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What is a Local Area Coordinator?

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Two women, one with disability seated at a table, looking at the camera. On the table is a notepad and calculator.

This article explains what a Local Area Coordinator is, how they will help you start your NDIS plan, and when your plan is in place.

Local Area Coordinator

A Local Area Coordinator (LAC) will be part of an NDIS partner organisation.

How a LAC will help you

When you start your NDIS application

  • Help you understand the access criteria and any proof or documentation that you need to access the NDIS.
  • They can also explain and support you as you navigate access to the NDIS.
  • Help you understand and get access to the NDIS, through the supports available in your community.
  • Create an NDIS support plan. Your supports, goals, situation and needs. (They do not approve the plan)
  • For most people, your LAC will be your main point of contact for the NDIS.
  • An NDIS planner or a Local Area Coordinator will support participants to choose a recovery coach where needed. (Psychosocial Recovery Coach)
  • If you have questions or something you do not understand, your LAC can usually guide you.

When your plan is in place

  • Find and start the services in your plan.
  • Show you how to use the myplace portal.
  • Help you in the process of an internal review of your plan. (Within 3 months of your original plan.) This internal review is where someone else in the NDIA will look at your plan and make a judgement.
  • Review your plan (Generally 12 months after your plan begins.) Monitor how your plan is going.
  • Help you link to supports in education, health and transport.
  • Identify informal support measures.
  • A LAC can also assist you if you request an Administrative Appeals Tribunal Review.

Further reading

Local Area Coordination in the Spotlight

Information Sourced From

Local Area Coordinators – Partners in the Community
NDIS

IDEAS does information so you can do life. 

Available Resources

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