The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was established in 2013 to provide support and assistance to people with disabilities in Australia. One of the key areas of support provided under the scheme is supported accommodation. This type of accommodation is designed to provide people with disabilities with a safe and supportive environment that meets their specific needs.
What Is Supported Accommodation?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a service provided under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that supports people with disabilities to live independently in their own homes. It assists with daily living tasks and supports to develop life skills. The NDIS is a government-funded program that funds eligible Australians with permanent and significant disabilities to access services and support to help them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Supported accommodation can provide people with disabilities with a range of benefits that can help them to live independently, build social connections, and achieve their goals.
Types of Supported Accommodation
There are several types of supported accommodation available under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), including
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL is funding provided by the NDIS to support people with disabilities who need assistance with daily living tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care. SIL funding is used to cover the cost of support workers who assist individuals in their own homes or in shared accommodation, such as a group home.
Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
STA is funding provided by the NDIS to support people with disabilities who require short-term accommodation, such as respite care or transitional housing. STA can be used to cover the cost of accommodation, as well as support workers and other services as needed.
Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA)
MTA is funding provided by the NDIS to support people with disabilities who require medium-term accommodation, such as while they are transitioning between housing options or awaiting a more permanent accommodation solution. MTA can be used to cover the cost of accommodation, as well as support workers and other services as needed.
Individual Living Options (ILO)
ILO is a type of accommodation option under the NDIS that allows individuals with disabilities to design and manage their own living arrangements. ILO provides funding for support workers, home modifications, and other services as needed to support individuals in their chosen living arrangements. This option is designed to give people with disabilities more control over their living arrangements and support services.
Who Is Eligible for Supported Accommodation Under the NDIS?
To be eligible for supported accommodation under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a person must meet certain criteria. These criteria include:
- Having a permanent disability that significantly affects their ability to perform daily living tasks and participate in the community.
- Being an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or a holder of a protected Special Category Visa.
- Being under the age of 65.
- Living in an area where the NDIS has been rolled out.
In addition to these eligibility criteria, a person must also meet the specific eligibility requirements for the type of supported accommodation they are seeking. For example, to be eligible for specialist disability accommodation (SDA), a person must have an extreme functional impairment or very high support needs that cannot be met through other types of accommodation.
Types of Supports Available in Supported Accommodation
The supports available in supported accommodation vary based on the individual’s needs and the type of accommodation. Common supports include personal care, household tasks, health management, community participation, and social and emotional support. The level and frequency of support provided are tailored to meet the individual’s specific needs and goals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Provider
When choosing a supported accommodation provider, it’s important to consider factors such as the location and accessibility of the accommodation, the type of accommodation and support available, the qualifications and experience of support staff, the provider’s policies and procedures, and the cost of the accommodation and support services. It’s also a good idea to speak with other individuals or families who have used the provider’s services to get a sense of their experiences and satisfaction with the provider.
Supported accommodation is an important aspect of the NDIS, providing people with disabilities with the support they need to live independently and thrive. By understanding the eligibility criteria, available support, funding options, and how to choose the right provider, individuals and families can make informed decisions about the best-supported accommodation option for their needs.
