Board and lodging in supported housing explained
What board and lodging means in NDIS supported housing, what it covers, and how it's different from rent and from the supports the NDIS funds
What does board and lodging cover?
How is it different from rent and NDIS support?
What should I check about board and lodging?
How board and lodging fits into your weekly budget
Reading your board and lodging agreement line by line
What happens to board and lodging when you are away
Common board and lodging mistakes to avoid
Frequently asked questions
What is board and lodging in supported housing?
Board and lodging is what you pay in some supported housing for everyday household costs — commonly meals ('board') and living costs like utilities and shared supplies ('lodging'). It's the ordinary cost of running the home that every resident contributes to, separate from rent and from NDIS-funded support.
Is board and lodging the same as rent?
No. Rent (or the SDA Reasonable Rent Contribution) is for the accommodation itself, while board and lodging covers everyday household costs like meals and utilities. They're separate charges, both paid from your own income rather than your NDIS plan.
Does the NDIS pay for board and lodging?
No. The NDIS funds your disability support, not ordinary living costs. Food, utilities and household items are everyday expenses you meet from your income, the same as anyone else, so board and lodging is paid by you, not your plan.
What should I check about board and lodging charges?
Check that your agreement itemises what's included, that ordinary living costs aren't being charged through your NDIS plan, how the amount is calculated and when it can change, what happens when you're away, and that it's affordable alongside your rent and other costs.
Can I be charged board and lodging through my NDIS plan?
No — everyday living costs like meals and utilities aren't NDIS-funded supports, so they shouldn't be charged to your plan. If your charges look bundled or unclear, ask for a clear breakdown separating rent, board and lodging, and NDIS support.
How much should board and lodging cost?
There is no single set figure — board and lodging reflects the real cost of running your household, so it varies with meals, utilities and how costs are shared. What matters is that it is itemised, reasonable for what you receive, and leaves you enough income after rent for personal spending. Ask for a breakdown if the…
Do I still pay board and lodging if I go to hospital?
It depends on your agreement. Meal costs often pause during a longer absence while a share of fixed costs like utilities may continue, since your room is still held for you. Check the policy in writing, and remember your NDIS support follows your assessed need, not where you are staying.
Can board and lodging be taken out of my pension automatically?
Often yes — many supported homes arrange for board and lodging to be paid from your Disability Support Pension, sometimes through Centrepay. That is fine as long as you have agreed to it, the amount is itemised, and you can see and query what is being deducted. You should never lose visibility or control over your own…