Not Sure Where to Start with the NDIS? Your Local Area Coordinator Can Help
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During a recent live webinar, we had the pleasure of catching up with Cody Jones, a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) with Social Futures, to talk about one of the most important roles in the NDIS journey. Whether you're just starting out or have been with the NDIS for years, understanding what an LAC does can make a big difference in how you navigate your supports.
Cody shared some fantastic insights into what LACs do, how they support participants, and what to expect when working with one. Here’s a simple breakdown of what we learned.
Your First Point of Contact
Cody explained that LACs are often the first people you’ll meet when you start your NDIS journey. They’re based in your local community and are there to help you understand the NDIS, apply for it, and figure out what supports might be available to you—even if you’re not eligible for the NDIS.
“We support people through the access application process… and explore what options are available outside of NDIS too,” Cody said.
Helping You Apply and Understand the NDIS
LACs can help you:
Understand what evidence you need for your application
Link you with services like GPs or specialists to get that evidence
Explain what the NDIS is asking for in plain language
If your application isn’t successful the first time, they can help you figure out what’s missing and try again.
Support After You’re Approved
Once you’re in the NDIS, LACs don’t disappear. They can:
Help with plan reassessments (formerly called reviews)
Offer implementation meetings to explain what’s in your plan
Suggest local services (like OTs or support coordinators), though they can’t recommend specific providers
“We’re that impartial person who goes, ‘Here’s a list of known occupational therapists,’” Cody explained.
Ongoing Support - If You Want It
Some people want regular check-ins, others are happy to manage things on their own. LACs can adapt to what you need.
“For some participants, they don’t want an implementation meeting… for other people, they need a bit more hands-on [support],” Cody said.
They can also help if your plan isn’t working anymore—whether that means applying for a review or helping you use your funding more flexibly.
Not Everyone Has an LAC
Depending on where you live, you might not have a local LAC. In more remote areas, the NDIA has its own team that steps in. But you can always check who your local partner is by visiting the NDIS website.
“You can type in your postcode and it will tell you where your nearest partner organisation is,” Cody shared.
A Busy But Rewarding Role
Cody also gave us a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for an LAC—and spoiler alert: there’s no such thing as a “typical” day!
“It can be everything from helping someone in crisis to answering questions like, ‘What’s in my plan?’ or ‘Can I get a new OT?’”
LACs are there to guide, support, and empower you—whether you’re just starting out or have been with the NDIS for years. They’re not the only support available, but they’re often the first and most consistent one.
Have questions about your LAC or want to share your experience?
