Finding the right home and support is one of the most important decisions for people with disability and their families. Under the NDIS, two terms often come up: Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
At Sunnyfield, we want to make the difference clear so you can make the choice that’s right for you.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support service that assists with daily tasks, facilitating personal autonomy for participants with higher support needs. Classified under the Assistance with Daily Life budget, SIL encompasses the provision of professional support workers who assist with supervision or the performance of everyday activities in a shared or individual living environment.
This type of support helps people with disability to live more independently. Support includes:
- Personal care assistance
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Cleaning and household chores
- Building everyday living skills
- Overnight support (if needed)SIL housing is accessible to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants that have SIL funding in their NDIS plan.
- Nurture personal growth in a safe and supportive environment
- Build independence at home
- Foster meaningful relationships with housemates
- Develop local community connections
What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a specialised housing category under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Act 2013 designed for participants with complex needs.
Technically, SDA refers to the physical home itself rather than the support staff. These buildings include specialised accessibility features or complex design requirements that make it easier for people with high support needs to live safely and independently. These are innovative, purpose-built homes that are designed for people with complex support needs.
SDA housing is accessible to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants who have SDA funding in their NDIS plan.
SIL vs SDA: The Key Difference
The primary difference between SIL and SDA lies in the distinction between person-to-person care and the physical environment. SIL refers to the support services provided by staff to help you manage daily life, whereas SDA refers to the specialised building or home itself.
The key thing to remember is you can have both: living in an SDA home while receiving SIL supports. For many participants, the most effective outcome is achieved by combining these two funding types, which allows for a high level of care within a dwelling specifically modified for their needs. While they are separate components of an NDIS plan, they are designed to work in tandem to provide a holistic living solution. This integrated approach ensures that your housing environment and daily assistance are perfectly aligned to support your goals.
Understanding how these supports complement each other allows you to access comprehensive disability accommodation services that prioritise both safety and independence.
Difference Between SIL and SDA: A Quick Summary Table
| SIL | SDA |
| Provides support staff and services | Provides the physical home |
| Helps you with day-to-day life | Makes the home safe and accessible |
| Does not fund rent or housing | Does not fund daily support |
Can You Have SIL Without SDA (and Vice Versa)?
One of the most common questions regarding NDIS housing is whether these two supports must always be packaged together. The short answer is no; they are separate funding line items and can be used independently, depending on your specific goals and living situation. Understanding the difference between SIL and SDA is crucial here, as it enables you to advocate for the specific funding that best meets your needs.
Only a small percentage, approximately 6%, meet the high support criteria for SDA. This means you can absolutely have SIL without SDA. For example, you might live in a standard private rental or a family home while receiving Supported Independent Living to help with cooking, cleaning and personal care. Conversely, while rarer, it is possible to have SDA without SIL if a participant lives in a specialised home but receives a different model of support, such as Individualised Living Options (ILO).
Who Qualifies for SDA?
SDA is only for a small group of NDIS participants with the highest needs. To qualify, you must:
- Be an NDIS participant.
- Have very high support needs
- Show that SDA is the most suitable, “reasonable and necessary” way to support your goals.
- Provide professional evidence, usually through a housing assessment from an Occupational Therapist.
- There are four SDA design categories: Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust and High Physical Support. Your eligibility will depend on your assessed needs.
How to Apply
- Talk to your Support Coordinator or NDIS Planner about your housing goals.
- Get a housing assessment from an Occupational Therapist.
- Submit evidence to the NDIA for approval.
- Explore vacancies in SDA-enrolled homes.
Why It Matters
Having the right mix of SIL and SDA can make daily life safer, easier and more fulfilling. It means more independence, peace of mind for families and opportunities to connect with community.
How Sunnyfield Can Help
Sunnyfield offers Shared Living homes across NSW, including homes that meet SDA design standards. We’ll work alongside you to explore options and find the right home for your goals.
Call us on 1300 588 688
Visit our Accommodation page to see current vacancies
At Sunnyfield, our vision is simple: to provide the best place for people with intellectual disability to live, learn, work and belong.
