Understanding the Difference Between SDA and SIL
What You Need to Know When navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), it’s important to understand the different types of housing and support services available to people with disabilities.
Two commonly used terms in this space are SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) and SIL (Supported Independent Living).
While they are often used together, SDA and SIL are two distinct services — each playing a unique role in supporting individuals with higher support needs to live as independently as possible. Let’s break down what each one means, how they differ, and how you or your loved one can access these services.
What is SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to the physical building or home designed specifically for people with extreme functional impairments or very high support needs. These homes are built with features that provide better accessibility, safety, and support — such as wide doorways, hoists, wheelchair access, reinforced walls, and emergency call systems.
SDA is funded under the NDIS only for eligible participants, and it’s designed to accommodate people who need housing that enables other support services (like SIL) to be delivered safely and effectively.
SDA Key Features:
- Purpose-built or modified housing
- Funded only for participants with high support needs
- Different design categories: Improved Liveability, Robust, Fully Accessible, and High Physical Support
- Usually shared between 1–3 residents, though single-resident options are increasing
What is SIL (Supported Independent Living)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is not about the building — it’s about the support services provided to help a person live independently in their home. SIL includes day-to day assistance with personal care, cooking, cleaning, medication management, social activities, and other daily tasks.
You can receive SIL in an SDA home, a regular rental property, or even your family home, depending on your situation and goals.
SIL Key Features:
- 24/7 or scheduled support staff, depending on need
- Helps with daily tasks to live more independently
- Can be shared with others or delivered one-on-one
- Funded separately from the home or accommodation
Key Differences Between SDA and SIL
| Aspect | SDA | SIL |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | The physical housing | The support services |
| Purpose | Provides safe, accessible accommodation | Helps with daily living and independence |
| Who is it for? | People with high physical needs | People who need regular support |
| Funding | SDA funding in NDIS plan | SIL funding in NDIS plan |
| Can be used separately? | Yes | Yes |
| Can be used together? | Yes – often combined | Yes – often combined |
How to Access SDA and SIL Through the NDIS
To receive SDA and/or SIL funding, there is a formal process through the NDIS that assesses your functional capacity, support needs, and living goals. Here’s how you can start:
Step 1: Talk to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
They’ll help you understand whether you may be eligible and guide you through the next steps.
Step 2: Functional Assessment
You’ll need assessments from an Occupational Therapist and other allied health professionals to determine the level of support and accommodation you need.
Step 3: Develop a Housing Goal
Include specific housing goals in your NDIS plan, such as living more independently, moving out of the family home, or living with peers.
Step 4: Submit a Home and Living Supports Request
This is a formal request to the NDIS that includes evidence, reports, and a housing exploration report.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
If approved, your NDIS plan will include funding for SIL, SDA, or both. While *SDA and SIL are different, they often work hand in hand to provide people with disability the opportunity to live with *greater independence, dignity, and safety. Understanding the distinction between the two — and how to access them — is an important step in securing the right support for yourself or your loved one.
If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to an NDIS Support Coordinator or a registered provider who specialises in housing and support services. They can walk you through the process and help you explore the right options.
Need help accessing SIL or SDA services?
Our team at 1 Abbira care is here to guide you through the journey. Contact us today for a free consultation and expert advice on your housing and support options.
Visit NDIS Commission for more details