Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a shared journey—not just for participants, but for the families, carers, and loved ones who support them every day. At APTOS, we understand the vital role families play, and we know that support coordination can ease the load. This article explores how NDIS support coordination benefits families, what to expect from a coordinator, and how working together can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
What Is NDIS Support Coordination?
NDIS support coordination is a funded service designed to help participants make the most of their NDIS plans. A support coordinator works with you to understand your goals, connect with service providers, manage your funding, and build the skills to navigate the system independently over time.
But support coordination isn’t just about the participant—it’s also a key resource for families who are part of the support network.
Why Families and Carers Matter
Families and carers are often the people who know the participant best. They provide emotional support, daily assistance, advocacy, and continuity of care. But these responsibilities can also bring stress, burnout, or uncertainty about how to access help.
That’s where support coordination can step in: to offer families guidance, reduce the administrative burden, and empower everyone involved.
How Support Coordinators Help Families
1. Clarifying the NDIS Process
The NDIS can be complex, especially for new participants. Support coordinators help families:
- Understand how the plan is structured
- Learn about different types of funding (Core, Capacity Building, Capital)
- Identify what supports are available and how to access them
- Explain rights, responsibilities, and how to request reviews
2. Reducing Administrative Pressure
Families often find themselves chasing paperwork, managing appointments, or coordinating providers. A support coordinator can:
- Organise service bookings and agreements
- Help troubleshoot issues with providers or plan usage
- Monitor budgets to ensure funding is used effectively
- Assist with preparing for plan reviews
This relieves the family from acting as a “case manager” and allows them to focus more on their relationship with the participant.
3. Finding the Right Services
Coordinators have local knowledge of trusted providers and community options. For families, this means:
- Finding therapists, support workers, or day programs that are a good fit
- Matching cultural, language, or lifestyle preferences
- Reducing trial-and-error stress when choosing services
APTOS coordinators take the time to listen and understand what will work best for each unique family.
4. Supporting Carer Wellbeing
Support coordination can also connect carers and family members to relevant supports for themselves, such as:
- Carer support groups or respite options
- Counselling or mental health services
- Information on Carer Gateway or My Aged Care
When families are supported, participants are better supported too.
5. Building Participant Independence
For many families, the long-term goal is helping their loved one gain more independence. Support coordinators can:
- Encourage skill development and confidence building
- Help identify steps toward independent living, education, or employment
- Reduce reliance on family members for day-to-day decisions
This gradual shift benefits both participants and carers.
Involving Families in the Planning Process
Support coordination includes the option of involving families in key NDIS discussions, if the participant agrees. This may include:
- Helping prepare for planning or review meetings
- Providing context about the participant’s history and needs
- Advocating alongside the participant for better outcomes
Coordinators can act as facilitators, helping balance the voices of participants and their families to ensure everyone is heard.
Real-Life Scenarios Where Families Benefit
While we don’t use fictional case studies, many public advocates and families have shared stories showing the importance of support. For example:
- Dylan Alcott, Paralympian and advocate, often acknowledges the role his family played in his journey, from early access to sport to ongoing emotional support.
- Carers Australia highlights how access to coordinated services can reduce burnout and improve quality of life for unpaid carers.
These examples show how coordination isn’t just administrative support—it’s a tool for creating more balanced, sustainable care environments.
How APTOS Works with Families
At APTOS, our approach is collaborative, compassionate, and inclusive. We value the insight and contributions of families, and we strive to:
- Communicate openly and respectfully
- Provide regular updates if the participant consents
- Support family involvement in goal-setting and reviews
- Offer practical strategies to reduce pressure and promote carer wellbeing
We also understand the importance of cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, and empowering participants to take the lead wherever possible.
Final Thoughts
NDIS support coordination is not just about navigating the system—it’s about building strong, sustainable support networks. When families and carers are included, informed, and supported, everyone benefits.
Want to know how support coordination can help your family? Contact APTOS today to speak with a friendly team member who understands your needs.
