Want to Live with Friends in NDIS Housing? Here's How

Living with friends can be a rewarding and empowering experience — one that offers emotional support, shared responsibilities, and a strong sense of community. If you're an NDIS participant looking into Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or Supported Independent Living (SIL), you might be wondering: Can I live with my friends in NDIS housing?

The answer is yes — in many cases, you can. But there are a few important things to consider. This guide will walk you through what’s possible, what to plan for, and how to make it happen.

1. What Is NDIS Housing?

NDIS housing typically refers to two main types of support:

• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): Designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA focuses on the physical building and accessibility features.

• Supported Independent Living (SIL): Support services that help you with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, or managing medications, often in shared housing.

2. Can I Choose Who I Live With?

Yes — choice and control are at the heart of the NDIS. That includes where you live and who you live with.

If you want to live with a friend (or friends), it’s important that:

• Everyone involved is an NDIS participant (if supports are being shared).

• The arrangement suits each person’s needs and goals.

• Your living arrangement is included in your NDIS plan, especially if it affects the support you require.

3. How to Make It Happen

Here are some practical steps to start planning:

Talk to Your Support Coordinator or Planner

They can help you express your goals in your plan and explore options that support your living arrangement.

Ensure Compatibility

Living with friends is exciting, but it’s important to make sure that your support needs, daily routines, and preferences align. A good match can make a big difference in shared living success.

Explore Housing Providers

Some SDA and SIL providers offer flexible arrangements or help people who want to move in together. You can express a preference to live with specific people, and providers may support that choice.

4. Things to Consider

• Funding: Your funding should reflect your shared living situation. For example, if you and a friend share a home, support staff might be rostered across both of your needs.

• Tenancy Agreements: Each tenant should have a fair and clear agreement — it’s important everyone understands their rights and responsibilities.

• Conflict Resolution: Like any housemates, disagreements can happen. Think about how you'll manage challenges and make sure supports are in place to assist if needed.

5. What if My Friend Doesn’t Have NDIS?

If your friend is not an NDIS participant, you can still live together — but they may not be eligible for the same funded supports. In this case, it’s important to work out a private arrangement and discuss it with your NDIS planner.

Final Thoughts

Living with friends in NDIS housing is possible and encouraged when it supports your independence, wellbeing, and goals. The NDIS is designed to be flexible and person-centred, which means your living preferences matter.

With the right planning and support, you can build a home environment that works for you and the people you choose to share it with.

Looking for SDA Accommodation?

We’re here to help. Whether you need support gathering reports, finding providers, or navigating the NDIS system, get in touch with our team. Let’s work together to help you find your perfect home.

Our team At Ausnew Home Care is here to assist you in finding the perfect living arrangement that supports your independence and well-being.

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This article is intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional advice. Always consult with your NDIS planner or support coordinator for personalized guidance.