Before you search: check your plan
You can only use SDA funding if SDA is in your plan. The plan names a design category, such as Improved Liveability or High Physical Support, a building type, such as an apartment or house, and a location. The home you choose usually needs to line up with these.
If SDA is not in your plan yet, you will need to ask the NDIA for home and living supports, with evidence, before a provider can claim SDA funding for you.
Where SDA vacancies are listed
- The SDA Finder, linked from the NDIS website, where you can filter by location, building type, design category, number of residents and price. Vacancies are updated weekly and only registered providers can advertise
- Other SDA vacancy matching platforms listed on the NDIS website
- SDA providers' own websites and waiting lists
- Support coordinators, specialist support coordinators and SIL providers, who often hear about vacancies first
Not every vacancy is advertised
Some vacancies are filled through networks before they are listed. If you are not finding anything in your area, tell your support coordinator, local area coordinator or planner what you are looking for. Ask providers to add you to their interest list, and check back regularly.
What to ask before you apply
- What design category and building type is the home enrolled as?
- How many people live there, and can I meet them?
- Who provides the support in the home, and can I choose my own SIL provider?
- What is the rent, and how is the reasonable rent contribution worked out?
- What does the SDA agreement say about notice, repairs and moving out?
- Is it close to my family, work, health services and transport?
Housemates and support
In a shared home, who you live with matters as much as the building. Ask for a visit, a meal together or a trial stay before you commit. Keep the housing and the support separate in your mind: the SDA provider owns or manages the home, and your support may come from a SIL provider you choose.
Since 1 July 2026, SIL providers must be registered with the NDIS Commission. If a vacancy comes with a SIL provider, check they are registered or applied by the 1 October 2026 deadline.
If you need somewhere while you wait
Medium Term Accommodation can be funded for a short period if you have a long term home lined up but cannot move in yet, for example while modifications are finished. Ask your support coordinator whether it applies to you.