Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be overwhelming—especially when trying to understand housing options for yourself or a loved one. Two key supports that often cause confusion are Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL). While both aim to improve the quality of life for Australians with disabilities, they serve very different purposes.
At Care I Wish, our vision is to provide high-quality holistic, ethical, and person-centred care that each individual wishes and deserves. Our mission is to take each participant on an individualised journey, ensuring every step is tailored to their needs. This guide will help you understand the differences between SDA and SIL, how they can work together, and which might be the right fit for your situation—so you can make confident, informed decisions.
What is SIL (Supported Independent Living)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support that helps people with disabilities live as independently as possible while still receiving the daily assistance they need.
Unlike housing itself, SIL funding covers support services—not the property—such as:
- Personal care and hygiene support
- Meal preparation and nutrition planning
- Medication management
- Behaviour support
- Developing social and daily living skills
- Supervision for safety
- Community participation assistance
SIL is ideal for participants who require 24/7 support or regular supervision in a shared living arrangement.
For example, a participant like Serena, who enjoys reconnecting with her community, exploring new activities, and developing daily living skills, may share a home with others while receiving personalised support.
Serena’s journey reflects the independence and confidence that can grow in a Supported Independent Living home in Melbourne.
At Care I Wish, we focus on creating safe, supportive, and empowering environments guided by our WISH values:
- Winsome – Providing warmth and a welcoming spirit
- Independence – Empowering participants to make their own choices
- Safety – Prioritising wellbeing in every aspect of care
- Honesty – Building trust through transparency
Through SIL, we help residents live confidently and comfortably, knowing they have the support they need while maintaining independence.
Also Read: How to Transition into a SIL Home Complete NDIS Guide for Australian Families
What is SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is an NDIS-funded housing option for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.
Its purpose is to provide specially designed or modified properties that support safe and independent living while meeting complex mobility, sensory, or behavioural requirements.
The Four SDA design categories are:
- Improved Liveability (IL) – Enhanced physical access and sensory features
- Fully Accessible (FA) – Maximum accessibility, including wheelchair access
- Robust – Built for durability and safety for those with behaviours of concern
- High Physical Support (HPS) – Complex assistive technology and high-level physical support features
SDA funding covers the property or building—not daily support services. At Care I Wish, we connect participants with SDA homes tailored to their needs, ensuring comfort, safety, and dignity.
Key Differences Between SIL and SDA
While both Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) are part of the NDIS housing framework, they serve very different purposes. Understanding these differences helps families and participants choose the right combination of supports for their needs.
SIL focuses on support services—helping participants with daily living, personal care, and skill development—whereas SDA provides the physical home designed or modified for people with significant disabilities. In many cases, a participant may receive both: SDA for the property and SIL for the ongoing support within that property.
At Care I Wish, we guide you through the SIL and SDA process to ensure your loved one has both the right home and the right support.
| Feature | SIL (Supported Independent Living) | SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) |
| Primary Purpose | Provides daily support services | Provides specialised housing |
| Funding Covers | Staff support, personal care, daily tasks | Property design/build modifications |
| Who It’s For | People needing regular or 24/7 assistance | People with extreme functional impairment/high needs |
| Example | Shared home with staff assisting daily activities | Fully accessible or robust home design |
Who is Eligible for SIL or SDA?
Eligibility depends on your functional capacity, daily support needs, and living goals:
- SIL – For those needing regular or 24/7 support with personal care, household tasks, or upervision to live safely.
- SDA – For those with extreme functional impairment or high support needs requiring specialised housing.
Our team works closely with participants, families, and the NDIS to assess eligibility accurately and connect you with the right housing and care solutions.
SIL vs SDA: Which is Right for You?
- Choose SIL if you require personal care, daily assistance, and ongoing supervision.
- Choose SDA if you need a specially built or modified home to meet high support needs.
- Choose Both if you need both a purpose-built home and daily support services.
The right choice depends on your unique situation—and Care I Wish is here to guide you every step of the way.
How Care I Wish Supports Your NDIS Housing Journey
As a registered NDIS provider, Care I Wish offers both SDA and SIL accommodation across multiple states. We provide:
- Quick Connection: Initial consultation within 24 hours to understand your goals, lifestyle, and support needs.
- Provide Quality SDA & SIL Homes: Offer safe, comfortable, and accessible homes across Victoria and South Australia.
- Personalised Matching: House tours and housemate introductions based on your preferences.
- Support Team: Tailored team creation, training, and orientation before move-in.
- Smooth Transition: Fast move-in process with a warm welcome celebration.
- Innovative Options: Creative living solutions, including community-focused housing.
Our vision, mission, and WISH values drive everything we do—ensuring you feel supported, respected, and empowered.
Contact us today or visit careiwish.com.au to explore available SDA and SIL vacancies and take the next step toward the home you deserve.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between SIL and SDA is key to making the right housing choice. SIL delivers the daily support you need, while SDA provides a purpose-built home designed for your safety and independence. Together, they can create the ideal living arrangement for your needs.At Care I Wish, we’re ready to help you find that perfect balance.
FAQs
Yes, you can access SIL without SDA. Care I Wish can arrange the right NDIS-funded support within a standard home.
You’ll need an NDIS plan review or initial meeting with evidence from health professionals. Care I Wish helps gather reports and manage the process.
Yes. Care I Wish can coordinate both, ensuring you have the right home and support team.
Yes, if you only need specialised housing. Care I Wish can help secure SDA funding for a home that meets your accessibility needs.
