Your NDIS Support Team: The Difference Between Support Coordinators and Local Area Coordinators

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can sometimes feel overwhelming for participants and their families, especially when you're trying to make the best decisions for your care and future. Two roles that are often misunderstood are the Support Coordinator and the Local Area Coordinator (LAC). While both aim to guide participants through their NDIS journey, they offer different types of support. Knowing how they differ can help you feel more confident and in control of your plan.

What Does a Support Coordinator Do?

A Support Coordinator is someone funded through your NDIS plan to work closely with you in a more hands-on, personalised way. They take the time to understand your individual goals and help you make the most of your plan by connecting you with the right supports and services.

Some of the ways a Support Coordinator can support you include:

• Helping you understand what’s in your NDIS plan and how to use your funding.
• Linking you with service providers, community groups, and informal supports that suit your needs and preferences.
• Assisting with bookings, service agreements, and setting up appointments.
• Supporting you during times of change or challenges in your life.
• Helping you prepare for NDIS plan reviews and gather the right information.
• Building your confidence to manage your plan more independently over time.

Support coordination is especially helpful for participants who have complex needs, are navigating multiple services, or simply need someone by their side to ensure their plan is working well.

What Is the Role of a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)?

Local Area Coordinators (LACs) are employed by partner organisations contracted by the NDIA. Their role is to help people access the NDIS and to promote inclusion within the broader community.

A Local Area Coordinator's role may include:

• Assisting people to apply for the NDIS and understand the planning process.
• Working with participants to develop their first NDIS plan.
• Helping connect participants to local services and community resources.
• Providing general advice or small updates to your plan.
• Offering limited support if a Support Coordinator isn’t funded in your plan.

While LACs play an important role in helping people start their NDIS journey, they are not able to provide the same level of individualised and ongoing support that a Support Coordinator can.

Key Differences at a Glance

Why Choose Support Coordination with McArthur Community Care?

At McArthur Community Care, we understand that every NDIS journey is unique. We’re here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, reassurance, and practical support that’s centred around you. Our Support Coordinators are experienced, compassionate, and committed to helping you live the life you choose.

When you work with us, you can expect:

• A dedicated Support Coordinator who listens and takes time to understand your goals and challenges.
• Clear guidance to help you make informed choices about your supports.
• Trusted connections to providers who suit your needs and values.
• Ongoing support to ensure everything is running smoothly — and to step in when things need to change.
• Encouragement and tools to build your independence, at your own pace.

We’re here not just to help manage your plan, but to empower you, every step of the way.

Let’s Make Your NDIS Plan Work for You

If you're feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just ready for a more personalised approach, reach out to McArthur Community Care today. Our support coordination services are here to help you get the most from your NDIS plan - with care, respect, and a focus on what matters to you.