SIL vs SDA vs ILO: what's the difference?
SIL (supported independent living) pays for support workers who help or supervise you at home, 24 hours a day. SDA (specialist disability accommodation) is the home itself, built for people with very high support needs. ILO (individualised living options) is a flexible way to design your own home and living supports, such as living with a host or a housemate.
Last updated: October 2026. Facts checked against ndis.gov.au on 12 October 2026.
Comparison table
| SIL | SDA | ILO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Funding for support workers to help or supervise you 24/7 | Housing designed for extreme functional impairment or very high support needs | Funding to design and set up how and where you live, and who supports you |
| What it pays for | Help with personal care, meals, household tasks and building skills | The SDA provider (the home). Doesn't cover supports in the home | Primary supports (a host or housemate), supplementary supports, and monitoring |
| Who it suits | People who need someone with them 24 hours a day, with help for at least 8 of those hours | People who meet the SDA funding criteria | People 18+ (or 17 and planning ahead) who need support at home for at least 6 hours a day |
| Who it's paid to | Your SIL provider | Your SDA provider | Your ILO provider(s) |
| Rent and bills | You pay them | You pay a reasonable rent contribution plus bills | You pay them |
| Provider registration | Must be registered (or applied before 1 Oct 2026) | Provider must be registered and the home enrolled with the NDIA | Check with the NDIA for your situation |
| Service agreement | Recommended | Required in writing | Recommended |
Sources: What is SIL, What is SDA, What are ILO (ndis.gov.au).
Can you have more than one?
Yes. Many people living in SDA also have SIL. The NDIA puts it simply: "SDA funding pays the SDA provider, SIL funding pays for your carers and you pay the rent and bills."
The SIL registration change
From 1 October 2026, SIL can only be delivered by providers that are registered, or that applied to register before 1 October 2026. Your plan and funding won't change. If you choose and manage your own support workers yourself, it isn't SIL and this rule doesn't apply (NDIA news, 9 June 2026). Check any provider on the NDIS Commission provider register.
The four SDA design categories
| Category | Built for |
|---|---|
| Improved liveability | Sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairment |
| Fully accessible | High physical access needs, e.g. wheelchair users |
| Robust | Safety and durability, e.g. people with complex behaviours |
| High physical support | Very high support needs, e.g. ceiling hoists, backup power |
Frequently asked questions
Is SDA the same as SIL?
No. SDA is the building. SIL is the support workers. SDA doesn't include personal care or SIL.
Can SIL pay my rent?
No. SIL can't be used for rent or day-to-day costs like groceries.
Do I need SDA to get SIL?
No. SIL can be delivered in other homes, such as a rental or shared house. SDA is only for people who meet its funding criteria.
How long does setting up an ILO take?
Stage 1, exploring and designing your ILO, usually takes 30 to 100 hours of funded work with a provider. Then you set it up in stage 2.
Can I live alone with SIL?
SIL may be funded one-to-one only in limited situations. The NDIA says other home and living supports may suit better if you live alone.
How do I ask for SIL, SDA or ILO in my plan?
Talk to your my NDIS contact or planner. The NDIA has a guide on how to ask for home and living supports.
Does my SIL provider need to be recorded as a "my provider"?
Yes, if your funding is NDIA-managed or plan-managed. The same applies to SDA.
Looking for supported independent living?
Send us a referral, or ask your support coordinator to. We call you back the same day.