What is the difference between SDA and SIL?

SDA is the funding that covers the cost of the physical dwelling — the building itself. SIL is the funding that covers the cost of support workers who assist you in your daily life at home. Most SDA residents also receive SIL, but they are funded and assessed separately and you can have one without the other in some…

Can I live in an SDA home that is registered under a different category than my approval?

No. Your SDA funding can only be used in a dwelling that is registered under the same category as your approval. If you want to move into a dwelling in a different category, you would need to apply for a variation to your SDA eligibility.

How long does SDA eligibility last?

SDA eligibility is not time-limited in the same way as individual supports. Once you are found eligible, the eligibility persists unless there is a significant change in your disability-related needs that would warrant a reassessment. Your SDA funding amount is reviewed at each plan review.

Who pays the SDA provider?

The SDA payment is made from your NDIS plan to the registered SDA provider. You may also be required to contribute a reasonable rent contribution, which is currently calculated as a proportion of your Disability Support Pension. Your SDA provider and plan manager can explain how the payment structure works in practice.

Understanding the SDA design categories

Updated 5 May 2026 · reviewed by Prakash Bartaula, Founder, Novida

High Physical Support, Robust, Fully Accessible, Improved Liveability and Basic — what each category means for you.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between SDA and SIL?: SDA is the funding that covers the cost of the physical dwelling — the building itself. SIL is the funding that covers the cost of support workers who assist you in your daily life at home. Most SDA residents also receive SIL, but they are funded and assessed separately and you can have one without the other in some…
Can I live in an SDA home that is registered under a different category than my approval?: No. Your SDA funding can only be used in a dwelling that is registered under the same category as your approval. If you want to move into a dwelling in a different category, you would need to apply for a variation to your SDA eligibility.
How long does SDA eligibility last?: SDA eligibility is not time-limited in the same way as individual supports. Once you are found eligible, the eligibility persists unless there is a significant change in your disability-related needs that would warrant a reassessment. Your SDA funding amount is reviewed at each plan review.
Who pays the SDA provider?: The SDA payment is made from your NDIS plan to the registered SDA provider. You may also be required to contribute a reasonable rent contribution, which is currently calculated as a proportion of your Disability Support Pension. Your SDA provider and plan manager can explain how the payment structure works in practice.