If you are new to the NDIS, the roles can sound similar. A plan manager and a support coordinator can both be part of your support team, but they do different jobs.
In short: a plan manager helps you manage the money in your plan. A support coordinator helps you use the supports in your plan.
What does a plan manager do?
A registered plan manager can help with the financial side of your NDIS supports. This can include paying provider invoices, keeping records, monitoring your budget and giving you regular reports about spending.
Plan management does not choose your providers or make decisions for you. You remain responsible for your plan, your providers and the supports you use.
What does a support coordinator do?
A support coordinator helps you understand and put the supports in your plan into action. Depending on your needs and the funding in your plan, they may help you:
- understand your plan and the supports in it;
- find and connect with providers and community services;
- set up or review service agreements; and
- build confidence and skills to manage your supports.
Can I have both?
Yes. Many people use both services. They work alongside each other: your support coordinator can focus on your goals and connections, while your plan manager manages invoices, claims, records and budget reporting.
Whether you have funding for either service is set out in your NDIS plan. If you are unsure, check your plan or speak with your my NDIS contact.
A simple example
You want to start a new therapy service.
- Your support coordinator may help you look at options, contact services and work out what fits your goals.
- Your plan manager may then receive and check the provider’s invoice, pay it from the relevant plan-managed funding and show the payment in your budget report.
Questions you can ask
When you speak with a plan manager or support coordinator, it can help to ask:
- What will you help me with?
- What decisions will I still make?
- How will we communicate and how often?
- What information or consent do you need from me?
- What happens if I am unhappy with the service?
Where to find official information
The NDIS explains that plan managers help participants keep track of funding, while support coordinators help participants connect with supports. For current information about your individual plan, read the NDIS guide to support coordinators and plan managers or contact your my NDIS contact.