A Support Coordinator is a professional who assists individuals with disabilities or those who are eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia. Their role is to provide support and guidance to NDIS participants in navigating and implementing their NDIS plans effectively.

The primary purpose of a Support Coordinator is to help participants achieve their goals, maximize the benefits of their NDIS funding, and access the necessary supports and services outlined in their plan. Here are some key responsibilities of a Support Coordinator:

1. Understanding the NDIS plan: They help participants comprehend their NDIS plan, including the funding allocations, goals, and objectives.
   
   
2. Coordinating support services: Support Coordinators assist participants in connecting with and coordinating different service providers and community resources. They work closely with the participant to identify the most suitable support options based on their needs and preferences.
   
   
3. Building service agreements: They assist in developing service agreements with providers, ensuring that the supports and services align with the participant’s goals and funding arrangements.
   
   
4. Linking to community resources: Support Coordinators help participants access relevant community resources, such as support groups, advocacy services, educational programs, or employment opportunities.
   
   
5. Monitoring progress and adjustments: They monitor the implementation of the NDIS plan, ensuring that the supports and services are meeting the participant’s needs and goals. If adjustments are required, they work with the participant and relevant stakeholders to make necessary changes.
   
   
6. Capacity building: Support Coordinators aim to enhance the participant’s ability to manage their own plan over time. They provide guidance, skill development, and training to help participants become more independent and confident in managing their NDIS funding.

A Support Coordinator and a Plan Manager are two distinct roles within the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia. Here’s an explanation of the difference between the two:

A Support Coordinator is responsible for assisting NDIS participants in navigating and implementing their NDIS plans. Their primary role is to support participants in achieving their goals and accessing the necessary supports and services outlined in their NDIS plan.

A Plan Manager is responsible for managing the financial aspects of an NDIS plan on behalf of the participant. Their primary role is to handle the financial transactions and claims related to the supports and services outlined in the participant’s plan

If you’re not satisfied with your NDIS plan, you can request a plan review by contacting the NDIA.

This allows you to discuss your concerns and seek adjustments to better meet your needs.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia aims to provide reasonable and necessary supports to individuals with disabilities.

However, there are certain factors that contribute to the NDIS not covering everything. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Reasonable and necessary criteria.
2. Individualized funding approach.
3. Budget constraints.
4. Coverage limitations.
5. Role of other systems.
6. Reasonable expectation of informal support.

To be eligible for the NDIS, an individual must have a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to participate in everyday activities and require support

They must also be under the age of 65 when applying. 

https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis/how-apply 

If you turn 65 while on the NDIS, you will be transitioned to the aged care system, and your support needs will be assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) to determine the appropriate services and supports.

Yes, the NDIS emphasizes participant choice and control.

Participants have the freedom to choose their own service providers as long as they meet the necessary quality and safety standards.

The NDIS uses an individualized funding model, where funding is based on a person’s needs, goals, and reasonable expectations of informal support.

A planning meeting is conducted to assess the participant’s support requirements, and funding is allocated accordingly.

The NDIS understand that things are going to change throughout your plan period. You will need to gather reports and quotes from your service providers, mainstream services etc. explaining what has changed and what additional supports you require. Once you have these you will submit a change of circumstance form to the NDIS!