Can NDIS Help With Housing
The NDIS can help with housing by funding the supports you need to live independently. While it usually does not pay for your rent or mortgage, it can pay for home changes and the people who help you every day.
Understanding Home and Living Supports in Victoria
Finding a safe place to live is a top goal for many people in Gippsland and Cardinia. The NDIS has special categories to help make this dream come true. At Curamus, we focus on helping you find the right mix of housing supports in the Pakenham region.
It is important to know that the NDIS sees "the house" and "the support" as two different things. We help you navigate these rules so you can feel secure in your home.
TL;DR How the NDIS Supports Your Housing Goals
The NDIS provides funding for disability-related housing needs but not for general living costs. This means they will not pay for your groceries, electricity, or weekly rent. However, they can fund Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) if you need a house with special features like ceiling hoists. They also fund Supported Independent Living (SIL), which pays for the staff who help you with cooking and cleaning.
To get these supports, you need to show the NDIS that they are reasonable and necessary. Usually, this requires a report from an Occupational Therapist. By April 2026, the NDIS is also using new Support Needs Assessments to make these decisions faster and fairer for everyone in Victoria.
The Main Types of NDIS Housing Support
There are several ways the NDIS can help you with your living situation.
Every person has different needs, so the NDIS offers different types of funding.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
SDA is for people with very high support needs who need a special building. These houses have features like reinforced ceilings, automated doors, or high-access bathrooms. While the NDIS pays for the building, you still pay a "reasonable rent contribution" to the provider.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL is the most common type of housing support. It pays for One-on-One Support workers to help you at home. We provide SIL in areas like Gippsland to help people build their daily life skills.
Individualised Living Options (ILO)
ILO is a flexible way to live. It lets you choose who you live with and how you are supported. You might choose to live with a host family or share a house with friends. It focuses on your personal choices and your community.
Medium Term Accommodation (MTA)
MTA is a temporary place to stay for up to 90 days. It is used when your long-term home is not ready yet. For example, if you are waiting for In-Home Support to start or for home modifications to be finished.
Can the NDIS Pay for Home Modifications?
Yes, the NDIS can pay to change your home to make it safer and easier to use.
These changes can be small or large. We see many participants in Pakenham who stay in their own homes because of these modifications.
Minor Changes: Installing grab rails in the shower or adding a small ramp.
Complex Changes: Full bathroom renovations, widening doorways, or installing lifts.
The NDIS will only fund these if you plan to stay in the home for a long time. This includes private rentals, provided you have the landlord's permission.
Respite and Short Term Accommodation (STA)
Sometimes you or your carers need a short break.
Short Term Accommodation, often called Respite, funds a stay away from home for up to 14 days. This gives your family a rest and gives you a chance to try new things. We offer Group Community Access during these stays to make them fun and social.
New 2026 Rules for Housing Assessments
The way the NDIS decides on housing is changing this year.
By mid 2026, the NDIS is moving to an "assessment-led" model. This means they will use a new tool called the I-CAN Assessment to figure out your budget. Instead of your provider tellling the NDIS how many hours you need, the NDIS will set a budget based on your daily life needs.
This change aims to be fairer for everyone in Cardinia and Gippsland. It reduces the need for you to pay for expensive private reports every year.
How to Apply for Housing Support
You must start by setting a "housing goal" in your NDIS plan.
Once your goal is set, you will need evidence to show why you need help.
Talk to your Support Coordinator: They can help you explore different living options.
Get a Functional Capacity Assessment: A therapist will write a report about your daily challenges.
Submit a Request: You or your coordinator will send a "Home and Living Supports Request" to the NDIS.
Why Local Support in Gippsland Matters
Living in a regional area like West Gippsland means you need a provider who knows the local housing market.
We understand the specific challenges of finding accessible housing in Pakenham and Cardinia. We work with local builders and landlords to help our participants find the best homes.
Our team at Curamus is local. We know the streets, the shops, and the community. We use this local knowledge to help you live as independently as possible.
FAQ About NDIS Housing
Does the NDIS pay my weekly rent?
No, the NDIS does not pay for standard rent. You are expected to use your own income, such as the Disability Support Pension, to cover your rent and bills.
Can I get SIL if I live with my parents?
Yes, you can receive SIL support while living in your family home. This can help you learn the skills you need to move out on your own in the future.
How long does it take to get SDA approval?
It can take several months. The NDIS checks these requests very carefully. It is best to have very strong evidence from your Occupational Therapist before you apply.
Can I move to a different town and keep my housing support?
Yes, your NDIS plan moves with you. If you move from Melbourne to Gippsland, we can help you set up your supports in your new home.
Contact Curamus Today
Are you ready to explore your housing options? Our team is here to help you understand the rules and find a home that works for you.
Make a Referral: Start your referral now
Contact Us: Speak with our housing experts
Phone: 0484 824 250
Email: enquiries@curamus.com.au
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday (8am - 6pm)