Types of Independent Living Options available for NDIS participants

The purpose of NDIS living options is to give people with disabilities the opportunity to modify their living arrangements by supporting them with making decisions about where and how they live. Participants have access to assisted living arrangements and can select from a variety of ILO alternatives, including shared and independent living options. The most common NDIS living options are listed below.

1. Supported Independent Living (SIL)  

One common living support option in ILO arrangements is Supported Independent Living (SIL). Its main goal is to assist participants in becoming more independent while receiving the greatest possible support services to enable them to go about their everyday lives. 

SIL is for those who want to live with other participants in a shared housing arrangement while receiving help with cooking, budgeting, or engaging in social and recreational activities. This shared arrangement allows for a structured environment, providing a supported independent living under NDIS while they work toward their personal and professional goals.

2. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is another NDIS living option for participants with high or complex support needs. It provides participants with personalized homes to tailored support. While SDA funding covers some costs, participants are also responsible for rent and utilities. This living arrangement provides a variety of accommodations ranging from small apartments to shared homes, and they are typically equipped with modifications to cater to participants with extreme functional impairments.

3. Individual Living Option (ILO)

A very flexible support plan is the Individual Living Option (ILO) gives participants the freedom to choose how they want to live. Residents have the option of living alone, with a roommate, with family, friends, or with a host. The ILO can be set up to include both official (NDIS-funded) and informal (friends, family, and networks) support, allowing participants the freedom to choose a living arrangement that best suits their requirements and preferences.

4. Short-Term Accommodation (STA)

An NDIS living option for participants in need of a temporary living arrangement is Short-Term Accommodation (STA). STA provides a short-term stay option that includes meals, activities, and personal care for individuals staying alone or with other participants. It’s perfect for people who want to keep their independence while looking for a temporary solution.

5. Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA)

Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) is for participants who need a home to stay in while waiting for their permanent residence to be ready. MTA is typically funded for 90 days and helps during housing modifications or other delays. Unlike other ILO arrangements, STA, MTA does not cover day-to-day costs such as food or electricity, and the primary focus is on providing participants with a safe and stable environment during their transition period.

6. Long-Term Accommodation

Long-term accommodation is an NDIS living option for participants who require housing for a stated period usually a year or more. This living arrangement is for those who need a more permanent solution to their living condition. Providers of long-term housing for NDIS participants are familiar with the accessibility needs of individuals with disabilities. If long-term accommodation isn’t immediately available, participants can consider medium-term arrangements as an interim solution.

Conclusion

NDIS Living Options provide participants with the flexibility to choose their living arrangements and supported independent living under NDIS. Choosing between shared vs independent living options allows participants to tailor their care and living environment to suit their needs, promoting independence and personal growth. The NDIS offers a range of options to ensure participants receive the support they require.