Introduction

Support Coordinators play a pivotal role in guiding participants through the NDIS system, ensuring services align with individual goals and needs. With the Australian Government’s $15.6 million investment in the new Disability Supports Quality and Safeguarding Framework—first announced in 2024 and continuing its rollout in 2025—the sector is undergoing a major transformation. Replacing the 2016 framework, this updated system strengthens safeguards, expands coverage beyond NDIS participants, and raises quality standards across the disability sector. For Support Coordinators, these changes bring both new responsibilities and significant opportunities.

What Is the New Disability Supports Framework?

The Disability Supports Quality and Safeguarding Framework, rolling out progressively from 2024 through 2026, creates a safer, more consistent support system for all people with disability in Australia. Unlike its predecessor, which focused only on NDIS participants, the new framework extends protections to all disability support services—including foundational supports expected by mid-2025. Key priorities include:

• Enhanced Safety Standards – Stronger measures to protect against harm, exploitation, and neglect.
• Quality Assurance – Consistent, higher benchmarks for service delivery across providers.
• Broader Reach – Covering NDIS and non-NDIS supports, addressing the gap for the majority of Australians with disability not currently on the NDIS.

Why This Matters for Support Coordinators

As the link between participants and providers, Support Coordinators will see direct impacts from these reforms:

1. Expanded Service Options – Foundational supports and community-based services will require new knowledge and navigation skills.
2. Stricter Provider Oversight – Coordinators must carefully assess providers for compliance and quality.
3. Greater Accountability – Ensuring participant plans align with updated standards and safeguarding measures.

Key Changes to Understand

Support Coordinators should focus on these critical updates:

• Unified Standards – Consistent quality benchmarks for both NDIS and non-NDIS providers.
• Strengthened Safeguarding – New protocols against abuse and neglect, with participant rights education.
• Transition to Foundational Supports – Mid-2025 rollout of supports for those ineligible for NDIS plans.
• Workforce Training – Coordinators should prioritise providers with qualified, trained staff.

Practical Steps for Support Coordinators

To adapt successfully, Support Coordinators can:

1. Stay Updated – Regularly check NDIS.gov.au and DSS.gov.au for rollout news and compliance guides.
2. Upskill – Join webinars, NDIA sessions, and peer forums for insights on applying the framework.
3. Vet Providers Thoroughly – Use the NDIS Commission’s register and require documented training compliance.
4. Empower Participants – Provide clear resources on participant rights and safeguarding measures.
5. Build Networks – Share learnings with other coordinators and provider networks.

Case Study: Supporting a Participant Through the New Framework

Consider Sarah, a participant with psychosocial disability who previously relied on unregistered providers for daily supports. With the new framework, her Support Coordinator must now ensure these providers meet stricter quality benchmarks. By carefully vetting providers, introducing Sarah to foundational supports, and educating her on her rights under the framework, the coordinator not only ensures compliance but also strengthens Sarah’s confidence in the system. This practical example shows how the framework directly impacts participant outcomes.

Challenges and Opportunities

The framework’s expansion presents both challenges and opportunities. Navigating additional service options and stricter oversight can strain workloads, yet it also creates avenues for improved participant outcomes and stronger professional trust. By embracing these reforms, Support Coordinators position themselves as leaders in a safer, more effective disability support environment.

How to Prepare for the Transition

Key steps include:

• Reviewing Participant Plans – Ensure they reflect the new quality benchmarks.
• Collaborating with Stakeholders – Engage with the NDIS Commission and advocacy groups for guidance.
• Leveraging Technology – Use digital tools to track compliance and streamline support delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does this mean for unregistered providers?

Unregistered providers will now face higher expectations under unified standards. Support Coordinators should verify they meet safeguarding and training requirements before engagement.

Q2: How are foundational supports different from NDIS supports?

Foundational supports are designed for people with disability who are not eligible for an NDIS plan. They include services such as community inclusion, basic skill-building, and family support, broadening access beyond traditional NDIS-funded programs.

Q3: Do participants need to change their current providers?

Not necessarily. However, Support Coordinators must ensure current providers align with the updated framework standards. Providers unwilling to adapt may need to be replaced to safeguard participant wellbeing.

Q4: How can Support Coordinators stay informed?

The NDIA and DSS websites, as well as updates from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, will provide ongoing resources. Coordinators should also join sector networks and training sessions.

Conclusion

The 2025 Disability Supports Quality and Safeguarding Framework represents a landmark shift for disability services in Australia. For Support Coordinators, this is a call to adapt, lead, and champion high-quality, safe supports for participants. By staying informed and proactive, you can strengthen participant trust and ensure smooth transitions into this new era of disability support.

Call to Action : How are you preparing for the framework’s rollout? Share your tips with peers or access NDIA training resources today.

About Careable

Careable is a registered NDIS provider specialising in supporting participants with psychosocial disabilities. With services spanning Supported Independent Living (SIL), in-home support, community access, and hospital-to-home transitions, our mission is guided by compassion, accountability, respect, and empowerment (C.A.R.E). We bring years of experience in delivering high-quality, participant-centred services across Melbourne.