SIL and SDA are different support pathways available to participants as part of their NDIS plan. SIL stands for “Supported Independent Living”, while SDA refers to “Specialist Disability Accommodation”. These two terms sound very similar and are commonly used interchangeably. However, they are very different and refer to two separate offerings. In this article, we’ll break down this difference in simple terms, helping you or your loved one better understand which pathway to explore.
What is SIL?
Despite what the name suggests, Supported Independent Living doesn’t have anything to do with where you live. Instead, SIL encompasses the array of tasks that can help you live more independently on a daily basis. This includes activities such as, but not limited to:
- Personal care tasks like showering and dressing
- Household tasks such as cleaning and laundry
- Meal planning and cooking
- Community participation and social activities
The purpose of SIL isn’t just for support workers to complete tasks for participants, but to empower them wherever possible to increase their independence. As such, skill-building can be considered the core of successful SIL delivery, as it enables participants to live more autonomously and become more confident and engaged members of their communities. This, in turn, facilitates personal growth, leading to an improved quality of life.
Do I need to live in a shared home to be eligible for SIL?
SIL participants most commonly live in shared housing with other SIL participants. This is a popular choice because shared accommodation provides an excellent opportunity for mutual learning and peer support. It also enables support workers to provide care to multiple participants simultaneously. If you live independently, SIL will still be available to you. However, as SIL is aimed at participants who require support with tasks throughout most of the day, other supports may be better suited to your unique circumstances.
What is SDA?
SDA is all about where you live. SDA stands for “Specialist Disability Accommodation”, and unlike SIL, does not refer to the support provided to help individuals live independently. Instead, it relates to purpose-built housing for NDIS participants living with a functional impairment or high support needs.
How are SDA homes different?
All dwellings built to act as specialist disability accommodation must include a kitchen, a bathroom, a dining and living area, and entrance and exit, and at least one bedroom per participant. SDA homes are constructed to the four categories of SDA design, which are described in the SDA Design Standards. These categories are:
Improved Liveability
Housing with enhanced accessibility, with features like high-contrast walls or minimal steps to help people with sensory, intellectual, or cognitive needs.
Robust
Homes with construction that withstands damage and requires minimal maintenance. This housing can be helpful for residents who may exhibit challenging behaviours.
Fully Accessible
Maximum physical access for individuals with physical limitations, such as wheelchair users and those who cannot navigate stairs.
High Physical Support
Specialised housing with advanced equipment like ceiling hoists, backup generators, and smart home technology for people needing intensive daily assistance.
Who pays for SDA?
To be eligible for SDA, a participant must live with significant functional challenges or high-level care needs and meet NDIS SDA funding criteria. Funding for SDA is provided through each participant’s plan. However, participants cover their fair share of rent, as well as everyday household expenses, such as utility bills.
Can I have both SIL and SDA?
You can have SIL without SDA if you live in regular housing but need daily support. You can have SDA without SIL if you live in specially built disability housing but don’t need ongoing daily support. Or you can have both if you need specialised housing and daily support services.
Summarising the difference
Still unsure about the differences? The table below shows a handy breakdown of the key differences:
| What is it? | SIL (Supported Independent Living) | SDA (Specialist DIsability Accommodation) |
| What’s covered | Assistance with daily tasks provided by support workers | Special housing designed and built for people with disabilities |
| Examples |
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| Who is it for? | People who need daily help to live independently | People with high support needs who can’t live in regular housing |
| Where will you live? | Independently, or in a home shared with other NDIS participants. | In special disability housing designed to suit your needs |
How do I find the right provider?
There are several ways to find an NDIS provider that offers SIL, SDA, or both. Often, NDIS participants receive funding for a support coordinator, who will help them with tasks such as planning and managing their care. However, not all participants receive this funding. When this happens, participants often rely on the internet, family, and friends to find a provider to work with.
We’re here to help
At Scarlet Homecare, we provide both Supported Independent Living and Specialist Disability Accommodation to those under the NDIS. As your registered NDIS provider, we focus on building genuine, lasting relationships with our dedicated support team. This means you get consistent care from people who truly know and understand you. We believe that your loved ones are part of our team. Through clear, regular communication, everyone stays informed and involved in what matters most, helping you live confidently and with dignity. Do you have questions about SIL or SDA supports? We’d love to speak with you. Simply ring us on 08 8120 4069 or get in touch online. We’re here to help.
