SIL, SDA, STA Explained: What’s the Difference?

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the different types of support available. If you or a loved one are exploring options in New South Wales, it helps to know the key differences between Supported Independent Living (SIL), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), and Short-Term Accommodation (STA), also called Respite Care. Each of these supports plays a unique role in helping people with disability live well and with choice.

This guide breaks down what SIL, SDA, and STA are, who they suit, how they are funded, and real-life examples to make things clearer. Plus, learn how Family Care Australia supports participants with these options in a caring and personalised way.

Angela learning maths with Julia's support and encouragement

Supported Independent Living (SIL)

What SIL Is

Supported Independent Living is a type of NDIS Core Support designed to help people with higher support needs live as independently as possible in their own home. SIL includes help or supervision with daily tasks like personal care, cooking meals, cleaning, and learning everyday skills. This support can be provided in shared homes or individual living arrangements.

Who SIL Is Suitable For

SIL suits people who need regular assistance to manage daily life but want to live in a home environment rather than a facility. It’s ideal for those who benefit from support with personal care and household tasks but still want to build independence and control over their lives.

How SIL Is Funded Under the NDIS

SIL funding comes from the Core Supports budget in an NDIS plan. The amount depends on the participant’s assessed support needs and the type of living arrangement. SIL funding covers the support workers’ time and assistance but not the cost of housing itself.

Real-Life Example

Emma lives with cerebral palsy and needs help with showering, meal preparation, and managing her medications. She shares a home with two other participants and receives SIL support daily. This helps Emma live comfortably and safely while learning new skills to increase her independence.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

What SDA Is

Specialist Disability Accommodation refers to NDIS funding for the physical design and features of a home built or modified for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA focuses on the house itself — like wheelchair-accessible layouts, ramps, and safety features — but does not include daily care or support services.

Who SDA Is Suitable For

SDA is for participants who require specially designed housing to meet their complex physical needs. This includes people who use wheelchairs, have limited mobility, or need features like ceiling hoists or emergency call systems built into their home.

How SDA Is Funded Under the NDIS

SDA funding is separate from Core Supports and is allocated to cover the cost of the specialised housing. It is paid to the housing provider or landlord, not the participant directly. SDA funding does not cover support workers or personal care.

Real-Life Example

John has a spinal cord injury and uses a wheelchair full-time. He lives in an SDA home with wide doorways, a roll-in shower, and automated doors. The home’s design helps John move around safely and comfortably, but his personal care support is funded separately through SIL.

Caregiver assisting participant with meal preparation during supported independent living

Short-Term Accommodation (STA) / Respite Care

What STA Is

Short-Term Accommodation, also called Respite Care, provides short stays away from a participant’s usual home. STA gives participants and their carers a break by offering support and accommodation for a few days up to two weeks. It helps carers recharge and participants experience a change of environment with support.

Who STA Is Suitable For

STA suits participants who need occasional breaks from their usual care routine or whose carers need rest. It is also helpful for people who want to try living away from home for short periods or need extra support during family emergencies or holidays.

How STA Is Funded Under the NDIS

STA funding comes from the Core Supports budget and is planned according to the participant’s needs. The NDIS plan specifies how many nights or days of STA are funded each year. The funding covers accommodation and support during the stay.

Real-Life Example

Lily’s mother cares for her full-time but needs a break to manage her own health. Lily stays at an STA service for one week, where she receives support with personal care and daily activities. This break helps both Lily and her mother feel refreshed and supported.

How Family Care Australia Supports You

At Family Care Australia, we understand that every participant’s needs and goals are unique. We provide compassionate, personalised support across SIL, SDA, and STA services. Our approach focuses on choice and control, ensuring you or your loved one can live with dignity and independence.

We work closely with participants and families to tailor supports that fit individual lifestyles and preferences. Whether it’s helping you settle into a supported living home, finding the right SDA housing, or arranging short-term accommodation for a well-deserved break, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

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