Responsibilities of Support Coordinators in Monitoring NDIS Plan Spending
Empowrd • September 17, 2024
The NDIA recently issued a strong warning to Support Coordinators, cautioning that action will be taken if they enable rapid plan spending followed by requests for additional funding. Below we delve into the critical role Support Coordinators play in monitoring plan budgets and offer practical advice for doing this effectively.
The Role of Support Coordinators in Plan Utilisation
Support Coordinators are essential in helping participants navigate their NDIS plans. While they may be one part of a participant’s support system, their responsibility to "monitor plan budgets and support effectiveness" is pivotal. With the introduction of PACE, Support Coordinators now have access to real-time budget information (with participant consent), allowing for better oversight.
Support Coordinators are also responsible for safeguarding participants. According to the NDIS Participant Safeguarding Policy, they are tasked with identifying risks, such as over or under-spending a participant’s plan, and notifying the NDIA. If a participant requires additional help to manage their budget, Support Coordinators can suggest capacity-building support or tools like budgeting apps, which can be funded by the NDIS if deemed reasonable and necessary.
Balancing Choice, Control, and Reasonable Use of Funds
While participants have the right to exercise choice and control in how they spend their NDIS funds, this must align with the principle of "reasonable and necessary" support. If a participant uses their funds intensively, it might be appropriate in certain cases. However, if they rapidly exhaust their Core supports expecting the NDIA to replenish them, they may be at risk for the rest of their plan period. In such cases, Support Coordinators are responsible for guiding the participant and, if necessary, alerting the NDIA to prevent overspending.
Internal Reviews and Changing Circumstances
Participants can request an internal review if they feel their plan does not adequately support their needs or if their circumstances have changed. However, until such a review or change is processed, the NDIA expects that plan spending remains within the allocated budget. Support Coordinators must ensure the proper documentation is in place before submitting any requests for changes to the plan.
Considerations for Support Coordinators
1. Monitor Budget Proactively
Support Coordinators should begin by creating a clear budget forecast with the participant and conducting regular check-ins to review spending. This approach ensures that funds are used appropriately and that the budget remains on track throughout the plan.
2. Understand Plan Flexibility
Support Coordinators need to understand how NDIS funds can be flexibly allocated across various supports. If spending starts to deviate from the plan, knowing where adjustments can be made helps prevent the need for reassessments and keeps the budget balanced.
3. Explore Capacity-Building Supports
Consider suggesting services or tools, such as assistive technology or memory aids, that can help participants manage their budget and improve their ability to plan and track their spending.
Support Coordinators play a crucial role in helping participants make the most of their NDIS plans while ensuring their long-term support needs are met responsibly. By staying proactive, flexible, and well-informed, they can safeguard participants and maintain compliance with NDIA guidelines.
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