system that often cause confusion are Local Area Coordinators (LACs) and Support Coordinators. While they may sound similar, they have different responsibilities. Let’s break it down simply. 

What is a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)? 

Think of a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) as your starting point with the NDIS. They are employed by the NDIS and help you set up your plan. 

What does an LAC do? 

✅ Explains the NDIS: The NDIS is full of complex rules and terminology. An LAC can help you understand who is eligible, what funding is available, and how the system works. 

✅ Helps with planning: Before you receive NDIS funding, an LAC will help you think about your needs, goals, and what supports might be useful. They will work with you to develop your first NDIS plan. 

✅ Connects you with services: LACs know about different community supports and can point you toward useful resources such as therapists, support workers, and organisations like CPSN. 

✅ Provides general guidance: While they won’t manage your plan for you, they can answer questions and help resolve some basic issues along the way. 

✅ Can provide limited ongoing support: While their primary role is in the early stages, some LACs offer ongoing but limited assistance. They may act as a go-between between participants and the NDIS, working with Support Coordinators to gain further clarity about a participant’s journey, offer advice, and in some cases, submit review documents or supporting evidence to the NDIA on a participant’s behalf. 

️ Important to note: The level of support you receive from an LAC can vary. Some LACs are very proactive and will do their best to assist both participants and Support Coordinators, while others may provide only minimal support. This is often due to high caseloads and the workload pressures they face. 

Do I Get to Choose My LAC? 

 No. LACs are assigned based on where you live. You don’t get to pick your LAC, but they will reach out to you once you start your NDIS application. 

If you’re experiencing challenges with your current Local Area Coordinator (LAC) under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and believe that a change would better suit your needs, you have the option to request a different LAC. Here’s how you can proceed: 

1. Contact the LAC Partner Organization: LACs are employed by partner organizations contracted by the NDIS. To initiate a change, reach out directly to the organization overseeing LAC services in your area. Clearly explain your reasons for requesting a new coordinator. 

2. Communicate Your Concerns: When speaking with the partner organization, provide specific examples of the issues you’ve encountered. This clarity can assist them in understanding your situation and facilitating a smoother transition to a new LAC. 

3. Seek Support Coordination (if applicable): If you find that LAC services aren’t meeting your needs, you might consider requesting Support Coordination in your NDIS plan. Support Coordinators can offer more individualized assistance and help you navigate the NDIS more effectively. 

For detailed information on contacting your local LAC partner organization, you can visit the NDIS website’s office locations page. 

Remember, it’s essential that you feel supported and understood in your NDIS journey. Don’t hesitate to advocate for the assistance that best aligns with your needs. 

What is a Support Coordinator? 

A Support Coordinator helps you manage and use your NDIS plan effectively after it has been set up. They work for independent providers (like CPSN), and having one is optional—you can request funding for a Support Coordinator in your plan. 

What does a Support Coordinator do? 

✅ Plan Implementation: 

• Helps you find and connect with the right service providers (e.g., therapists, support workers, equipment suppliers). 

• Organises the delivery of your services to ensure you’re getting the right support. 

• Explains your NDIS plan and answers your questions about what is covered. 

✅ Advocacy & Problem-Solving: 

• Helps resolve issues with service providers or the NDIS. 

• Guides you through complicated NDIS rules and processes. 

• Advocates for your needs within the system to ensure you get the best possible support. 

✅ Building Skills & Independence: 

• Supports you in becoming more independent in managing your own supports. 

• Helps you make informed choices about the services you use and how you want to live your life. 

How Do I Get a Support Coordinator? 

If you think you need extra help managing your NDIS plan, you can ask your LAC to include Support Coordination in your planning meeting. This funding will then be listed under Core Supports in your NDIS plan. Currently, CPSN provides Support Coordination only to existing clients. 

What’s the Difference Between an LAC and a Support Coordinator? 

	Local Area Coordinator (LAC)	Support Coordinator
Who provides it?	Employed by the NDIS	Private providers (e.g., CPSN)
Do I have to pay for it?	No, this is a free service	Yes, it requires funding in your NDIS plan
Main purpose	Helps you set up your plan	Helps you use your plan effectively
Ongoing support?	Limited - varies by LAC	Yes, works with you throughout your plan
Can they communicate with providers for me?	Sometimes, but limited	Yes, they can coordinate services and speak to the NDIS on your behalf
Quality of service?	Varies depending on LAC workload and approach	More personalised and focused

Still unsure? Reach out to CPSN or your LAC for guidance on which support is right for you.