🧠 What Does a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) Do in the NDIS?
What Does a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) Do in the NDIS?
They support goal setting, assist with planning, connect individuals to community and mainstream services, and help participants build independence and confidence.
📌 Key Takeaways
LACs help you understand and access the NDIS
They support you to set goals and prepare for your plan
They do not approve NDIS plans (this is done by the NDIA)
They help you use your plan and connect with providers
They link you to community supports—even without an NDIS plan
They promote independence, inclusion, and informed choice
🧩 What is a Local Area Coordinator?
A Local Area Coordinator (LAC) is a community-based NDIS partner who supports people with disability to navigate the NDIS and build a more independent life.
They work with participants, families, and carers to:
Understand needs and goals
Explore support options
Build skills and confidence
Connect with local services and networks
⚙️ What Does a Local Area Coordinator Do?
1. Helps You Understand the NDIS
LACs explain how the NDIS works in plain English. They can guide you through eligibility, planning, and available supports.
2. Supports NDIS Planning
They help you prepare for your NDIS plan by discussing:
Your current situation
Supports you already have
Your goals for the future
Important: LACs cannot create or approve your plan.
3. Helps You Use Your Plan
Once your plan is approved, a LAC can:
Explain your funding
Help you connect with providers
Support you to work towards your goals
Answer questions about your plan
4. Connects You to Community Supports
LACs link you with:
Social and community groups
Sports and recreational activities
Education, health, and transport services
You can access this support even without an NDIS plan.
5. Supports Plan Reviews and Changes
LACs check in on your progress and can help you request:
Plan reassessments
Plan variations if your needs change
6. Builds Inclusive Communities
LACs also work at a community level to:
Improve accessibility
Promote inclusion
Support programs funded through the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) program
🔄 LAC vs Support Coordinator (Quick Comparison)
Role Local Area Coordinator (LAC) Support Coordinator
When they help Before, during & after planning After plan approval
Focus Goals, independence, community Managing funded supports
Plan approval ❌ No ❌ No
Community connections ✅ Strong focus ⚠️ Limited
💡 Who Can Access a LAC?
People applying for the NDIS
NDIS participants
People with disability not eligible for NDIS (community connections only)
Families and carers
🧭 Why LACs Matter
Local Area Coordinators play a critical role in helping people:
Build independence
Make informed decisions
Access the right supports
Feel connected to their community
They are a bridge between the NDIS and everyday life.
What does a Local Area Coordinator do?
A Local Area Coordinator helps people understand the NDIS, prepare plans, connect with supports, and build independence.
Can a LAC approve my NDIS plan?
No, only the NDIA can approve NDIS plans.
Do I need an NDIS plan to get help from a LAC?
No, LACs can connect you to community supports even if you’re not eligible for the NDIS.
What’s the difference between a LAC and a Support Coordinator?
LACs focus on planning and community connection, while Support Coordinators help manage funded supports in your plan.
Location: Australia, Greater Sydney, South West Sydney, Liverpool, Macarthur, Camden, Campbelltown, Wollondilly, Wingecarribee and Sutherland Shires , Wollongong and the Illawarra.
Scheme: National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Audience: People with disability, families, carers
Services: Planning, community connection, capacity building
Intent: Informational / Support Navigation
⚠️ NDIS Compliance Note
This content is general information only and does not replace personalised advice. Please speak with your Local Area Coordinator, Support Coordinator, or the NDIA for guidance specific to your situation.
