Can I own my own home and still get SDA funding?

No. SDA funding flows to registered SDA providers who own or lease the property. However, there are emerging models, including some SDA-registered community housing arrangements, where more participant-centred ownership or leasing structures are possible. Seek specialist advice if this is your goal.

Can my family member be my SIL provider?

Generally no. The NDIS rules prevent registered SIL providers from employing immediate family members as the primary support workers for a participant. However, family members can be involved in an ILO host arrangement in some circumstances, and the rules around informal support through ILO are more flexible. Your…

What happens to my SDA or SIL funding if my needs change significantly?

Your housing funding is reviewed at each plan review, and if your functional needs increase or decrease substantially, the NDIA can adjust your SDA category or SIL hours. If you move into a higher-level SDA category property but your plan has not yet been updated to reflect that category, there can be a funding…

Can I have an overnight support worker who is a friend or acquaintance rather than a provider employee?

In a SIL arrangement, no: the support worker must be employed by the registered SIL provider. In an ILO arrangement, there is more flexibility, and a supported flatmate or live-in support person with a personal connection is one of the recognised ILO models. The key is that the ILO arrangement is properly documented,…

How long does the SDA application process take?

It varies considerably. If your evidence is comprehensive and your NDIA planner is familiar with SDA applications, a determination can be made within a few weeks of submission. If evidence is incomplete or the NDIA requests further information, it can take months. Engaging a specialist support coordinator who has…

What if I am not happy in my SDA or SIL arrangement after I move in?

You are not locked in permanently. You have the right to give notice to your SIL provider and find a new one without leaving your SDA dwelling. If you want to leave your SDA dwelling, you need to give notice under your tenancy agreement and work with your coordinator to find a new vacancy. The notice periods and…

NDIS Housing Explained: SDA, SIL & ILO

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

NDIS housing options can be confusing because the scheme funds two very different things: the physical home you live in and the support you receive inside it.…

Frequently asked questions

Can I own my own home and still get SDA funding?: No. SDA funding flows to registered SDA providers who own or lease the property. However, there are emerging models, including some SDA-registered community housing arrangements, where more participant-centred ownership or leasing structures are possible. Seek specialist advice if this is your goal.
Can my family member be my SIL provider?: Generally no. The NDIS rules prevent registered SIL providers from employing immediate family members as the primary support workers for a participant. However, family members can be involved in an ILO host arrangement in some circumstances, and the rules around informal support through ILO are more flexible. Your…
What happens to my SDA or SIL funding if my needs change significantly?: Your housing funding is reviewed at each plan review, and if your functional needs increase or decrease substantially, the NDIA can adjust your SDA category or SIL hours. If you move into a higher-level SDA category property but your plan has not yet been updated to reflect that category, there can be a funding…
Can I have an overnight support worker who is a friend or acquaintance rather than a provider employee?: In a SIL arrangement, no: the support worker must be employed by the registered SIL provider. In an ILO arrangement, there is more flexibility, and a supported flatmate or live-in support person with a personal connection is one of the recognised ILO models. The key is that the ILO arrangement is properly documented,…
How long does the SDA application process take?: It varies considerably. If your evidence is comprehensive and your NDIA planner is familiar with SDA applications, a determination can be made within a few weeks of submission. If evidence is incomplete or the NDIA requests further information, it can take months. Engaging a specialist support coordinator who has…
What if I am not happy in my SDA or SIL arrangement after I move in?: You are not locked in permanently. You have the right to give notice to your SIL provider and find a new one without leaving your SDA dwelling. If you want to leave your SDA dwelling, you need to give notice under your tenancy agreement and work with your coordinator to find a new vacancy. The notice periods and…