Disability Services Commission Annual Report

2.2 Service Reports — Individual Coordination
2.2.3 Service 3 — Individual Coordination
Individual Coordination relates to the provision of a range of supports and strategies
as part of the statewide Local Area Coordination program, which has been operating
since 1988. Local area coordinators (LACs) contribute to building inclusive
communities through partnership and collaboration with individuals, families and
carers, local organisations and the broader community. The overall aim of the LAC
program is to support people with disabilities to live within welcoming and supportive
communities.
Local Area Coordination is provided through the Commission’s Metropolitan Services
Coordination and Country Services Coordination directorates.
Key Strategies
Providing individuals, families and carers with support and practical assistance
to clarify their goals, strengths and needs.
Providing information and linking people with local resources and support
networks.
Assisting individuals, families and carers to develop practical solutions to meet
their goals and to access the supports and services they need.
Helping to build inclusive communities through partnership and collaboration
with individuals, families and carers, local organisations and the broader
community.
During 2007–2008
8,285 service users were supported in the community through LAC
Coordination.
The average operational cost per service user supported by LAC Coordination
was $2,469.
1,470 service users received LAC Direct Consumer Funding.
The Commission expended $30.1 million or eight per cent of its budget on
Individual Coordination Service. The Individual Coordination Service was
accessed by 40 per cent of service users.
A total of $9.6 million (three per cent of the Commission’s budget) was paid as
LAC Direct Consumer Funding. This represented an average cost of $6,563
per service user.
Disability Services Commission Annual Report 2007–2008 35