Does the NDIS Fund Housing Assistance? A Clear Guide!
- Shaun Chaudhry
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Summary:
The NDIS does not fund rent or mortgages, but it may help with housing-related support needs.
Funding may be available for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL).
The NDIS may also help participants live more independently by funding home modifications or assistive technology.
Plan managers can help you make the most of your plan and understand housing supports.
Understanding Housing Support Through the NDIS
For people living with a disability, safe and appropriate housing is a critical part of leading an independent and supported life. While the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) does not directly fund rent or home ownership costs, it does offer support for housing where the disability creates a specific need.
At Proactive Plan Managers, we often receive questions like: “Can the NDIS help me with housing?” Let’s break it down for you.
What Housing Support Does the NDIS Provide?
1. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
SDA is funding for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. It’s designed to cover the cost of housing that enables participants to receive the support they need.
SDA homes are purpose-built or modified to allow for mobility equipment, support staff, and complex care.
NDIS funding for SDA is paid to the provider, not directly to participants.
Not all participants are eligible—this is only for those with very high housing needs.
2. Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL is support provided in the home to help participants with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, or personal care.
SIL funding is for support workers, not housing.
It’s often provided in shared homes or group settings.
Participants can use this support in combination with other housing options, such as private rentals.
3. Individualised Living Options (ILO)
ILO provides a tailored living arrangement based on the participant's needs and preferences.
You can live with a host family, a housemate, or on your own with flexible supports.
It’s designed to be less structured than SIL and more focused on individual choice.
4. Home Modifications
If you own or rent a home and need changes to make it more accessible, the NDIS may fund modifications such as:
Ramps
Handrails
Bathroom alterations
Widened doorways
5. Assistive Technology
The NDIS can fund technology that supports independent living, such as:
Smart home devices (voice-controlled lights, etc.)
Communication aids
Medical alert systems
What Doesn’t the NDIS Cover?
Rent or mortgage payments
Bond or moving costs
Basic household furniture (unless the item is disability-related)
Daily living costs unrelated to a participant’s disability
How Can a Plan Manager Help?
At Proactive Plan Managers, we help you understand what’s included in your plan and assist you in:
Connecting with registered housing providers
Making claims for SDA or SIL supports
Managing your budget for home modifications
Ensuring you’re using your NDIS funding effectively and compliantly
Conclusion
While the NDIS doesn’t provide direct financial support for housing costs like rent, it does support disability-related housing needs that help you live more independently. From SDA and SIL to home modifications and assistive technology, there are many ways the NDIS can assist.
Need help navigating your NDIS housing options? Get in touch with us at Proactive Plan Managers – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Proactive Plan Managers
📞 0434 425 855