Tips for Finding and Securing Suitable NDIS Housing
Blog & News / The Importance of Daily Living Support in Building Independence
Finding the right place to live is more than just picking a building; it’s about finding a space that supports your independence, safety, and lifestyle. For NDIS participants, the “housing journey” can feel complex, but with the right preparation and a clear strategy, securing suitable accommodation is entirely achievable.
Whether you are looking for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), Supported Independent Living (SIL), or a more flexible Individualised Living Option (ILO), here are our top tips for navigating the path to your new home.
Before you start browsing properties, you need to know exactly what your NDIS plan covers. Housing and living supports generally fall into two buckets:
SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation): This funds the “bricks and mortar”—the physical home designed for people with high support needs.
SIL (Supported Independent Living): This funds the people who help you. It covers the cost of support workers to assist with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
ILO (Individualised Living Option): A more flexible approach where you design how and with whom you live (e.g., with housemates or a host).
Pro Tip: Make sure you have a clear Housing Goal written in your NDIS plan. The NDIA will only fund housing supports if they directly relate to an stated goal.
The NDIS requires proof that a specific housing type is “reasonable and necessary.” To secure funding (especially for SDA), you will likely need:
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) from an Occupational Therapist (OT).
Reports from your doctor or specialists explaining why standard housing doesn’t meet your needs.
A Participant Housing Statement detailing your personal preferences and why your current situation isn’t working.
Don’t just look on standard real estate sites. Use NDIS-specific search engines that allow you to filter by accessibility features (like ceiling hoists or wheelchair-accessible kitchens) and support models:
Housing Hub: A comprehensive database of accessible housing across Australia.
NDIS SDA Finder: The official NDIA tool to search for vacancies in registered SDA dwellings.
GoNest: Another great platform specifically for disability-friendly housing.
A home is only “suitable” if it connects you to your world. When inspecting properties, consider:
Proximity to family and friends: Staying close to your informal support network is vital.
Access to Transport: Is there a tram, train, or bus stop nearby?
Medical Services: Are your regular doctors and therapists easy to reach?
Community: Are there shops, cafes, or parks nearby where you feel comfortable?
If possible, always visit a potential home in person. Check the “fit-out” quality—are the hallways wide enough? Can you reach the light switches from a seated position?
Respite (STA): Consider spending a weekend in Short-Term Accommodation if the provider offers it. This “test drive” helps you see if the environment and the housemates (if any) are a good fit before you sign a long-term agreement.
At Truecare Support Services, we know that moving house is a major life transition. Our team is here to help you every step of the way, from clarifying your housing goals to providing the dedicated SIL support you need to thrive in your new environment.
We specialize in matching participants with support workers who share their interests, ensuring that your new house truly feels like a home.
Looking for the right housing support in Melbourne? Contact Truecare Support Services today and let’s start the journey together.
