Finding a safe, comfortable and supportive living environment is important for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for people living with disabilities. If you are a newcomer to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), you may be wondering about the housing options available to you, such as Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). In this guide, we will discuss the different types of housing available through the NDIS and how you can access them. For the majority, NDIS also won’t cover funding for rent or mortgage payments. This is because housing is not considered a disability support need, but rather a basic living expense. The exception is for people who have an extreme need for specialist housing due to their disability. Fortunately, there are still various housing options available to NDIS participants. It is important to note that eligibility and funding availability varies among states and territories in Australia. This blog aims to explain the process and provide a guide for those searching for SIL housing, SDA housing and mainstream options.
Who Is Eligible For NDIS Funding?
Before learning about the various housing options, it is important to understand who may be eligible for NDIS funding. The NDIS provides support to people living with a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to do everyday activities. Here’s a basic overview of the eligibility requirements:
Age Criteria
NDIS support is available for individuals aged between 9 and 65. Support can extend beyond 65 once accepted into the scheme.
Residency Status
Australian citizens, permanent residents and certain visa holders, such as those with Protected Special Category Visa status, are eligible to apply.
Disability Criteria
Eligibility includes individuals with permanent impairments, covering a range of conditions from intellectual and cognitive to neurological, sensory, physical or psychosocial disabilities.
Early Intervention Requirements
The NDIS also supports individuals needing early intervention to lessen future support needs or to enhance their family’s ability to provide support.
Exploring Your Options: Types Of Disability Housing Available
Let’s explore the housing options available, including private housing and accommodation funded by NDIS. This variety provides options for finding a living situation that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the most common living arrangements for NDIS participants. SIL provides funding and assistance to individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible within shared or individual living arrangements. If you require assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care or household chores, SIL may be a suitable option for you. SIL aims to promote self-reliance, improve quality of life and foster a sense of community inclusion. A NDIS participant’s required level of support will determine the amount of funding they receive for SIL.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
SDA offers specialised housing for individuals with significant support needs or severe functional impairments, accessible to a limited number of NDIS participants. The NDIA assesses eligibility and provides funding to assist with the higher costs of SDA accommodations. While SDA covers housing costs, support services are funded separately under Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangements, allowing for a separation of housing and care providers. Modern SDA homes are designed as smaller, shared environments that aim to complement existing community housing, supporting independence.
Mainstream Housing Options
Mainstream housing options allow individuals with disabilities to choose living arrangements that reflect their preferences. These options are accessible to all Australians. These accommodation choices include:
- Private Rental or House Sharing: Renting a property from a landlord may include living with others, with friends or in a house-sharing arrangement.
- Public and Housing: Government-provided housing with eligibility based on income and assets, often with long waiting lists.
Community Housing: Similar to public housing, managed by not-for-profit organisations, it offers another affordable housing solution. - Living in the Family Home or Own Home: The NDIS supports staying in familiar environments by funding in-home support, community access, respite services and necessary home modifications to enhance accessibility.
NDIS Housing: Tips For Navigating Funding
Here are some practical tips to help you understand the resources available to you and how to utilise them:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the NDIS website and participate in related events for current housing updates.
- Understand Your Plan: Familiarise yourself with the housing supports in your NDIS plan.
- Seek Guidance: Consider advice from NDIS support coordinators or planners.
- Search Actively: Explore suitable housing options and inquire about their features.
- Document Needs: Maintain records of the housing requirements linked to your disability.
- Engage with Others: Connect with community groups or forums for insights on NDIS housing.
Matching Disabilities to Housing: Finding the Perfect Fit
Selecting the right housing option requires careful consideration of the specific needs associated with various disabilities. Key factors to consider include:
- Mobility Needs: Look for accessible features and layouts to accommodate physical disabilities.
- Sensory Requirements: Quiet and well-lit environments can be beneficial for those with sensory sensitivities.
- Support Services: The availability of support services, either on-site or nearby, is important for individuals requiring daily assistance.
- Community Access: Easy access to community resources and transportation options can support social and practical needs.
- Safety Features: Considering safety measures is important for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Get Started With Your NDIS Housing Journey
Finding the right NDIS housing solution can significantly impact your life, offering a supportive environment tailored to your needs. At United Disability, we are here to support you in securing a housing solution, including finding NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL) vacancies, Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) vacancies and other types of accommodation. Our services are designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities, offering the support you need to live a fulfilling life in your chosen home. If you are exploring options for disability housing and accommodations, contact us today.
