NDIS Home and Living Changes in 2026 — What Participants Need to Know

NDIS home and living changes in 2026 — what participants need to know

Several changes to NDIS home and living supports took effect in 2026. If you are exploring SIL, SDA, or other accommodation options, here is what has changed and what it means for you.

SIL provider registration is now mandatory

From 1 July 2026, all SIL providers must be registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Providers who are not yet registered must apply by 1 October 2026 to continue delivering support while their application is assessed.

What this means for you: when choosing a SIL provider, confirm they are registered or have applied. You can verify this at the NDIS Commission’s provider search tool. Australian SDA Access is a registered NDIS provider.

New evidence requirements for SIL requests

The NDIA now requires a completed Home and Living Exploratory Tool and a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) before accepting a SIL request. These documents help the NDIA understand your support needs and determine whether SIL is reasonable and necessary.

What this means for you: work with your support coordinator and an allied health professional (usually an occupational therapist) to prepare these documents before submitting your request. Having thorough, well-documented evidence can speed up the approval process.

A new way of planning

The NDIA is rolling out changes to how plans are created and managed. The goal is to give participants more flexibility and control over their supports, while maintaining the safeguards that protect participants and the scheme.

What this means for you: your support coordinator can help you understand how the planning changes apply to your situation. The core principle remains the same — supports are funded based on what is reasonable and necessary for your individual goals and circumstances.

NDIS Amendment Act 2026

The NDIS Amendment (Integrity and Safeguarding) Act 2026 introduced new provisions around provider registration, compliance, and participant safeguards. Key changes include strengthened registration requirements for SIL providers, new compliance monitoring powers for the NDIS Commission, and additional safeguards for participants receiving high-intensity supports.

What this means for you: these changes are designed to improve the quality and safety of supports. When choosing a provider, look for one that is transparent about their registration, compliance processes, and how they safeguard participants.

Exploring your options?

If you are considering SIL or SDA accommodation in Western Sydney or regional Victoria, the ASDA team can help you understand how these changes affect your situation. Contact us on 1300 100 167 or at admin@australiansda.com.au for a free 20-minute consultation.