Levels of Support Coordination Explained
Support Coordination is a service designed to help participants make the most of their NDIS plan, but not all support coordination is the same.
In this blog, we’ll break down the three levels of Support Coordination, what they mean, and how to know which one is right for you or your loved one.
1. Support Connection
What it is:
Support Connection is the most basic level of support coordination. It’s short-term and designed to help participants connect with service providers and understand how to use their plan effectively.
Best suited for:
People who have informal supports (like family or friends), straightforward support needs, or who are just starting out with the NDIS.
What it includes:
Helping you understand your NDIS plan
Linking you with providers and community supports
Setting up your initial services
2. Support Coordination (Coordination of Supports)
What it is:
This is the most commonly funded level of support coordination. It involves ongoing help to coordinate supports and services, and to navigate more complex parts of the NDIS.
Best suited for:
People with more complex needs, or those requiring a mix of formal and informal supports.
What it includes:
Assisting you to choose and connect with providers
Supporting you to build your skills in managing supports
Helping with service agreements and bookings
Monitoring your services to ensure they’re working well
Preparing for plan reviews and adjusting supports as your needs change
3. Specialist Support Coordination
What it is:
Specialist Support Coordination is a higher-level, time-limited support for participants who face significant barriers to accessing and maintaining services.
Best suited for:
People with high-risk or very complex situations - such as involvement with multiple government systems (e.g., housing, justice, mental health), or where there are urgent health or safety concerns.
What it includes:
Intensive support and crisis management
Developing long-term solutions for complex challenges
Coordinating between multiple systems and services
What else do you need to know?
The NDIS doesn’t automatically include Support Coordination in every plan - it’s based on individual needs.
The level of Support Coordination you receive depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and support needs.
If you believe Support Coordination would benefit you, it’s important to discuss this in your planning meeting and explain why it’s needed.
Need help or advice about Support Coordination?
Reach out to a registered NDIS provider or Support Coordinator in your area to learn more about what’s available.
