What Is an NDIS Local Area Coordinator (LAC) and How Can They Help?

6 days ago

3 min read

Even if you've had an NDIS plan for years, there's always something new to work out.

Perhaps you're unsure what a particular funding category covers. Maybe you want to use a new service but don't know whether the NDIS will pay for it. Or your circumstances have changed, and you're wondering whether you need a new plan.

So, who should you ask?

One useful place to start is your Local Area Coordinator (LAC).

An LAC is a free point of contact who can help you understand the NDIS, use your plan and connect with services in your community.

Common reasons to contact an NDIS Local Area Coordinator, including plan questions, funding and finding providers

What Is an NDIS Local Area Coordinator?

Local Area Coordinators work for community organisations that partner with the NDIS. They are not NDIA employees, and you don't need to use your NDIS funding to access their assistance.

LACs generally work with people aged 9 to 64. Families with children younger than 9 usually receive assistance through an Early Childhood Partner instead.

You may first meet an LAC when applying for the NDIS, but their role doesn't necessarily end once your plan is approved.

When Should You Contact Your LAC?

There are several situations where an LAC may be able to help.

1. You're Applying for the NDIS

Not sure where to start?

An LAC can explain the application process, help you understand the eligibility requirements and guide you on gathering supporting evidence.

They cannot decide whether your application will be approved.

2. You Don't Understand Your NDIS Plan

Your plan has been approved, but you're confused about the funding.

What's the difference between Core and Capacity Building? What can you actually spend the money on?

An LAC can help explain your plan and how to start using your supports.

3. You're Unsure Whether a Service Can Be Funded

For example, you have therapy funding but aren't sure whether a particular service can be claimed.

If your plan is plan-managed, your Plan Manager is a good first point of contact. They can help you understand your available funding and whether the service appears to meet NDIS claiming requirements.

If there's still uncertainty, your LAC can help clarify the funding rules or guide you on how to seek confirmation from the NDIA.

Remember, having money available in your budget doesn't automatically mean every service can be claimed.

NDIS participant speaking with a Local Area Coordinator about their NDIS plan

4. You Need Help Finding Providers

Looking for a support worker, therapist or other NDIS services?

If you have Support Coordination funding in your plan, your Support Coordinator should be your first point of contact. They can help you find suitable providers, organise services and make sure your supports work together.

If you don't have Support Coordination funding, your LAC can help you explore available providers and connect with local services.

Either way, you remain in control of choosing your providers..

5. Your NDIS Funding Is Running Low

Perhaps you still have several months left on your plan, but your budget is nearly exhausted.

Your LAC can explain your options and help you understand whether a change to your plan may be appropriate.

However, running out of funding doesn't automatically mean the NDIS will approve more.

Your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator may also be able to help you review your current spending and support arrangements.

6. Your Circumstances Have Changed

Maybe your disability-related support needs have increased, or a family member who previously provided care can no longer help.

Your LAC can explain how to request a Plan Reassessment or Plan Variation and what supporting information may be needed.

7. You Disagree with an NDIA Decision

What if your funding has been reduced or a requested support has been declined?

Your LAC can explain the relevant review process and help you understand your next steps.

Remember that requests for an internal review of a reviewable decision are generally subject to a three-month time limit.

NDIS participant speaking with a Local Area Coordinator about their NDIS plan and available supports

What Can't an LAC Do?

An LAC can provide information, explain processes and help you connect with services.

However, they cannot approve your NDIS application, decide which supports will be funded or increase your budget.

These decisions are made by the NDIA.

How Do You Find Your LAC?

If you're unsure who your LAC is, you can:

Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
Use the NDIS website to find your local partner organisation.
Check with your existing NDIS contact.

Before getting in touch, have your NDIS number, plan and a few questions ready.

If you're asking about a particular service, explain what the service is and why you need it.

You don't need to understand every NDIS rule before asking for help.

Sometimes, knowing who to contact is the most useful first step.

At Joystep, we also help participants put their plans into practice through Support Coordination, Plan Management and Plan Application & Review Assistance.