What’s the difference between SIL and SDA?

The NDIS can be a confusing scheme full of different acronyms for those who are new to it. It’s easy to get confused. One of those areas that can be confusing is the difference between SDA and SIL.

SDA is the housing or accommodation; and SIL is the individualised support services.

SDA is an abbreviation for specialist disability accommodation, which supports some participants with a NDIS plan with customised housing that supports their needs.

For example, a participant with high physical disability might need SDA housing a more accessible bathroom, wider doors and hallways, and ceiling hoists to move in and out of bed. Alternatively, a participant with complex behaviour needs might require more robust housing.

SIL is the abbreviation for supported independent living which is disability services that provide support to the NDIS participant with daily tasks such as:

• Daily living: personal care, meal preparation, household tasks, support with medication.
• Community participation: social activities and engaging with community.
• Transport: supporting you to get to appointments and community access.
• Employment and education support: for individuals involved in education, job training or employment.
• Health and wellbeing: supporting access to healthcare services and medication administration.

SDA’s housing features make it easier and safer for NDIS participants to live there.

Where approved, the NDIS provides SDA and SIL funding to the participant through their NDIS Plan.