In my work within the disability, psychosocial and mental health realm, I have witnessed the profound impact that a Support Coordinator can have on the lives of NDIS Participants. Trust, continuity, and strong relationships are not just catchphrases, they are the cornerstones of the support system ensuring Participants receive the guidance and stability they need. When a Participant loses their Support Coordinator, they don't just lose a service; they lose a trusted ally equipped with the knowledge and skills to assist them in making informed decisions about their services and supports within a complex and confusing system.

Regrettably, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) continues to underfund the NDIS Support Coordination role, threatening to dismantle what is often a critical pillar in a Participants support team. The financial viability of Support Coordination is in jeopardy, leading businesses to shut down their Support Coordination departments. This detrimental trend has resulted in Participants being left without the expert guidance essential for navigating the complexities of the NDIS, one of Australia's most intricate systems.

Support Coordination is not merely a function; it is an indispensable guide through the labyrinth of choices and challenges NDIS Participants face. By undermining this role, the NDIA is marginalising those who most need support, disregarding the real human cost and potentially affecting the well-being of many.

We urgently call on the NDIA to recognise the value of Support Coordination and to ensure that its funding reflects its critical role in the lives of NDIS Participants. Appropriate funding must be allocated to sustain and improve Support Coordination services, guaranteeing that Participants continue to receive trusted and effective support. Without it, a business cannot afford to provide this service.

Join us in urging the NDIA to rethink their stance and reinstate appropriate funding for NDIS Support Coordination. By doing so, they will affirm their commitment to the well-being and empowerment of all NDIS Participants.

Please add your voice to our call for action by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that Support Coordination services remain a vital and dependable resource for those who need it most.