The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has transformed the way support services are delivered in Australia. As the demand for NDIS services continues to grow, so does the need for qualified, experienced, and flexible support coordinators. For those already subcontracting as NDIS Coordinators of Support (CoS), opportunities exist to expand your caseload, join specialist teams, and benefit from ongoing support. This blog delves into what subcontracting as a Support Coordinator entails, the requirements, and the potential rewards for professionals working in this space.
Who Are We Looking For?
We are seeking skilled individuals who are already subcontracting as NDIS Coordinators of Support and are keen to join a national team that offers both autonomy and collaboration. The NDIS can be complex and navigating this landscape requires strong problem-solving abilities, a keen sense of organisation, and a firm grasp of the administrative tasks involved. The ideal candidates must possess:
Time and Caseload Management: As a subcontractor, managing your own time is essential. You’ll need to handle your caseload independently, ensuring that participants receive the best possible service while meeting the administrative demands of the role.
Problem-Solving Skills: The NDIS environment can be challenging. You will often face hurdles such as limited service providers in certain regions, or challenges in accessing the most appropriate support for participants. Therefore, a strong ability to solve problems and think on your feet is crucial.
Administrative Skills: Compliance is key under the NDIS. The role of a Support Coordinator requires meticulous file notes, progress reports, and case documentation. This ensures that participant needs are met and that NDIS guidelines are followed. Strong administration skills and attention to detail are therefore mandatory.
The Expectations: Transfer of Participants and Growth Support
If you are not already NDIS registered as a provider, it’s expected that you transfer your current participant caseload into our invoicing system for payment. In return, we’ll provide you with tools to help grow your caseload, including access to our marketing channels and branding. This support will help you expand your reach as an independent contractor.
In addition, we offer ongoing support and technical help to deal with complex issues that may arise in your role as a Coordinator of Support. Whether it’s troubleshooting NDIS compliance questions or addressing participant needs, you’ll have access to expert advice to help streamline your processes.
Minimum Hours Per Week
Subcontractors are required to provide a minimum of 15 hours per week of CoS services. This ensures consistent participant support and allows for a manageable caseload that enables you to deliver high-quality services while maintaining work-life balance.
Independent Contractor Requirements
To work as a subcontractor under the NDIS, there are several legal and logistical requirements you’ll need to meet. These include:
Australian Business Number (ABN): All subcontractors must hold a valid ABN, which you can register for online via business.gov.au.
Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance: You will need both public liability and professional indemnity insurance to protect yourself and your business. These policies cover you against claims for damages arising from your services, offering peace of mind. Annual premiums are approximately $350 for a turnover of $50,000 per year. Instant quotes can be obtained through MyCareSpace.
Personal Equipment: As an independent contractor, you will need your own laptop, reliable internet connection, and mobile phone to effectively manage your work. Additionally, having your own vehicle is essential, as you may need to travel to meet with participants or providers.
NDIS Worker Screening Check: This is a mandatory requirement for anyone working in a risk-assessed role under the NDIS. It checks your background to ensure you are suitable to work with people with disabilities. You can apply for this check via the NSW government website.
Working With Children Check: If your work involves children, a valid Working With Children Check for your state is necessary. Each state has its own process for applying for and renewing this check, so it’s important to ensure yours is up-to-date.
Where Do the Participants Come From?
In many cases, subcontractors bring their own participants with them. This allows you to maintain existing relationships and continue delivering the quality of service your participants are used to. However, to help grow your caseload, we market your services to participants and providers in your local area. We’ll also support you in following up on leads, and guide you through the process of onboarding new participants into the NDIS system.
You will need to prepare and submit the necessary paperwork for any new participant who chooses to use our services. This includes ensuring that all documents are compliant with NDIS standards and that participant needs are clearly identified and addressed.
How Much Can I Make?
As a subcontractor providing support coordination services, you can expect to earn between $60 and $80 per hour, depending on your level of experience and the region in which you operate. Remote areas may offer higher rates due to the increased demand for services in those regions.
How Often Am I Paid?
We operate on a weekly payment cycle. You will be paid in arrears for the hours you have billed and which have been paid by providers during the preceding week. This ensures timely and predictable payments for your services, allowing you to manage your cash flow effectively.
The Next Steps
If you are interested in joining our team of subcontractors, the next step is to gather the required documents. These include:
- A copy of your ABN registration, which you can obtain through business.gov.au.
- Proof of public liability and professional indemnity insurance coverage, available through MyCareSpace.
- A current NDIS Worker Screening Check. This can be applied for via the NSW government website.
- A current Working With Children check if you work with children.
Conclusion
Subcontracting as an NDIS Support Coordinator provides the flexibility to manage your own time and caseload, while still being part of a larger network that offers support, marketing, and technical assistance. With the ongoing demand for NDIS services, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within this sector.
By joining our team, you will benefit from a strong support system that helps you navigate the complexities of the NDIS, build your caseload, and develop your skills as a coordinator of support. Whether you are already subcontracting or looking to expand your business, we can provide the tools and resources to help you succeed.
