Tips for Working with NDIS Local Area Coordinators (LACs)

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be complicated, especially for people new to the system or those supporting a loved one. Local Area Coordinators (LACs) play a key role in helping participants understand and access the NDIS, connecting them with community and mainstream services, and achieving their goals. This guide covers everything you need to know about working with an LAC, including practical tips, common scenarios, and recent changes in the NDIS context. [object Object]

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What is a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)?

A Local Area Coordinator (LAC) is a trained professional funded and authorised by the NDIS to support participants and people with disability in their local region. LACs are typically connected to the community, have knowledge of local services, and support people through the entire planning, implementation, and review process of the NDIS.

[object Object] Key Functions of LACs:

• Help people understand and access the NDIS.
• Assist with preparing for NDIS planning meetings. [object Object]
• Explain NDIS plans and help link participants with funded supports.
• Connect people to community and mainstream (non-NDIS funded) supports.
• Support NDIS participants to put their plan into action and review it as needed. [object Object]

Why Are LACs Important?

Navigating the NDIS process can be daunting due to its complexity and bureaucracy. LACs simplify this journey for participants by providing: [object Object]

• Personalised one-on-one support.
• Local knowledge tailored to the participant's community and circumstances.
• Ongoing assistance, not just at application—during review and throughout the plan. [object Object]

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How to Work with an NDIS LAC: Tips and Best Practices

1. Be Prepared for Your Meetings

• Before meeting your LAC, gather important documents such as medical reports, therapy notes, or any previous support plans.
• Think about your goals and needs for daily living, employment, social participation, and future. [object Object]
• Write down questions or concerns you have about NDIS or your plan.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

• Clearly explain your needs, goals, and what works or doesn’t in your current situation. [object Object]
• Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear—LACs are there to help.
• If you need support communicating (e.g., AUSLAN interpreter, Easy English), let your LAC know beforehand.

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3. Leverage the Local Connection

• Ask your LAC about disability support options, local providers, and mainstream community resources.
• Request introductions to therapists, support coordinators, or peer networks as needed.

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4. Follow Up and Stay Engaged

• After any meeting, confirm the next steps and who is responsible for what.
• Set reminders to check in with your LAC on plan progress or upcoming reviews.
• If your circumstances change (e.g., health, living situation), notify your LAC promptly. [object Object]

5. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

• LACs are impartial—they support your choices but cannot make decisions for you.
• You have the right to bring a support person (family, carer, advocate) to LAC meetings. [object Object]
• If you’re not satisfied with your LAC or feel unsupported, you can request another or make a complaint via the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

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LACs and the NDIS Journey: The Step-by-Step Process

1. Eligibility and Access [object Object]
   • LACs help you understand NDIS eligibility requirements and support your application if needed.
2. Planning Meeting Preparation
   • LACs assist with gathering evidence and setting clear support goals. [object Object]
3. Developing Your NDIS Plan
   • They help you articulate goals and discuss the kinds of supports you want funded.
4. Plan Implementation [object Object]
   • LACs link you with service providers and mainstream supports and explain budget categories.
5. Plan Review
   • Regular check-ins and plan reviews ensure supports remain aligned to your evolving needs. [object Object]

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LAC Support in the Context of Australian Migration

LACs also provide vital support if you are a recent migrant or from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background:

• LACs can facilitate access to translators or cultural liaison officers. [object Object]
• They help explain the NDIS in clear, culturally-appropriate language.
• LACs often have networks with ethnic or multicultural community groups that provide disability support.
• They assist with understanding how permanent residency or visa status interacts with NDIS eligibility (note: generally, participants must have Permanent Residency, Australian Citizenship, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa). [object Object]

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Key Benefits and Features of Working with LACs

• Free of Charge: LAC services are funded by the NDIS so there is no cost to participants.
• Local Knowledge: LACs understand the services and resources unique to each community. [object Object]
• Personal Support: One-on-one engagement tailored to participant needs and preferences.
• Holistic Approach: Support across NDIS application, planning, implementation, and review phases.
• Community Connections: Bridges to mainstream and informal supports beyond funded NDIS services. [object Object]
• Linkages with Providers: LACs can connect participants with support coordination, allied health professionals, therapists, and other disability providers.

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Common Challenges & Solutions When Working with LACs

| Challenge | Solution | [object Object] |-----------|----------| | Limited appointment time | Prepare in advance, bring a support person, prioritise discussion topics | | LAC turnover/staff changes | Request a new LAC for consistency, keep a personal record of discussions | [object Object] | Cultural/language barriers | Request interpreters or cultural liaison support | | Confusion about the NDIS plan | Ask for written summaries, request a follow-up meeting for clarification | | Infrequent contact [object Object]