Support Coordinator ABN Setup: Getting Your ABN and Starting as a Sole Trader
Support coordinator ABN setup, step by step: how to get your ABN free, register as a sole trader, handle GST-free NDIS income, and invoice compliantly.
Do you need an ABN to work as a support coordinator?
Sole trader vs company: what most coordinators choose first
How to apply for your ABN (step by step)
Registering a business name (only if you trade under one)
GST and NDIS income: the point coordinators get wrong
Tax obligations as a sole trader
Bank account, invoicing and the 90-day claim window
The support coordination price limits you invoice against
ABN setup vs NDIS registration: don't confuse the two
Insurance and the rest of your day-one setup
Common mistakes and edge cases
Frequently asked questions
Is an ABN free for a support coordinator?
Yes. Applying for an ABN through the Australian Business Register (abr.gov.au) is free. If a website charges you, it is a third-party service filling in the government form on your behalf — you can do it yourself in about 20 to 30 minutes.
Do support coordinators charge GST?
Generally no. Support coordination delivered to an NDIS participant under their plan is GST-free, so you do not add GST to the price limit when invoicing. However, GST-free income still counts toward the $75,000 GST registration threshold, so if your turnover exceeds that you may still need to register for GST — confirm with the ATO or a registered tax agent.
Should I set up as a sole trader or a company?
Most coordinators start as a sole trader because it is free, fast and simple, with income taxed on your personal return. A company gives limited liability but costs more and adds compliance. Many begin as a sole trader and switch to a company once caseload, revenue and risk grow. See the dedicated structure article in this hub.
Do I need to register with the NDIS Commission if I have an ABN?
Not necessarily. An ABN makes you a business, not a registered NDIS provider. Standard support coordination registration was paused in December 2025, so many coordinators operate unregistered for plan-managed and self-managed participants. Specialist Support Coordination (Level 3), however, still requires registration.
When do I have to submit my NDIS claims?
From 1 December 2026 the claim window shortens from two years to 90 days from when you deliver the support. Verify the commencement against health.gov.au and the current PAPL, and invoice on a regular fortnightly cycle so no claim ages out and becomes unbillable.