Did you ever look at your NDIS plan and feel confused about what “support connection” vs. “coordination of supports” really means for you?. Many NDIS participants and their families are unsure about the different levels of support coordination and which is right for their needs. Understanding these supports can make it easier to get the most from your NDIS plan and access the services that will help you achieve your goals.

In this guide, we explain what levels of support coordination are, how each level works, and who they are designed for. By the end of this blog, you will have a clearer understanding of your options and be better prepared to make informed decisions about your NDIS supports.

Understanding Support Coordination in the NDIS

Support coordination is an NDIS-funded service covered within the capacity-building budget of your plan, helping participants connect with the right providers and make the best use of their funding. It is designed to help people access the supports they need and build the skills to manage their services with confidence.

There are two main levels of support coordination under the NDIS, and each is designed for participants with different support needs. Understanding the levels of support coordination can help you determine which level is most suitable for your situation and ensure your NDIS plan provides the right type of assistance.

What Is Level 1 Support Coordination

Level 1 support coordination, also known as Support Connection, is designed for participants who need some help getting started with their NDIS plan but can manage most of their supports independently. A Support Connection provider helps participants understand their NDIS plan, find suitable service providers, and start using their funded supports. They explain how the plan works and help participants get connected with the right services.

Level 1 Support Connection is usually suitable for people who have support from family, friends, or carers and only need short-term guidance. Once the right services are in place, participants are generally expected to manage their own supports with little ongoing help. If they need more support later, they can discuss other options during their next plan review.

What Is Level 2 Coordination of Supports

Level 2 Coordination of Supports provides a higher level of assistance for participants who need ongoing support to manage their NDIS plan and services. It is designed for people with more complex circumstances or support needs. A support coordinator works with you to organise your services and make sure your supports are working well. They can help solve problems, coordinate different providers, and prepare you for your NDIS plan review.

At Level 2 Coordination of Supports, they also check in regularly to see if your needs have changed and help you make changes when needed. If you are unsure about your funding or services, they can explain everything in simple terms and answer your questions. They can also help you connect with new providers if your current supports are no longer meeting your needs. 

Key Differences Between Support Connection and Coordination of Supports

There are some important differences between the two levels of support coordination that can help you answer the question, “Which support coordination level do I need?” Here are the main areas where Level 1 and Level 2 differ: 

Level of Support

Level 1 focuses on getting you started with your NDIS plan, while Level 2 provides ongoing support to manage your plan and services over time.

Complexity of Needs

Level 1 is suitable for participants with straightforward support needs. Level 2 is designed for people with more complex or changing circumstances who need regular assistance.

Managing Providers

With Level 1, you are expected to manage your providers after the initial setup. With Level 2, your support coordinator continues to work with you, helping coordinate multiple providers and resolve any issues.

Plan Reviews and Challenges

Level 2 coordinators also help prepare for NDIS plan reviews, solve problems as they arise, and provide support during more challenging situations. This level of ongoing involvement is generally not included in Level 1 support.

How the NDIS Decides Which Level You Get

The NDIS determines the appropriate level of support coordination based on your individual needs, goals, and circumstances. During your planning meeting, the NDIA will consider how much support you need to understand and manage your NDIS plan.

They may look at factors such as your disability, living arrangements, the number of services you use, and the support you receive from family or carers. The goal is to provide the level of support that best helps you use your plan and build your independence. If you believe the level of support coordination in your plan does not meet your needs, you can discuss it with the NDIA and request a plan review if your circumstances have changed.

Common Mistakes People Make With Support Coordination

Understanding what levels of support coordination are also means knowing what to watch out for when using it. Here are some common mistakes and what to do instead:

• Choosing the wrong level of support coordination: Selecting a support level that does not match your needs can limit the assistance you receive. Make sure your support coordination level reflects your current situation.
• Not using your allocated support hours: Some participants do not fully use the support coordination hours available in their plan. Work with your coordinator to use these hours effectively.
• Not communicating regularly with your coordinator: Failing to share changes in your needs, goals, or circumstances can affect the quality of your supports.
• Expecting your coordinator to provide personal care: Support coordinators help manage your plan, connect services, and coordinate supports. Personal care is provided by support workers.
• Waiting too long before a plan review: Delaying review can make it harder to collect evidence and explain your changing support needs. Our guide on NDIS plan review tips covers exactly what to prepare and how to get the right outcome. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Support Coordination

To get the most from your support coordination, be clear about your goals and discuss them with your support coordinator. The better they understand what you want to achieve, the more effectively they can help you use your NDIS plan.

Stay in regular contact with your coordinator and let them know if your needs, health, or circumstances change. Ask questions whenever you are not sure about your plan or the supports available, and speak up if something is not working. 

A good support coordinator will not only help you connect with services but also build your confidence and skills so you can manage your supports more independently over time.

Ready to Find the Right Support Coordination for You

Choosing the right level of support coordination doesn’t have to be confusing. At Hyre Support Coordination, we help NDIS participants understand their plans, connect with the right supports, and make the most of their funding.

Whether you’re exploring which level of support coordination you need or looking for guidance on your current plan, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to find the support that’s right for your goals and needs.