SIL vs SDA — what's the difference?
SIL and SDA are two very different parts of NDIS housing. SIL funds the support workers; SDA funds the building itself. Most participants who use SDA also have SIL.
What is SIL?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) funds the support workers who help you with daily tasks in your home — cooking, cleaning, personal care and overnight support. It can be delivered in shared housing or in your own home.
What is SDA?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) funds the building — purpose-built accessible housing for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA has four design categories: Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust and High Physical Support.
How SIL and SDA work together
Many participants are funded for both — SDA covers the housing, SIL covers the on-site support. You can also have SIL without SDA (in regular housing) or SDA without SIL.
How My Care Link Australia can help
We match you with SIL providers and help you find SDA vacancies that fit your category and location — at no cost.
This guide is general educational information only. It is not medical, legal or financial advice. For decisions about your individual situation, please speak with the appropriate qualified professional.
Related services
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Live independently with the right level of support, in shared or individual housing.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Purpose-built accessible housing for participants with extreme functional impairment.
NDIS Support Coordination
Help understanding and making the most of your NDIS plan.
NDIS Occupational Therapy
OTs help build skills for daily living, work, study and play.
Related conditions
Cerebral Palsy
Lifelong NDIS support for children and adults with cerebral palsy.
Spinal Cord Injury
Lifelong NDIS support after a spinal cord injury.
Intellectual Disability
NDIS support for people living with an intellectual disability.
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Specialist NDIS support after acquired brain injury.
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