Difference Between SIL and SDA: What You Need to Know
If you are an NDIS participant exploring housing options, you have probably come across the terms SIL (Supported Independent Living) and SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation). Many people confuse these two or are unsure which applies to them. This guide explains the key differences between SIL and SDA, helps you understand which option may suit your situation, and introduces how Yirra Care offers five SIL houses currently available for participants in Brisbane.
What is SIL?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) refers to the supports provided in a home; not the home itself. It covers daily living assistance such as personal care, cooking, cleaning, transport, and medication management.
SIL is flexible, meaning your supports can increase or decrease depending on your needs.
You can access SIL whether you live in a shared house or in your own home.
In your NDIS plan, SIL is the “how” supports are delivered in the place you live.
What is SDA?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), on the other hand, refers to the bricks and mortar; the physical housing built for people with very high needs or extreme functional impairment.
SDA homes are purpose-built with features like wide doorways, hoist-ready bedrooms, assistive technology, and accessible bathrooms.
SDA focuses on the “where” the support takes place.
Only participants who meet strict eligibility criteria under the NDIS receive SDA funding.
SIL vs SDA: At a Glance
| Feature | SIL | SDA |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Daily living supports | The home or building itself |
| Focus | The “how” of support | The “where” of support |
| Flexibility | High — can scale up or down | Low — fixed housing infrastructure |
| Eligibility | For those who need daily supports | For those with extreme functional impairment/high needs |
| Funded by NDIS | Core/Capacity Building supports | Separate SDA funding stream |
Can You Have Both?
Yes. Some participants are eligible for both SDA and SIL. In that case, your NDIS plan may include SDA funding for the specialised home and SIL funding for the supports delivered inside it. This combination is common for people with complex needs.
Choosing Between SIL and SDA
Ask yourself:
Do you require significant housing modifications (ramps, ceiling hoists, reinforced bathrooms)? If yes, SDA may be the right choice.
Do you mainly need support with daily living but your home already suits your needs? Then SIL may be enough.
Do you want both a purpose-built home and daily supports? Then SDA + SIL together may apply.
Does your NDIS plan currently include SDA funding? If not, you may only be able to access SIL unless reassessed.
Yirra Care’s SIL Houses Available Now
For participants looking for a practical solution today, Yirra Care has five SIL houses currently available in Brisbane. These homes are designed to promote independence while providing access to quality daily supports from our trained team.
If you would like to know more about their features, availability, and how they can work with your NDIS plan, complete our referral form here:
👉 Yirra Care Referral Form
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between SIL and SDA is essential when planning your NDIS supports. SIL covers the supports you receive day-to-day, while SDA refers to the home you live in.
At Yirra Care, we provide tailored SIL supports across Brisbane and currently have five SIL houses available for rent.
👉 Interested in learning more? Complete our referral form and one of our team will contact you with all the details.
