If you’ve received your NDIS plan (or you’re about to) and you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the terms, categories, and decisions—take a deep breath. You’re not alone. Getting help with the NDIS process often means having someone help you get clarity on what all the terms mean. Let’s start with these roles ‘Support Coordination’ and ‘Plan Management’.
Support Coordination and Plan Management are often confused. Although they sound similar, they’re actually quite different. Understanding the difference can save you stress, time, and money.
At Shield of Care, we provide support coordination and work closely with trusted plan managers we can connect you with. Here’s a simple, friendly guide to help you figure out what’s right for you.
What Is Support Coordination?
Support coordination is like having a personal guide through the NDIS maze.
A support coordinator helps you:
- Understand your NDIS plan and what you can use your funding for
- Connect with the right providers for your needs (like therapists, support workers, equipment suppliers, etc.)
- Build your confidence to make choices and manage your supports independently
- Coordinate services when you have multiple providers involved
- Solve problems when things get tricky or unexpected changes happen
At Shield of Care, we walk alongside you so you feel supported, informed, and empowered. We believe your plan should work for you—not the other way around.
What Is Plan Management?
While support coordination helps you organise and activate your supports, plan management focuses on handling the money side of your NDIS funding.
A plan manager:
- Pays invoices from your providers on your behalf
- Keeps track of your NDIS budget
- Gives you regular statements so you always know what funds are left
- Ensures everything complies with NDIS rules
Think of them as your financial assistant for your NDIS plan.
Shield of Care doesn’t offer plan management directly—but we work closely with trusted plan managers who make sure your funding is managed smoothly. If you need recommendations, we’re happy to connect you.
Do I Need Both?
Some people have just one, others have both—it depends on:
- How confident you feel managing your own budget
- How complex your supports are
- Whether you prefer a hands-on or hands-off approach
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Feature | Support Coordination | Plan Management |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Helps you activate and coordinate supports | Manages your NDIS budget |
| Focus | Building skills, connecting with services, problem-solving | Paying invoices, tracking funds, staying compliant |
| Who Does It | Your support coordinator (like us!) | A registered plan manager |
| Funded From | Capacity Building supports | Improved Life Choices funding |
| Best For | Participants with multiple providers or complex needs | Anyone who wants help managing payments |
How to Decide What’s Right for You
- If you feel confident managing your providers but hate admin → You might want plan management only.
- If you want a partner to help you find services and build independence → Support coordination is a great choice.
- If you want both peace of mind and hands-on help → Choose both (many participants do).
How Shield of Care Can Help
We specialise in support coordination and pride ourselves on walking alongside you—not just ticking boxes.
When you choose Shield of Care, you get:
- A dedicated coordinator who listens and understands your unique goals
- Support navigating complex funding arrangements
- Access to our network of trusted plan managers if you want them to handle your invoices
- A team that believes in your dignity, independence, and purpose
Next Steps: Let’s Make Your Plan Work for You
If you’re unsure which option is right for you—or you just want someone to talk you through your plan—our team at Shield of Care is here.
📞 Call us for a friendly chat: 1300 289 132
📥 Send us an enquiry: Use this form to provide your details and we will get in touch!
📄 Download our free “Getting Started with the NDIS” Checklist:
Your NDIS plan should feel like a pathway forward, not a maze! Let us walk the journey with you.
Shield of Care — With You. For You. Always.