As the NDIS continues to evolve, the role of support coordinators is undergoing significant transformation. Recent regulatory changes have introduced stricter compliance standards and heightened responsibilities, prompting many sole traders to reassess their approach. While the independence of working solo has its appeal, the growing administrative and financial pressures are causing a shift in the industry.

More and more support coordinators are joining larger organisations—and for good reasons. By trading solo work for a collaborative team environment, they’re not just finding stability but also unlocking a host of professional and personal benefits.  

In this blog, we’ll explore why this shift is happening, dive into the advantages of joining a larger organisation, and show how United Foundation can support your next career move.

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Why the Solo Game is Changing

Support coordinators play a vital role in the NDIS ecosystem. You help participants navigate complex systems, access appropriate supports, and achieve their goals. However, recent changes to NDIS rules have introduced challenges that are difficult to tackle alone:

• Mandatory Registration: All support coordinators must now register under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, requiring audits, worker screening, and strict compliance with quality standards.

• Stricter Funding Oversight: Participants can only use their funding for items listed in the updated NDIS-approved catalogue, requiring support coordinators to stay on top of changes.

• Administrative Overload: Increased demands for compliance, reporting, and participant management mean more time spent on paperwork and less on delivering meaningful support.

While these changes aim to improve participant outcomes, they place significant burdens on sole traders. Larger organisations, with their shared resources and systems, provide the support necessary to navigate this evolving landscape.

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The Perks of Teaming Up

Moving from a solo operation to working within a larger organisation is a big change—but one filled with opportunity. Here’s how joining a bigger team can enhance your career and make your work as a support coordinator even more rewarding.

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1. Freedom from Administrative Hassles

As a sole trader, you’re not just a support coordinator; you’re also a bookkeeper, compliance manager, marketer, and IT specialist. Balancing all these roles can be exhausting and often takes time away from your core focus: supporting participants.

In a larger organisation, these responsibilities are handled by dedicated teams. Payroll, invoicing, compliance, and reporting are managed on your behalf, freeing you to concentrate on participant outcomes. Imagine no more late nights sifting through paperwork or chasing down funding reimbursements.

Additionally, many organisations use advanced software to automate processes like participant progress tracking and claim submissions. These tools save you time and reduce the risk of errors, making your day-to-day work smoother and less stressful.

2. A Steady Paycheck and Benefits

As a sole trader, financial stability can be elusive. Your income depends on participant referrals, which can fluctuate from month to month. Joining a larger organisation eliminates this unpredictability, offering a consistent salary and access to valuable benefits.

In addition to a regular paycheck, employees typically receive:

• Paid leave, including annual leave and sick leave, so you can take time off without losing income.

• Superannuation contributions that help you build a secure financial future.

• Job security, particularly in an industry where regulations are constantly changing.

This stability allows you to focus on your work without the constant worry of financial ups and downs.

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3. A Built-In Safety Net

The work of a support coordinator can be emotionally taxing. From managing participant crises to handling the mental load of the job, the challenges can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re working alone.

Joining a larger organisation provides an invaluable safety net. You gain access to:

• Colleagues who understand your challenges and can provide advice, encouragement, or simply a listening ear.

• Peer support groups or team meetings that create a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer confidential counselling and mental health resources.

Having a team to turn to means you’re never alone in navigating the complexities of your role.

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4. Professional Development Opportunities

As a sole trader, your ability to grow and develop professionally can be limited by time and financial constraints. Larger organisations actively invest in their staff, offering opportunities for learning and career advancement.

These might include:

• Workshops and training programs on NDIS updates, mental health support, or innovative service models.

• Specialisation opportunities in areas like complex care or high-intensity supports.

• Pathways to leadership, allowing you to progress into supervisory or management roles.

These opportunities for professional growth not only enhance your skills but also boost your confidence and job satisfaction.

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5. Relief When You Need It

One of the greatest challenges for sole traders is the inability to take a break. Whether it’s due to illness, family emergencies, or even burnout, stepping away from work often means pausing participant services.

In a larger organisation, your cases can be temporarily redistributed among colleagues, ensuring participants remain supported while you take the time you need. This creates a healthier work-life balance and gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your participants are always in good hands.

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6. Compliance Made Simple

NDIS compliance is complex, requiring knowledge of funding rules, audit requirements, and ethical billing practices. For sole traders, staying compliant can feel like a full-time job in itself.

Larger organisations have compliance teams who handle these details for you. From managing audits to ensuring participant plans align with NDIS regulations, these teams make sure your work is always above board.

Regular training sessions also keep you informed of changes in NDIS rules, so you’re always ahead of the curve.

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7. Better Participant Outcomes

When you join a team, you gain access to collective expertise. Working alongside other professionals with a variety of knowledge that you can draw on allows you to deliver more comprehensive support.

For participants, this means better outcomes. With access to a wider range of services and a collaborative approach to care, you’re able to meet their needs more effectively than you could on your own.

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Why United Foundation is the Perfect Fit

At United Foundation, we’re more than just an organisation offering support coordination—we’re a community. Our mission is to empower people living with disabilities to enjoy independent, meaningful lives, and that mission starts with supporting our team members.

When you join United Foundation, you gain:

• A participant-centred approach that aligns with your values.

• Cutting-edge tools and technology that simplify your workload.

• A culture of care, including flexible work arrangements and mental health support.

• Opportunities for growth, from professional training to leadership pathways.

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Ready to Join the Team?

You’ve dedicated your career to improving the lives of participants. Now it’s time to invest in yourself. Joining United Foundation means leaving behind the stress of going it alone and stepping into a role where you’re supported, valued, and empowered to perform at the highest level.

Contact a friendly member of our team today to explore current opportunities and take the next step in your career. Together, we can make a real difference—one participant at a time.

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