”Support Coordination remains crucial for NDIS participants. Learn about the recent changes and how you can still access this support.
Feeling overwhelmed by your NDIS plan? Support Coordination helps participants, their families and carers understand their funding, connect with providers, navigate the system, and more. However, recent legislative changes, effective October 3rd, 2024, have altered how participants without dedicated Support Coordination funding can access this crucial service. Read on to understand these changes and explore your options for getting the support you need.
Understanding Support Coordination
Support Coordination is a service funded as a separate item under the Capacity Building budget of your NDIS plan. It helps participants understand and navigate their NDIS plans effectively. A Support Coordinator plays a crucial role in assisting you with:
- Engaging with various service providers
- Ensuring service agreements align with your budgetary constraints
- Regularly monitoring your NDIS funding
- Applying for disability housing
- Gathering reports and evidence
- Building your overall capacity to understand and navigate the complexities of the NDIS
- Assisting you with plan reviews with the NDIS
The Impact of Recent NDIS Legislation Changes
Update Effective from 3 October 2024
Recent changes to NDIS legislation have unfortunately made it more challenging for participants who do not have specific Support Coordination funding in their plan to access this assistance.
Previously, a Support Coordinator could work with you by accessing funding from another category within your plan (such as Core or Capacity Building) to establish a short-term Support Coordination Package. However, this is no longer permitted under the new legislation.
Accessing Support Coordination Now Without Specific Funding
While directly drawing funds from other categories for Support Coordination is no longer an option, you can still access the expertise of a Support Coordinator through a fee-for-service arrangement.
Under this arrangement, a Support Coordinator can work with you to:
- Help you in getting reports and assessments prepared for your NDIS plan review.
- Request the addition of Support Coordination in your plan.
Typically, a fee-for-service agreement for this type of assistance might involve around 4-6 hours of work, charged at the standard NDIS Support Coordination rate, and you would be invoiced directly for these services.
Why Support Coordination Remains Invaluable
As the rules and regulations surrounding the NDIS are constantly evolving, having a knowledgeable Support Coordinator to assist you through every step of the way is becoming increasingly valuable. They can ensure you understand your plan, know how your funding can be used, and help you navigate complex processes like plan reviews.
For more information
While the direct reallocation of funds for a Support Coordination Package is no longer possible, if you are looking for assistance in preparing for a plan review and requesting Support Coordination to be added to your plan, reach out to Focal. Our team of experienced Support Coordinators has the capacity to assist anyone looking for help in understanding their NDIS plan under the new legislation. By speaking with one of our friendly team members, you will receive personalised advice to help you navigate your options effectively.
Written by: Scott Thomson
Support Coordination Manager
Scott brings years of experience working within disability services. Having worked within multiple disability service organisations, Scott has a thorough understanding of what makes a positive experience for participants under the NDIS and values his role in supporting participants and families in a hands-on way.
