Some government programs are complicated. The NDIS isn’t—at least not when you cut through the jargon and get down to what it actually does. So, if you’ve ever found yourself asking, “What does the NDIS really do?” or “Who’s actually responsible for what?”—you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not behind. Let’s break it down in plain English, with just enough strategy and science to help it stick.

So, what is the NDIS responsible for?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program designed to support Australians living with significant and permanent disability. But it’s not a welfare scheme. It’s not a one-size-fits-all package either.

Here’s what the NDIS is actually responsible for:

• Providing funding to eligible individuals so they can access supports that help them live independently and achieve their personal goals.

• Connecting people with community services, mainstream supports (like health, education, and housing), and informal support networks.

• Building individual capacity, meaning giving people the tools, skills, and confidence to make their own choices and participate fully in society.

But behind these responsibilities, there are layers of roles that make the machine run—starting with the participants and extending to planners, providers, and perhaps most importantly, NDIS support coordinators.

Who does what under the NDIS?

The NDIS ecosystem includes several key players—each with their own clearly defined role. Think of it like a well-run footy team. Everyone’s got a job to do, and when they all do it right, the outcomes are powerful.

NDIS Participants

• People with a disability who meet the eligibility criteria.

• They create a plan (with help) that outlines their goals and needs.

• They have control over how their funds are used—what’s known as choice and control.

NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency)

• This is the governing body that manages the NDIS.

• They assess eligibility, approve plans, and ensure providers are registered.

• They also handle quality assurance and compliance checks.

Local Area Coordinators (LACs)

• Help participants understand and access the NDIS.

• Work with the person to draft the initial plan.

• Support ongoing plan management—but not in as much detail as a support coordinator.

NDIS Support Coordinators

Here’s where things get interesting—and often misunderstood.

Support coordinators are the glue between the participant and the rest of the NDIS world. They don’t just help with logistics; they help participants understand their plan, connect with the right service providers, and build the participant’s ability to manage their supports over time.

This includes:

• Explaining the plan in simple, practical terms.

• Finding service providers that meet both budget and needs.

• Negotiating service agreements.

• Preparing for plan reviews or changes.

• Troubleshooting problems or barriers to accessing services.

They’re like personal project managers with a very human lens—balancing funding, choice, and life goals.

How is support delivered under the NDIS?

There are three levels of support funded by the NDIS:

Core Supports

These cover everyday activities such as:

• Help with personal care (bathing, dressing)

• Household tasks

• Assistance to participate in the community

• Transport to work or social events

Capacity Building Supports

These aim to develop skills for long-term independence, such as:

• Improved daily living

• Support coordination

• Social and relationship skills

• Finding and keeping a job

Capital Supports

These include investments in:

• Assistive technologies (wheelchairs, hearing aids)

• Home modifications (ramps, accessible bathrooms)

• Specialist disability accommodation

Each of these areas has its own providers and rules—but the common thread is flexibility and person-centred delivery.

What does “choice and control” really mean?

The NDIS flips the traditional disability support model on its head. Instead of assigning people to generic services, it gives them the power to choose what works best for them.

This means:

• You can choose your own providers (within your budget).

• You can ask for a new support coordinator if things aren’t working out.

• You can decide how hands-on or hands-off you want to be in managing your plan.

But choice doesn’t mean going it alone. Many participants need someone to help navigate their plan and build their skills. That’s why the NDIS support coordinator role is often one of the most crucial in helping people get value from their NDIS journey.

Why do responsibilities feel confusing sometimes?

Blame it partly on the language. Words like “capacity building” or “informal supports” aren’t exactly café chat material.

But the confusion also comes from the overlap. For example:

• A participant may have both a Local Area Coordinator and a support coordinator. Their functions can seem similar—but one is broader and short-term (LAC), while the other is deeper and ongoing (support coordinator).

• Some supports can be funded under multiple categories, depending on how they’re framed in the plan.

• Goals are flexible and personal, so no two plans look the same—even if the participants have similar needs.

That’s where behavioural science plays a sneaky role: cognitive overload can reduce engagement. When there’s too much to think about, people shut down or just default to “whatever’s easiest.” Good support workers know this and design options that feel doable—not overwhelming.

Real-world example: How a support coordinator saved the day

Take Jess, a 29-year-old in Brisbane living with an acquired brain injury. Her first NDIS plan sat untouched for six months. She didn’t know how to read it, let alone use it.

A support coordinator came in, broke it down in simple terms, and helped her identify providers who could help her regain daily living skills. Within weeks, Jess had an occupational therapist, speech therapist, and community mentor onboard. By the next plan review, she had returned to part-time work.

That’s not just support—that’s transformation.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a Local Area Coordinator and a Support Coordinator?

A Local Area Coordinator helps with initial access and planning, but a Support Coordinator provides more in-depth, ongoing support—especially for people with more complex needs.

Can I choose my own providers?

Yes, participants have full choice over which NDIS-registered (or unregistered) providers they work with, as long as it’s within the rules of their plan.

How do I know if I need a Support Coordinator?

If your plan includes Support Coordination funding, or if managing multiple providers feels overwhelming, a Support Coordinator can be a game-changer.

NDIS responsibilities aren’t random—they’re structured around participant empowerment. But for that empowerment to work, it needs translation. The right coordinator, the right providers, and the right plan all play a role in making support real, not just theoretical.

And for anyone still wondering what exactly the NDIS support coordinator role involves, this piece offers a solid breakdown.

For a deeper policy-level understanding, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is an authoritative place to start.