You can change your NDIS support coordinator at any time, and you don’t need to get permission from the NDIA. If your current coordinator isn’t working out, it’s completely normal to want a change. You don’t need a big reason to switch. Having the right coordinator helps you make progress toward your goals, so it’s better to act if things aren’t working.
Why You Might Be Unhappy With Your Support Coordinator
There are common reasons people decide to change coordinators. Maybe your calls and emails aren’t answered, your coordinator always recommends services from their own organisation, or you feel like your goals aren’t being heard. These don’t have to be dramatic issues. Wanting better communication or someone who understands you is enough, and you don’t have to give a long explanation for your decision.
Your Right to Switch Coordinators
Under the NDIS, you have the right to choose and change your providers, including your support coordinator. You can switch coordinators at any time during your plan. Usually, the NDIA doesn’t need to be involved. Your current coordinator will end the service booking, and if you’re plan-managed, they’ll let your plan manager know. This is true whether you’re NDIA-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed. The paperwork might be handled by different people, but your right to choose stays the same.
Notice Period to Change a Support Coordinator
The notice period is not set by the NDIS, but by your own service agreement. That’s why it’s important to check your agreement before making any changes. Notice periods are usually between 7 and 30 days. During this time, your current coordinator should keep supporting you as usual. If your agreement doesn’t mention a notice period, it’s best to give clear written notice and allow enough time for a smooth handover. If you’re changing coordinators close to a plan review, our plan review checklist can help you prepare.
How to Switch NDIS Support Coordinators
- Look at your service agreement to find out the notice period and any cancellation terms. Some agreements also explain what happens with any unused hours.
- Arrange for a new coordinator before you end your current arrangement. This way, you won’t have a gap in support during the handover.
- Send your current coordinator a written notice. A short, factual email is enough, and you don’t need to explain your decision in detail.
- Request a handover report or summary from your outgoing coordinator. This should cover your goals and current supports.
- Give this handover information to your new coordinator. This helps them understand your situation from the start.
What Happens to Your Funding When You Switch
Your support coordination funding stays the same when you change providers. After your current coordinator ends the service booking, any unused hours are available for your new coordinator. The rest of your plan and supports continue as usual during the change.
What If Your Coordinator Also Provides Your Other Supports?
If your support coordinator is from the same organisation that provides your other services, like personal care or allied health, you don’t have to change everything at once. You can just switch the coordination role and keep your other supports if they’re working well. This is especially important during big life changes, like leaving hospital or moving house, when keeping your other supports steady matters most. Make sure both your old and new coordinators know which supports you’re changing and which you’re keeping, so the handover goes smoothly.
If Things Don’t Go Smoothly
Most of the time, switching coordinators is straightforward. If your provider argues about the notice period, delays things, or won’t give you your information, your Local Area Coordinator or the NDIA (1800 800 110) can help. If you’ve had an unsafe or inappropriate experience, contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission at 1800 035 544.
Getting the Right Support in Place
People often think about switching coordinators during bigger life changes. Once you’ve sorted out your coordination, Carevally can help with the next steps.
If you’re looking for a new support coordinator, your Local Area Coordinator or planner can help you find the right service.
If you want to talk about your transition, you can request a conversation. If you’re a support coordinator or part of a hospital discharge team arranging care for someone else, you can make a referral.
