SIL, ILO, and SDA: How Occupational Therapy Reports Support NDIS Housing Applications in Shoalhaven and Illawarra

FAQ: Functional Assessment

Finding the right living arrangement is a key step in achieving independence for many NDIS participants. But applying for Supported Independent Living (SIL), Individualised Living Options (ILO), or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) can feel overwhelming without the right support.

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our experienced occupational therapists—based at our Shoalhaven OT and Shellharbour OT clinics—are skilled in providing functional assessments and NDIS-compliant reports to support housing applications across the Shoalhaven and Illawarra regions.

What Are SIL, ILO and SDA?

Let’s break down these three key NDIS housing supports:

Supported Independent Living (SIL)

SIL funding provides daily support for people with higher support needs who live in shared or individual settings. It typically covers personal care, household tasks, and support with routines.

Individualised Living Options (ILO)

ILO offers flexible, person-centred living arrangements tailored to a participant’s goals. This might involve living with a host family, on your own, or with chosen housemates—with customised support.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

SDA is funding for specialist housing designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. These homes have accessibility features that support greater safety, comfort, and independence.

Why Are OT Reports So Important?

When applying for SIL, ILO, or SDA, the NDIS requires strong clinical evidence to demonstrate a participant’s support needs and functional limitations. Occupational therapy reports are a crucial part of that evidence.

Our OTs assess:

• Daily living skills and level of independence

• Assistance required for personal care, mobility, domestic tasks, and community access

• Support ratios (e.g. 1:1, 1:2) and supervision needs

• Sensory or behavioural considerations

• Home safety and environmental barriers

• Equipment needs and housing accessibility

These insights are compiled into a comprehensive report that clearly justifies the housing support being requested.

What’s Included in Our Reports?

Our reports are tailored to each participant and their individual goals. They may include:

• Functional Capacity Assessment

• Support recommendations for daily living and housing

• Housing goals and preferences

• Assessment of current vs. ideal living situations

• Risk assessments and support supervision ratios

• Collaboration with housing providers, families, and support coordinators

• Justification for SDA features or SIL eligibility

We work closely with support teams to ensure the report is complete, timely, and aligned with the participant’s NDIS goals and living preferences.

Who Needs a SIL, ILO, or SDA Report?

These reports are typically recommended for:

• NDIS participants exploring housing options for the first time

• Individuals with changing or unmet support needs

• Adults living with high physical, cognitive, or psychosocial disability

• Participants transitioning from shared to independent living

• Participants applying for SDA due to mobility, sensory, or behaviour-related housing needs

• Support coordinators preparing change-of-circumstance applications

Our Service Areas: Shoalhaven and Illawarra

Our experienced occupational therapists support clients across:

• Shoalhaven: Nowra, Bomaderry, Berry, Ulladulla, and surrounds

• Illawarra: Shellharbour, Albion Park, Kiama, and nearby areas

Assessments and report consultations are available:

• In our Shoalhaven OT and Shellharbour OT clinics

• In your home or current accommodation

• At day programs, supported living environments, or via telehealth

Trusted by Families and Support Coordinators

Our OTs are experienced in complex NDIS reporting and collaborate closely with support coordinators, housing providers, and plan managers. We’re known for:

• Clear and timely documentation

• NDIS-aligned language and report structure

• Person-centred, goal-aligned recommendations

• Fast turnaround for urgent applications and reviews

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re just beginning to explore housing options or need urgent support for a plan review, our team at South Coast Therapy & Support Group is here to help.

Contact us today to book a functional assessment or request a SIL, ILO, or SDA report. We’re proud to support NDIS participants across Shoalhaven and Illawarra to achieve greater independence through housing that truly fits their needs.