Level 2 vs Level 3 Support Coordination: Which One Do You Need?

June 27, 2025

Navigating the NDIS can be overwhelming, especially when faced with choices like Level 2 and Level 3 Support Coordination.

This article breaks down what each support level means, who they’re for, and helps you figure out which one best fits your situation.

Support Coordination Under the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding to Australians with a disability for a range of supports to help achieve their goals.

For many, a crucial part of that support is Support Coordination, a service designed to help you make sense of your plan, connect with the right services, and use your funding wisely.

But not all support coordination is created equal: it comes in three levels, each matched to different needs and complexities.

Here, we’ll focus on the two most comprehensive types:

• Level 2: Support Coordination
• Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination

Looking for NDIS support coordination in Blacktown, or Castle Hill? At Interaction, our expert Support Coordinators work closely with you to understand your goals, simplify your plan, and connect you to the services that matter most. Let us help you feel supported and confident every step of the way.

What Is Level 2 Support Coordination?

Level 2 Support Coordination, also known as “Coordination of Supports,” is designed for people who need more than just basic guidance, but who don’t require the highest level of intervention.

What Does a Level 2 Support Coordinator Do?

• Help you understand and implement your NDIS plan: Breaking down the jargon, helping you set goals, and creating strategies to achieve them.
• Connect you with supports, from providers to community and government resources.
• Budgeting support: Ensuring you’re making the most of your NDIS funding.
• Building your capacity: Teaching you skills to become more independent in managing your future plans and supports.
• Monitor your plan: Checking in that your supports are working for you, making adjustments as needed, and helping prepare for plan reviews.
• Crisis support: Assisting with unexpected issues that may arise during your plan period.

This level is “hands-on,” but the long-term aim is to give you greater confidence and ability to eventually coordinate your own supports, if you choose.

Who Is Level 2 For?

People who:

• Need help navigating their NDIS plan and understanding what’s possible.
• May have multiple providers to coordinate.
• Want to build their skills and independence.
• Face some (but not extreme) challenges or changes in their support needs.

You’re likely to be eligible if major life changes or challenges make managing your plan on your own difficult, or if you don’t have enough informal support (like family or close community connections).

What Is Level 3 (Specialist) Support Coordination?

Level 3, or Specialist Support Coordination, is specifically for people facing complex situations involving multiple challenges or risks.

What Sets Level 3 Apart?

• Specialised expertise: Coordinators usually hold advanced qualifications in allied health, social work, or community services. They’re equipped to handle high-risk and multifaceted environments like homelessness, mental health crises, or court involvement.

• Navigating complex barriers: They work across health, housing, justice, and disability services to keep support stable and safe.

• Crisis management: Coordinators create and implement crisis plans, and step in quickly when things go wrong to ensure safety and continuity of care.

• Advocacy: Actively stand up for the participant in multi-system environments, especially when rights, accommodation or vital services are at stake.

Typical Level 3 Tasks

• Designing a support plan to address high-risk situations.
• Negotiating between service providers (sometimes around the clock).
• Supporting you through legal, housing, or health emergencies.
• Liaising with government and non-government agencies to resolve or advocate for your needs.

Who Needs Level 3 Support Coordination?

• People with highly complex needs or co-occurring issues across multiple areas of life.
• Those experiencing frequent crises or at risk of breakdowns in support (e.g. losing housing, major health events, family breakdown, or involvement with the justice system).
• Participants who previously couldn’t access or stabilise their supports with Level 2 coordination alone.

Eligibility is decided by the NDIA based on your specific circumstances and documented barriers; it’s not simply chosen.

If you’re based in Windsor, or Ryde, Interaction’s NDIS Support Coordination team offers tailored guidance to help you get the most out of your plan. Our local knowledge means we can connect you with the best providers and community activities—so your NDIS journey is easier and more rewarding.

Level 2 vs Level 3

Feature	Level 2: Support Coordination	Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination
Type of needs	Moderate – some complexities, but generally stable	High complexity, crisis-prone, system barriers
Qualifications of the coordinator	Community services, disability, or related experience	Advanced (social work, allied health, etc.)
Focus	Empowerment, skill-building, connecting with support	Resolving high-risk barriers, crisis intervention
Crisis support	Yes, supports and plans for minor crises	Yes, comprehensive response and management
Coordination across sectors	Generally within disability, health, and community	Disability, health, housing, legal, mental health, etc.
Ideal for…	Improving independence, skill-building	Highly complex and unstable circumstances
NDIA approval	More common, flexible inclusion	Strict eligibility, for “exceptional” or complex cases
Reporting requirements	Regular check-ins and reporting	Intensive, outcomes-focused, multi-agency communication

How to Choose the Right Provider

Irrespective of your level, your relationship with your support coordinator should feel collaborative, empowering, and transparent.

Look for providers who:

• Explain things in a way you understand.
• Respect your choices and priorities.
• Keep the focus on your empowerment, not just ticking boxes.
• Have experience with the level of complexity you require—especially for Level 3 needs.

Feel free to request information from providers regarding their experience, qualifications, and approaches before making your decision.

What Should You Do Next?

• Review your latest NDIS plan. Check if Support Coordination is included, and at what level.
• Consider your daily life: Are your needs fairly stable, or are you facing ongoing crises or barriers?
• Speak with your current supports: Let them know if you feel you need more help or a higher level of expertise.
• Prepare supporting documents: If you think your support level should change, collect reports or letters from your health professionals, family members, or other service providers.
• Contact Interaction Services: We specialise in guiding you through every step, from understanding your current plan to supporting you in plan reviews and applications for a change in support levels.

Let’s Make Your NDIS Plan Work for You

Choosing the right support coordination is vital for making the most of your NDIS plan—and for your peace of mind.

Not sure which level you need? Ready for a tailored conversation?

Contact the friendly team at Interaction Services today. We’ll help you understand your options, advocate for your needs, and ensure you have the support to thrive—no matter how simple or complex your circumstances. Learn more about us here.

Reach out for a free consultation. You don’t have to figure it out alone—let’s take the next step together!

Common Questions Answered

Do I Get to Choose My Support Coordination Level?

No—your NDIS plan is tailored to your needs based on your situation and supporting evidence. The NDIA decides your funding level, but you can request a review or provide evidence if you think you need a higher level.

Can My Level Change Over Time?

Yes! Many participants move between levels over the years as their circumstances change. Someone may need Level 3 support during a period of instability, then shift to Level 2 for ongoing management and skill-building.

What If I’m Still Unsure Which Level I Need?

Talk to your current support coordinator, your Local Area Coordinator, or your plan manager—they can help you gather evidence and put your case to the NDIA for the level of support that fits you best.

Can I Have Both Level 2 and Level 3 in My Plan?

Some participants may have both types at different times or even together if their situation is highly variable or transitioning from crisis back to stability. This setup is used only in special cases where there are immediate as well as ongoing needs.