Who's Who in the NDIS?

A bit confused? Here is a list of some of the important roles that are involved in the creation and implementation of your NDIS plan.

An NDIA Planner approves new plans and Assistive Technology (AT) requests, such as your Home Modifications. They also review and update plans, and work with the Client (Participant) to uncover which supports and services will be best suited for the client to help them to achieve their goals.

A Local Area Coordinator (LAC) operates as a representative, or go-between, for the NDIA but works for an organisation outside NDIA (for example, Carer QLD). They assist with plan creation and plan reviews, but they cannot approve plans. For some participants, an LAC acts as a Support Coordinator (SC) and helps them to find and begin receiving services and supports.

​A Support Coordinator (SC) engages with and works for the Client (Participant) like an administrative assistant to find Providers, including Support Workers (SW) and Occupational Therapists (OT). Their role is to ensure that the participant understands their plan and are making the most out of their available services and supports. A Support Coordinator will gather documentation to help prepare you for plan reviews and submissions to NDIA for approval, etc.

A Support Worker (SW) also works for the Client (Participant) on a day-to-day basis with assistance in the home (Daily Assistance) and/or outside the home (Community Access Assistance). Support Workers duties vary but can include helping with tasks relating to mobility, household chores, personal care, shopping, engaging in hobbies and interests, making and attending appointments, and more. They also provide emotional support to participants and assist them to increase their confidence, independence and overall well-being.

​Occupational Therapists (OT) are skilled professionals who may specialise in areas such as mental health, paediatrics, physical rehabilitation and more. They work with participants to understand their individual goals and interests and conduct Functional Assessments, which involves identifying how participants can achieve these goals. An OT will prepare reports and recommendations, including but not limited to, Home Modifications and certain non-standard Consumables and Assistive Technology (AT). The OT will send their reports and recommendations to the NDIA for approval.