Understanding the Difference Between SDA and SIL

If you’re navigating the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), you’ve probably come across the terms Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL). While they often work together, they refer to different types of supports within an NDIS plan. Understanding how SDA funding and SIL funding operate can help you make the most of your plan and achieve greater independence.

What Is the difference between SDA and SIL?

The key difference between SDA and SIL lies in what they fund:

• SDA covers the bricks and mortar – the specially designed or modified home that meets the needs of people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.
• SIL covers the supports provided within that home, such as assistance with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and personal care.

Put simply, SDA covers the home itself, while SIL covers the support you receive inside the home.

SDA Overview

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to purpose-built or modified homes designed to support people with high physical or cognitive support needs.

Key Features of SDA Homes:

• Accessible designs that promote safety and independence
• Features like wider doorways, reinforced walls, hoists, or assistive technology
• Located in accessible and community-connected areas

SDA Funding

SDA funding is provided by the NDIS to eligible participants who require specialist housing solutions.

NDIS participants can live in SDA homes individually or share with others, depending on their support needs and housing preferences.

SIL Overview

Supported Independent Living (SIL) focuses on the daily support services you receive while living in your home, whether that’s in an SDA property, private rental, or family home.

Examples of SIL supports:

• Assistance with personal care, such as showering or dressing
• Help with cooking, cleaning, and other household tasks
• 24/7 support or on-call overnight assistance (depending on your plan)

SIL Funding

SIL funding is part of your NDIS plan and is paid to a SIL provider, not the landlord or housing provider. The amount depends on the level of support you require, from drop-in support a few times a week to round-the-clock assistance.

Can I have both SDA and SIL in my NDIS plan?

Yes, you can have both SDA and SIL in your NDIS plan if you meet the eligibility criteria for each.

Here’s how they work together:

• Your SDA funding pays for the specially designed home that meets your physical needs.
• Your SIL funding pays for the support staff who help you live independently in that home.

Having both SDA and SIL supports allows participants to live in a home that’s fit for their needs, while receiving the right level of assistance.

However, not everyone eligible for SIL will qualify for SDA, and vice versa. The NDIS assesses each person’s circumstances individually, considering both their housing and support requirements.

How does Vera Living work with SIL providers?

Vera Living supports SIL providers searching for new SDA housing to continue to support existing participants. We work closely with like-minded Supported Independent Living (SIL) Providers to ensure our residents receive high-quality, personalised support in their homes, on their terms.

For more information on our approach to SIL collaboration, visit our SDA for Support Providers page.

How do I know if I’m eligible for SDA?

We’ve developed the SDA Eligibility Tool, an online tool designed to assess your likelihood of accessing SDA funding.

The questions asked in the tool asked are carefully measured against the legislative requirements determining SDA eligibility, to help determine the likelihood of eligibility.

Use the online tool and start exploring your options today.