Can I have SDA funding alongside ILO?

Yes. SDA funds the physical premises, while ILO funds the in-home support. These can be combined where a participant lives in SDA-approved housing using an ILO support model.

Can I trial an ILO arrangement before committing?

The exploration and design phase functions as a form of trialling by allowing you to test ideas before the full arrangement is agreed and funded.

What happens if my ILO arrangement breaks down?

Your support coordinator should help you access interim support and begin planning an alternative arrangement. Having a contingency plan documented during the design phase is strongly recommended.

Are there age restrictions on ILO or SIL?

Neither has a strict age limit. Both are available to adult NDIS participants. Younger participants, particularly those approaching school leaving age, are increasingly exploring ILO as an alternative to entering group residential care.

Can I self-manage SIL funding?

SIL funding in the traditional sense is typically provider-managed because of the regulatory requirements on registered SIL providers, but ILO arrangements can be delivered with a mix of plan management and self-management depending on how the arrangement is designed.

ILO vs SIL: two very different answers to “where will I live?”

Updated 20 May 2026 · reviewed by Prakash Bartaula, Founder, Novida

Supported Independent Living and Individualised Living Options fund support at home in opposite ways. How each works, who suits which, and how to argue for the…

Frequently asked questions

Can I have SDA funding alongside ILO?: Yes. SDA funds the physical premises, while ILO funds the in-home support. These can be combined where a participant lives in SDA-approved housing using an ILO support model.
Can I trial an ILO arrangement before committing?: The exploration and design phase functions as a form of trialling by allowing you to test ideas before the full arrangement is agreed and funded.
What happens if my ILO arrangement breaks down?: Your support coordinator should help you access interim support and begin planning an alternative arrangement. Having a contingency plan documented during the design phase is strongly recommended.
Are there age restrictions on ILO or SIL?: Neither has a strict age limit. Both are available to adult NDIS participants. Younger participants, particularly those approaching school leaving age, are increasingly exploring ILO as an alternative to entering group residential care.
Can I self-manage SIL funding?: SIL funding in the traditional sense is typically provider-managed because of the regulatory requirements on registered SIL providers, but ILO arrangements can be delivered with a mix of plan management and self-management depending on how the arrangement is designed.