If you’re navigating the NDIS, you’ve probably heard about Support Coordination — but is it actually free? And if not, who pays for it?
Support Coordination is designed to help you make the most of your NDIS plan. Whether it’s finding the right providers, managing your supports, or building your confidence to take charge, this service plays a key role in getting the help you need, when you need it.
In this post, we’ll break down what Support Coordination really costs in 2024–25, how it’s funded, who qualifies for it, and how to make sure you’re getting the best value from your plan — without any surprise out-of-pocket expenses.
Understanding NDIS Support Coordination
What is Support Coordination?
Support Coordination is a capacity-building service that helps participants implement their NDIS plan, linking them with the right services and helping build the skills required to manage support independently in the future.
There are three levels of Support Coordination:
Level 1: Support Connection
This entry-level service helps participants build confidence and develop basic skills to connect with providers and understand their NDIS plan. Generally provided during early stages or for those needing minimal help.
Level 2: Coordination of Supports
This is the most common form of Support Coordination. It includes managing various service providers, ensuring service delivery aligns with the participant’s goals, and building capacity for independence.
Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination
Reserved for participants with complex or high-risk needs, this level requires experienced professionals (often allied health or mental health trained) to design service responses, manage crises, and navigate complex service environments.
Each level aims to empower participants, but the complexity of needs determines the appropriate tier and cost.
How NDIS Support Coordination Is Funded
Plan Budget Categories
Support Coordination sits within the Capacity Building budget, specifically under the “Support Coordination” line item. Unlike Core supports (which are often more flexible), funds for Support Coordination are typically fixed and itemised, and cannot be transferred from other categories.
Funding Mechanisms
- NDIA-managed: The NDIA pays providers directly. Participants have limited control over provider choice.
- Plan-managed: An intermediary (Plan Manager) pays invoices on the participant’s behalf, offering greater flexibility and support.
- Self-managed: Participants pay and claim funds directly, allowing maximum choice, but requiring more administration.
Plan Allocation
During your planning or plan review meeting, the NDIA determines the amount of Support Coordination funding based on your needs, goals, and risk profile. Evidence from therapists, GPs, or existing support workers can help justify the inclusion and appropriate level of Support Coordination.
How Much Does NDIS Support Coordination Cost in 2024–25?
Updated Pricing
For the 2024–25 financial year, the NDIS Price Guide has updated some rates:
- Level 1 (Support Connection): Increased to ~$77/hour (previously ~$74.63)
- Level 2 (Coordination of Supports): Remains ~$100/hour
- Level 3 (Specialist Support Coordination): Continues at ~$190/hour
These are national base rates for non-remote areas.
Location-Based Pricing
Participants in remote or very remote locations are entitled to higher hourly rates:
- For example, Level 3 in very remote areas can attract up to ~$285.80/hour, reflecting increased costs of service delivery.
