How to Change Your Support Coordinator in Melbourne: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing your NDIS Support Coordinator can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re looking for more personalised care, better communication, or a team with deeper experience in complex or psychosocial needs, you have the right to choose a coordinator who’s the best fit for you.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about switching Support Coordinators in Melbourne, including the why, when, and how.

Why Change Support Coordinators?

There are many reasons NDIS participants may want to change their Support Coordinator. Some of the most common include:

• Lack of clear communication or guidance
• Delayed response times or difficulty contacting your coordinator
• Not feeling heard or supported in decision-making
• Looking for someone with more experience in complex or psychosocial disabilities
• Wanting a local Melbourne-based team that understands the system
• Needing a better personal fit or a fresh approach
  

You deserve a Support Coordinator who listens, understands your goals, and helps you maximise the benefits of your NDIS plan.

Are you unsure whether to switch?

Read our guide: What to Do If Your Support Coordinator Isn’t Meeting Your Needs, which outlines the red flags and your rights as an NDIS participant.

Steps to Change Support Coordination Services in Melbourne

Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you make the switch with confidence and ease.

1. Discuss Your Concerns First

If you feel safe doing so, try having an open and respectful conversation with your current Support Coordinator. Challenges can be addressed by improving communication and clarity around expectations.

However, if your concerns continue or if the relationship isn’t working, it’s okay to take the next step.

2. Review Your Service Agreement

Check the Service Agreement you signed with your current provider. It will outline:

• The required notice period (often 2–4 weeks)
• How to formally end the agreement
• Any documentation or handover process needed
  

Following this process ensures a smooth and compliant transition that meets NDIS expectations.

3. Search for a New Support Coordinator

Start looking for a new provider that better aligns with your needs. When choosing a new Support Coordinator in Melbourne, look for:

• Experience with your specific disability or support needs
• Strong communication and availability
• Positive client reviews
• A personalised, respectful approach
• Local knowledge of Melbourne-based services and supports
  

Hand in Hand Support Coordination specialises in working with participants who have complex needs and psychosocial support needs in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

4. End the Current Service Booking

Once you’ve selected a new provider, your current Support Coordinator (or you) will need to end the existing Support Coordination service booking in the NDIS portal.

Make sure:

• A precise end date is set
• The new service booking does not overlap incorrectly
• Your new provider has confirmation that funds are available

This step ensures there is no confusion or delay in starting with your new coordinator.

5. Inform the New Support Coordinator

Your new Support Coordinator will likely ask for:

• A signed Service Agreement
• A copy of your current NDIS Plan
• Any recent reports or documents to help them understand your needs and goals
  

At this stage, it’s helpful to share as much context as you feel comfortable with. The more information they have, the better they can support you from day one.

6. Ensure a Proper Handover

Where possible, your current Support Coordinator should provide a short handover summary to the new provider. This can include:

• Current supports are in place
• Any barriers you’ve faced
• Notes on upcoming reviews or assessments
• Information about any goals or strategies already in progress

This helps reduce disruption and ensures continuity of support.

If a handover document isn’t available, don’t worry — your new coordinator can work with you to build a clear understanding.

7. Continue Using Your Existing NDIS Funding

You don’t need to wait for a new NDIS plan to begin working with your new Support Coordinator. Your current Support Coordination funding can be reallocated to your new provider immediately, provided the service booking is set up correctly in the NDIS portal.

Ensure that funding is available and that your new provider has all the necessary information to initiate the process.

Final Thoughts: You Have the Right to Choose

Switching Support Coordinators is a personal decision and one that should reflect your right to choose the supports that work best for you.

If your current provider isn’t meeting your needs, or if you simply feel ready for a change, you are entitled to seek a better fit. What matters most is that you feel heard, supported, and confident in your plan.

At Hand in Hand Support Coordination in Melbourne, we’re here to make that transition simple and stress-free. From your first conversation with us, you’ll be met with compassion, clarity, and expert support designed around your goals.