If you are exploring accommodation for a family member with disability, the NDIS offers several housing and living options. Understanding the differences early makes the planning process smoother and helps you ask the right questions.
The main NDIS accommodation options
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL is daily support in a shared home. A team of support workers helps your family member with personal care, meals, household tasks, transport, and community access — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. SIL is the support, not the house. It is funded under the Core Supports budget in your NDIS plan.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
SDA is the housing itself. These are purpose-built or modified homes designed for people with significant disability-related needs. SDA homes have design features — wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, reinforced construction, or assistive technology — that standard housing cannot provide. SDA is funded through a separate SDA component in your NDIS plan.
Short-Term Accommodation (STA / Respite)
STA is temporary accommodation for respite (giving you or your family member a break), transition (while longer-term arrangements are being set up), or trial stays. STA is not a permanent living arrangement. It can be a useful step for families who want to try supported living before committing to SIL.
Individual Living Options (ILO)
ILO is support to live in your own home (rented or owned) rather than a shared group home. It is a newer option under the NDIS for participants who want more independence but still need some daily support. The support model is more flexible but typically involves fewer shared resources than SIL.
Which option is right?
The right option depends on your family member’s individual needs, goals, and preferences — and is assessed by the NDIA as part of the planning process. Some questions that help:
- Does your family member need 24/7 support? → SIL is likely relevant
- Do they need specialist housing with physical accessibility features? → SDA may be relevant
- Are you looking for a short-term break or trial? → STA is designed for this
- Do they want to live independently in their own place? → ILO may be worth exploring
A support coordinator can help you navigate these options and determine what to include in a plan reassessment request.
What ASDA offers
Australian SDA Access provides SIL support and SDA housing across homes in Merrylands, Spring Farm, Ruse, and Bonshaw (Ballarat). Our homes are small, home-like houses — not facilities — staffed by dedicated Lifestyle Support Partners.
If you are a family exploring NDIS accommodation options in Western Sydney or regional Victoria, we offer a free 20-minute consultation to help you understand what is available. Contact us on 1300 100 167 or at admin@australiansda.com.au.