How to Choose Between SIL, SDA and ILO: A Practical Guide 

Choosing the right housing and living support under the NDIS is one of the most important decisions a participant can make. Your accommodation choice doesn’t just determine where you live; it shapes your independence, daily routines, relationships, safety, and long-term wellbeing. Yet for many participants and families, understanding the difference between Supported Independent Living (SIL), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), and Individualised Living Options (ILO) can feel confusing and overwhelming. 

This practical guide is designed to help you confidently choose SIL vs SDA vs ILO under the NDIS, by clearly explaining how each option works, who it suits, how funding differs, and how to align your choice with your living goals. With the right information and guidance from experienced providers such as SupportPoint, participants can make informed housing decisions that truly support independence and quality of life. 

Understanding NDIS Housing and Living Supports 

Before comparing SIL, SDA, and ILO, it’s important to understand how housing fits into the broader NDIS framework. 

The NDIS does not provide housing in the traditional sense. Instead, it funds supports related to living arrangements for participants whose disability significantly impacts their ability to live independently. These supports are designed to help participants: 

• Live as independently as possible 

• Receive appropriate daily support 

• Access safe and suitable accommodation 

• Build skills and autonomy over time 

Each option like SIL, SDA, and ILO addresses different levels of need, support intensity, and personal choice. 

What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)? 

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS support that helps participants live in a shared or individual home while receiving daily assistance from support workers. 

What SIL Actually Covers 

SIL funding pays for support services, not rent or housing costs. These supports typically include: 

• Personal care (showering, dressing, toileting) 

• Meal preparation and nutrition support 

• Medication assistance 

• Help with daily routines 

• Overnight supervision or active support 

• Building independent living skills 

SIL is usually delivered in shared accommodation, where participants live with one or more housemates and share support staff. 

Who is SIL Best Suited For? 

SIL is generally appropriate for participants who: 

• Require regular daily support 

• Cannot live alone safely without assistance 

• Benefit from shared supports 

• Are comfortable living with others 

• Have moderate to high support needs 

SIL works best when participants’ needs align well with others in the household. 

What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)? 

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to the physical housing itself, designed for participants with very high or complex support needs. 

What Makes SDA Different? 

Unlike SIL or ILO, SDA funding is for the building, not the support staff. SDA properties are purpose-built or modified to include features such as: 

• Wheelchair accessibility 

• Ceiling hoists 

• Wide doorways and corridors 

• Assistive technology integration 

• Robust construction for safety 

• High physical support design 

Participants living in SDA typically also receive SIL or other support services, funded separately. 

Who is Eligible for SDA? 

SDA is only approved for a small percentage of NDIS participants. Eligibility usually applies if a participant: 

• Has extreme functional impairment or very high support needs 

• Requires specialised housing to reduce long-term care costs 

• Needs a highly accessible or specialised living environment 

• Cannot safely live in mainstream housing with reasonable adjustments 

What is Individualised Living Options (ILO)? 

Individualised Living Options (ILO) is the most flexible and personalised living arrangement under the NDIS. 

How ILO Works 

ILO funding supports the design and delivery of a customised living arrangement, based on what works best for the individual. It may include: 

• Living alone with tailored supports 

• Living with a host family 

• Living with chosen housemates 

• Living with informal supports (friends, family, community members) 

• Flexible paid and unpaid support combinations 

ILO funding focuses on how supports are arranged, rather than a specific housing model. 

Who Is ILO Best For? 

ILO suits participants who: 

• Want high choice and control 

• Do not fit well into shared SIL environments 

• Have stable informal supports 

• Want to live alone or in non-traditional settings 

• Are able to direct their own supports (with or without assistance) 

SIL vs SDA vs ILO: Side-by-Side Comparison 

This comparison highlights why choosing the right option depends heavily on your living goals, functional needs, and preferences. 

Aligning Accommodation With Your Living Goals 

Your housing decision should always start with your NDIS goals, not the funding model. 

Key Questions to Ask Yourself 

• Do I want to live alone or with others? 

• How much daily support do I need? 

• Do I need specialised physical housing? 

• How important is choice and flexibility to me? 

• Do I have informal supports available? 

• What does independence look like for me? 

A participant focused on social connection and routine may thrive in SIL, while someone seeking autonomy and flexibility may benefit more from ILO. 

Funding Differences Explained Simply 

Understanding funding differences is essential when deciding how to choose SIL vs SDA vs ILO under the NDIS. 

SIL Funding 

• Ongoing support funding 

• Based on support hours and intensity 

• Shared across housemates 

• Reviewed regularly 

SDA Funding 

• Covers the cost of specialised housing 

• Paid directly to SDA providers 

• Requires strict eligibility 

• Separate from support funding 

ILO Funding 

• Flexible and tailored 

• Covers planning, set-up, and ongoing supports 

• Can include informal support arrangements 

• Reviewed based on outcomes 

Each funding type has different evidence requirements and approval processes. 

How SupportPoint Helps Participants Navigate Housing Choices 

Choosing between SIL, SDA, and ILO requires careful planning, evidence gathering, and alignment with NDIS criteria. This is where SupportPoint plays an important role for participants and families. 

SupportPoint assists participants to understand accommodation options, clarify living goals, coordinate assessments, and ensure housing choices are supported by strong evidence. Their guidance helps participants avoid unsuitable placements and advocate for living arrangements that genuinely support independence, safety, and long-term wellbeing. 

Red Flags to Watch When Choosing Accommodation 

• Being rushed into shared housing 

• Limited choice of housemates 

• Lack of clear support agreements 

• Poor alignment with personal goals 

• No flexibility for future changes 

Your accommodation should evolve with you, not restrict you. 

Planning for the Future 

Your housing needs may change over time due to: 

• Health changes 

• Skill development 

• Support needs increasing or decreasing 

• Relationship changes 

• Transition from family home 

Choosing a flexible option where possible helps future-proof your living arrangement. 

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice With Confidence 

Deciding how to choose SIL vs SDA vs ILO under the NDIS is not about selecting the “best” model; it’s about choosing the right fit for you. Each option has strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. 

With clear goals, accurate information, and professional guidance, participants can secure living arrangements that support dignity, independence, and wellbeing. If you are exploring NDIS accommodation options or reassessing your current living situation, SupportPoint can provide the clarity and support needed to move forward with confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions