There is a lot of confusion around NDIS Support Coordination.
Many participants and families make decisions based on things they’ve heard — not on how Support Coordination actually works.
These misunderstandings can lead to:
- Missed supports
- Unused funding
- Frustration and stress
- People feeling they’re “doing the NDIS wrong”
Let’s clear things up.
Below are some of the most common myths about Support Coordination — and the truth behind them.
First, a quick reminder: What is Support Coordination?
Support Coordination is a service funded under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that helps participants:
- Understand their NDIS plan
- Connect with the right supports
- Coordinate services
- Navigate changes, challenges, and reviews
Now, let’s address the myths.
Myth 1: “Support Coordinators tell you what to do”
❌ The myth
Some people believe Support Coordinators make decisions for participants or control their supports.
✅ The truth
Support Coordinators do not make decisions for you.
Their role is to:
- Explain options
- Provide information
- Support informed decision-making
You always have choice and control.
A good Support Coordinator works with you, not over you.
Myth 2: “Support Coordination is only for people with complex needs”
❌ The myth
Support Coordination is sometimes seen as something only people with very high or complex needs require.
✅ The truth
Support Coordination can benefit:
- New NDIS participants
- People with multiple providers
- Participants experiencing life changes
- Families and carers needing guidance
Even people with “simple” plans can feel overwhelmed — and Support Coordination can help make things clearer and easier.
Myth 3: “Support Coordination and Plan Management are the same thing”
❌ The myth
These two roles are often confused and used interchangeably.
✅ The truth
They are completely different services:
- Support Coordination helps organise and coordinate supports
- Plan Management handles payments, invoices, and budgets
They often work together, but they do not do the same job.
Myth 4: “You have to stay with the Support Coordinator you’re given”
❌ The myth
Some participants think they cannot change their Support Coordinator once one is assigned.
✅ The truth
You can choose and change your Support Coordinator.
If your current Support Coordinator:
- Doesn’t communicate clearly
- Doesn’t listen
- Doesn’t feel like the right fit
You have the right to look for one who better suits your needs.
Myth 5: “Support Coordination is just paperwork”
❌ The myth
Support Coordination is sometimes viewed as purely administrative or paperwork-based.
✅ The truth
While documentation is part of the role, Support Coordination is mainly about:
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Advocacy
- Connecting people to real supports
It’s about making your plan work in real life, not just on paper.
Myth 6: “If I have an LAC, I don’t need Support Coordination”
❌ The myth
Some participants believe Local Area Coordinators (LACs) provide the same support.
✅ The truth
LACs and Support Coordinators have very different roles.
- LACs provide general information and help with plan access
- Support Coordinators provide ongoing, individual support
LACs often manage many participants and cannot offer the same level of personalised, ongoing coordination.
Myth 7: “Support Coordination is only short-term”
❌ The myth
Support Coordination is sometimes seen as a temporary service that should end quickly.
✅ The truth
Some people use Support Coordination short-term, others long-term.
It depends on:
- Your goals
- Your confidence
- The complexity of your supports
As long as it’s funded in your plan and helpful to you, it can continue.
Myth 8: “Using Support Coordination means you’re not independent”
❌ The myth
Some people feel using Support Coordination means they’re failing or not capable.
✅ The truth
Support Coordination is about building independence, not reducing it.
A good Support Coordinator:
- Builds your knowledge
- Strengthens your confidence
- Helps you feel more in control over time
Many participants become more independent with the right support.
Why These Myths Matter
Believing these myths can lead to:
- Under-using funded supports
- Avoiding help when it’s needed
- Feeling overwhelmed or unsupported
Understanding the truth helps participants make better choices and feel more confident in their NDIS journey.