SIL vs SDA: What's the Difference? A Simple Explanation

SIL and SDA are two of the most confused terms in the NDIS. They sound similar, both relate to housing, and many participants have both in their plans — but they fund completely different things.

SIL funds the people

Supported Independent Living pays for the support workers who help you in your home: assistance with personal care, cooking, cleaning, medication and building daily living skills. SIL can be funded at different intensities, up to 24/7 support including overnight staff. You can receive SIL in a share house with other participants or, in some cases, living alone.

SDA funds the building

Specialist Disability Accommodation funds the physical dwelling itself — but only for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs who require specially designed housing. SDA homes are built to certified design categories like Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, and High Physical Support.

How they work together

• A participant might live in an SDA-funded apartment (the building) and receive SIL supports there (the staff).
• Many SIL participants don't have SDA — they live in ordinary rentals or family homes.
• SDA without SIL is possible too, though less common.

If housing is part of your NDIS goals, raise it early in your planning meeting and ask for a housing assessment. Our team can talk you through SIL options in Adelaide, including how vacancy matching works.