ILO host arrangements: living with a host
How a host arrangement works under an Individualised Living Option, who it suits, and how support and payments are set up
What is an ILO host arrangement?
Who does a host arrangement suit?
How is the host supported and paid?
Host arrangement vs group home
How host matching works
Safeguards that keep a host arrangement safe
Rent, board and money in a host home
Can a family member be your host?
Frequently asked questions
What is an ILO host arrangement?
It's a living arrangement, designed and funded through an Individualised Living Option, where an NDIS participant lives in a host's home — often a family — who provides day-to-day support and a place in their household, with the host supported and compensated through the ILO supports.
Who does an ILO host arrangement suit?
People who want the feel of family life, benefit from consistent one-to-one relationships, and prefer a stable household over the shift-and-staff rhythm of a group home. Good matching between the person and the host household is essential.
Is a host arrangement the same as foster care?
No. It's a purpose-designed adult disability living arrangement under the NDIS, with agreed supports, a written agreement, backup support and safeguards — not foster care or ordinary boarding.
How is the host paid?
The host is compensated through the ILO supports, designed and agreed during ILO Stage 1 and funded in Stage 2. The arrangement also includes backup support, training and a coordinating provider who monitors quality.
How is a host arrangement different from a group home?
A host arrangement is built around you in a family household with one consistent host, while a group home (usually SIL) is a shared supported home with rotating staff and other residents you may not have chosen. Host arrangements offer more continuity of relationship.
Can a family member be my host?
Sometimes, but it is handled carefully because the NDIS does not usually pay family for support they would ordinarily give. A family host arrangement still needs screening, a written agreement, monitoring and backup support, and must be a genuine designed living option rather than funding existing family life. Raise it…
Do I still pay board if I live with a host?
Usually yes. Your NDIS funding pays for the support the host provides, while you generally cover your own board, food and personal costs from your income, as you would in any home. The amounts should be set out in writing so it is clear what your funding covers and what board covers.
What happens if a host arrangement does not work out?
The written agreement sets out how either side can end the arrangement and the notice required, and the coordinating provider helps you plan what comes next. Because ILO is designed around you, ending one host arrangement does not end your ILO — you can explore another host or a different model with your provider.