If you’ve been looking into the NDIS and keep coming across the term “Level 3 Support Coordination,” you might be wondering what it actually means—and how much it costs. You’re definitely not the only one.
Support coordination can sometimes sound technical, but really, it’s about making your NDIS plan work smoothly for you. Level 3 support coordination is designed for participants with more complex needs—the kind of situations where having a specialist by your side makes a big difference.
In this blog, we’ll walk through what Level 3 support coordination involves, how much it costs, how it compares with other levels, and answer some of the most common questions people have about it. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of how it all works and whether it’s the right fit for your situation.
What is Level 3 Support Coordination?
Alright, let’s start with the basics.
Support coordination in the NDIS comes in three levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Think of them like different “tiers” of support, depending on how much help you need.
- Level 1 (Support Connection): This is the lightest level. It’s basically a bit of guidance to help you start using your plan.
- Level 2 (Coordination of Supports): This is the most common. A coordinator helps you understand your plan, connect with providers, and manage everything day-to-day.
- Level 3 (Specialist Support Coordination): This is the big one. It’s for people with complex needs or challenging situations where standard support just isn’t enough.
Level 3 is like having a specialist in your corner – someone who’s skilled in handling complicated cases, crisis situations, and multiple services all working together. It’s not just about connecting you to providers, it’s about problem-solving, advocacy, and making sure your supports actually work for you.
Why Do Rates Even Matter?
Money talk isn’t fun, but when it comes to the NDIS, it’s super important to understand how rates work.
Here’s the good news: you’re not paying these rates out of your pocket. They’re covered by your NDIS plan. But knowing what things cost helps you:
- Make the most of your budget
- Understand where your funding is going
- Avoid surprises when you see your plan breakdown
For example, if you’ve got a certain number of hours of support coordination funded, you’ll want to know how much each hour is worth so you can figure out how far that budget stretches.
Level 3 Support Coordination Rates (NDIS Price Guide)
Okay, here’s the part you came for – the actual numbers.
The NDIS sets the prices for support coordination in their Price Guide (they update this every year). Providers can’t just charge whatever they want; they have to stick to the guide.
As of the latest update:
- Level 2 Support Coordination (Coordination of Supports): Around $100–$150 per hour
- Level 3 Support Coordination (Specialist Support Coordination): Around $190.54–$285.80 per hour (depending on your region)
Now, those numbers might vary slightly depending on your location and the latest guide, but that’s the general ballpark.
So yes – Level 3 is more expensive than Level 2. But remember, it’s also a more specialised service. You’re paying (through your NDIS budget) for someone with higher skills, more training, and the ability to manage complex needs.
Here’s a quick example:
All of this comes out of your Capacity Building budget – not your personal savings.
Let’s say your plan funds you for 30 hours of specialist support coordination for the year.
At roughly $195 an hour, that’s around $5,850 in total.
FAQs About Level 3 Support Coordination
Q1: What is Level 3 support coordination?
Level 3 support coordination is the highest level of support coordination in the NDIS. It’s designed for people with complex or high needs. That could mean dealing with multiple providers, health challenges, housing issues, or situations where things often get complicated.
In short: it’s not just connecting you to services – it’s helping you navigate tough challenges, making sure your supports actually work together, and stepping in during a crisis.
Think of it as the NDIS equivalent of having a case manager who knows the system inside out.
Q2: How much does Level 3 support coordination cost?
Level 3 support coordination costs around $190–$285per hour (based on the NDIS Price Guide).
You don’t pay this yourself – it’s covered by your NDIS plan if you’ve been approved for it. The cost is higher than Level 2 because you’re getting a more specialist service.
Q3: What is the Level 3 NDIS package?
The “Level 3 NDIS package” usually refers to the funding you get in your plan specifically for Specialist Support Coordination.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all deal – the number of hours and the total budget depends on your situation. If the NDIA recognises that you have complex needs or a lot of coordination challenges, they’ll include Level 3 funding in your plan.
In practical terms, this means you’ll have a set number of hours of specialist coordination to use throughout the year.
Q4: How much can I charge my NDIS client?
If you’re a provider, this one’s for you. You can’t charge more than the NDIS Price Guide. The rates are capped.
So, if the guide says the maximum rate for Specialist Support Coordination is $285.50 an hour, that’s the most you can bill. No sneaky extra charges allowed.
This protects participants and keeps everything fair.
Q5: Who can access Level 3 support coordination?
Level 3 support coordination is usually funded for participants with complex situations—this might include mental health challenges, behavioural concerns, multiple disabilities, or unstable living arrangements. The NDIA decides based on your individual circumstances.
Q6: What does a Level 3 support coordinator actually do?
A Level 3 support coordinator takes on more than just connecting you to services. They:
- Help you manage crises and urgent situations
- Work with multiple providers and ensure they’re on the same page
- Support you with housing, health, or behaviour challenges
- Advocate for you if services aren’t meeting your needs
- Build long-term strategies to make your plan work better
Q7: How is Level 3 different from Level 2 support coordination?
The key difference is the complexity of support.
- Level 2: For people who need moderate help managing their plan.
- Level 3: For people who need specialist knowledge and high-level problem-solving.
So if your situation involves multiple services, tricky coordination, or frequent crises, Level 3 is the right fit.
Q8: Do I have to apply for Level 3 support coordination?
You don’t apply separately, but you or your planner can request it during your NDIS planning meeting. The NDIA will look at your needs and decide if Level 3 funding should be included in your plan.
Q9: Can I switch from Level 2 to Level 3 support coordination?
Yes, but it depends on your situation. If your needs become more complex, you can request a plan review and ask for Level 3 support coordination to be considered. Evidence from doctors, psychologists, or other professionals can help strengthen your case.
Q10: How many hours of Level 3 support coordination will I get?
It varies. The NDIA doesn’t give everyone the same number of hours—it depends on your personal needs. Some people may get just a few hours a month, while others may need much more.
Choosing the Right Support Coordinator
Here’s the thing – rates matter, but they’re not the only thing to look at when choosing a support coordinator.
You’ll also want to ask yourself:
- Do they have experience with situations like mine?
- Are they good at communication (plain talk, not jargon)?
- Do they actually listen to me and understand what I want?
- Do they know the local providers and services in my area?
The right support coordinator should feel like part of your team – not just someone ticking boxes.
Wrapping It Up
So, let’s recap:
- Level 3 support coordination is for people with complex needs who need a specialist.
- It costs around $190.54–$285.80 per hour, but it’s covered by your NDIS plan.
- The funding you get depends on your situation – no two plans look the same.
- Providers can’t charge more than the official NDIS Price Guide.
At the end of the day, Level 3 support coordination isn’t just about the money – it’s about getting the right kind of help to actually make your NDIS plan work for you.
Ready to Talk About Level 3 Support Coordination?
Still a bit unsure about Level 3 support coordination? Or wondering whether it’s the right fit for your plan? Don’t stress – you’re not alone.
👉 Get in touch with our team today. We’ll chat through your situation, explain your options in plain language, and help you figure out the best way forward.
Because the NDIS doesn’t have to be overwhelming – not when you’ve got the right support in your corner.
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