Individualised living options: What are individualised living options under the NDIS?
Every person has different preferences, routines and goals when it comes to where and how they live. For people with disability, finding a living arrangement that supports independence while providing the right level of assistance can make a significant difference to everyday life.
Individualised living options (ILO) under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provide a way for eligible participants to explore living arrangements that reflect their individual needs, preferences and circumstances.
Rather than following a single accommodation model, ILO focuses on developing a living arrangement around the participant. This may involve living alone, sharing a home with other people or receiving support from someone who is part of the participant’s chosen living arrangement.
For participants and families exploring disability accommodation options, understanding how ILO works can help them make more informed decisions about the future.
How individualised living options support choice and control
Choice and control are important principles of person-centred disability support. Participants should have opportunities to make decisions about their living arrangements, daily routines and the people involved in their support.
Individualised living options can help eligible participants explore these choices in a structured way.
Depending on the person’s circumstances, an ILO arrangement may involve:
- Living alone with an agreed support network.
- Sharing a home with a housemate or other residents.
- Receiving assistance from a host who provides support as part of the living arrangement.
- Combining informal support from family or friends with appropriate paid support.
- Developing a support network that encourages participation in household and community activities.
The most suitable arrangement depends on the participant’s goals, support requirements, preferences and available options. There is no single model that works for everyone.
How ILO differs from other NDIS living arrangements
The NDIS offers different types of support that may help participants with their living arrangements. Understanding the differences can help individuals and families identify the options worth exploring.
Individualised living options
ILO focuses on designing a personalised living arrangement and establishing the support needed to make it work. It can offer flexibility in how a person lives and receives assistance.
Supported Independent Living
Supported Independent Living (SIL) generally involves assistance with everyday tasks for people with disability who require support to live as independently as possible, often in a shared home. The level and pattern of support depend on individual needs and the person’s NDIS plan.
Specialist Disability Accommodation
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to specialised housing for eligible NDIS participants with significant functional impairment or very high support needs. It relates to the housing itself, rather than being a complete substitute for the personal support a resident may require.
ILO, SIL and SDA serve different purposes. A participant’s eligibility and funding arrangements depend on their circumstances and the relevant NDIS requirements.
ILO funding is not simply a payment for accommodation or rent. Participants should confirm which supports may be funded through their plan and what other living costs they need to manage.
The importance of understanding individual needs
A successful ILO arrangement begins with understanding the person, not simply selecting a place to live.
Participants may need different levels of assistance with personal care, meal preparation, household tasks, medication routines, appointments or community participation. Others may mainly need help establishing a reliable support network and managing particular aspects of daily life.
A person-centred approach considers several factors:
Daily routines: What does the participant want their typical day to look like? Their preferred wake-up times, meals, activities and personal routines should be considered.
Independence goals: Which tasks would the participant like to manage independently, and where would assistance make everyday life easier or safer?
Relationships and social connections: Living arrangements should consider the participant’s relationships, friendships and opportunities to remain connected with their community.
Safety and wellbeing: The support arrangement should reflect the person’s needs, preferences and any relevant risks without unnecessarily limiting their independence.
Future changes: Support requirements can change over time. Reviewing the arrangement helps ensure that it continues to suit the participant.
Involving the participant in these discussions is essential. Family members, support coordinators and other relevant professionals may also contribute, with the participant’s consent.
How families can explore an ILO arrangement
Families often play an important role in helping participants consider their options. However, navigating the process can involve several discussions and decisions.
The following steps can help provide a starting point.
1. Identify the participant’s goals
Begin by discussing where the person would like to live, what independence means to them and what type of support they would find helpful.
The participant’s preferences should guide the process as much as possible.
2. Explore possible living arrangements
Consider different options, including living alone, sharing a home or developing a support arrangement involving trusted people. Discuss the practical advantages, limitations and support requirements of each option.
3. Understand the NDIS requirements
Speak with the participant’s support coordinator or relevant NDIS contact about eligibility, plan funding and the process for exploring ILO. Funding approval should not be assumed, as decisions depend on individual circumstances and current NDIS requirements.
4. Plan the support network
Consider who will provide support, when assistance is needed and how responsibilities will be managed. The arrangement should be practical, sustainable and responsive to the participant’s needs.
5. Review the arrangement regularly
Once a living arrangement is established, regular reviews can help identify what is working well and whether any changes are required. The participant’s feedback should remain central to these discussions.
The role of personalised disability support
An appropriate support provider can help participants work towards their goals while maintaining dignity, privacy and choice. Depending on the services arranged, disability support may include assistance with personal care, household tasks, daily routines and participation in community activities.
Reliable communication between the participant, their family where appropriate, support workers and other professionals can also help maintain consistency.
The right approach is not about taking over tasks that a participant can manage themselves. It is about providing the level of assistance they need while encouraging confidence, participation and independence.
At AB Nurses, personalised support is centred on the individual’s needs and goals. Participants and families can explore available disability support services to understand what assistance may be suitable for their circumstances.
Building a living arrangement around the person
Individualised living options can provide eligible NDIS participants with an opportunity to explore living arrangements that reflect their preferences, relationships and aspirations.
The process requires careful planning, an understanding of funding requirements and a support network that can respond to changing needs. With the right approach, participants can work towards a living arrangement that gives them greater choice over their everyday lives.
Families and participants considering ILO should seek guidance from their support coordinator or the NDIS to understand the available options and applicable requirements.
Looking for personalised disability support? Visit AB Nurses to learn more about available services and discuss support options that may suit your needs.