Finding the right place to live isn’t just about having a roof over your head—it’s about independence, safety, comfort, and dignity. If you or someone you care for is living with a disability, you might be wondering whether the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can help with housing support. The good news? It can—but not in the way you might think.
In this guide, we break down how NDIS supports housing needs, what’s covered (and what’s not), and how Giving Hand can help Sydney locals access the right kind of housing support.
What is the NDIS and How Does it Relate to Housing?
The NDIS is a government-funded scheme designed to support Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. While the scheme doesn’t replace regular housing assistance (like Centrelink or public housing), it does recognise that some people need additional support in the home due to their disability.
So, the NDIS won’t cover your rent or mortgage—but it may fund supports that allow you to live more independently, such as personal care, supervision, or home modifications.
Does the NDIS Cover Housing Costs?
Let’s get this one out of the way:
No, the NDIS does not pay for:
- Rent or bond
- Day-to-day living expenses
- Utility bills or mortgage repayments
However, it does cover housing-related supports that fall under your disability needs. These include:
- Home Modifications: Changes to your existing home to improve safety or accessibility
- Supported Independent Living (SIL): 24/7 support with daily living tasks
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): Purpose-built housing for participants with extreme functional needs
- Individualised Living Options (ILO): Flexible, tailored living support for participants not needing 24/7 care
- Short-Term and Medium-Term Accommodation (STA/MTA): Temporary housing while you transition or wait for permanent housing
Types of Housing Supports Available Under the NDIS
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL is one of the most common housing supports offered under the NDIS. It provides ongoing assistance with daily tasks, such as cooking, personal care, cleaning, and more. You can live alone or with others, depending on your goals and needs.
At Giving Hand, we help participants across Sydney access high-quality, comfortable homes with the daily support they need to thrive. We work closely with you and your support team to find the right home and level of support—whether it’s around-the-clock assistance or scheduled help during the day.