Innovative NDIS Housing Models: Co-Living and Smart Homes 2025

# Innovative NDIS Housing Models: Co-Living and Smart Homes 2025 The landscape of NDIS housing is transforming rapidly, with 2025 bringing exciting new opportunities for participants to live independently while staying connected to their communities. As [the NDIS Quarterly Report shows Scheme expenses at $34.2 billion for the first nine months of 2024–25](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025), there's a clear focus on innovative, cost-effective housing solutions that truly meet participants' needs. From co-living arrangements that foster genuine community connections to smart homes that put control at your fingertips, the future of NDIS housing is here. With [only 2.7% of Queensland's 142,000 NDIS participants currently receiving SDA funding](https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/business/revealed-urraweens-10m-disability-housing-development-plans/news-story/73064dcd9aeb52c3b4a4303a4ff2c6d8), innovative models are essential to bridge the supply gap while offering participants more choice and flexibility in how they live. ## Co-Living: More Than Just Shared Housing Co-living represents a revolutionary approach to NDIS housing that goes far beyond traditional shared accommodation. Unlike conventional group homes, co-living arrangements are designed around choice, community, and individual empowerment. These models create spaces where participants can maintain their independence while benefiting from natural support networks and shared experiences. The updated [Individualised Living Options (ILO) guidelines](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options) now provide clearer pathways for participants to explore co-living arrangements. [Stage 2 ILO funding levels offer up to $150,000 per year for Level 2 supports and up to $230,000 per year for Level 3 supports](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/home-and-living-supports/individualised-living-options/how-do-we-decide-if-we-can-fund-individualised-living-option-and-how-much-support-you-need/stage-2-individualised-living-option-supports), making co-living financially viable for many participants. What makes co-living special is its focus on intentional community building. Participants choose their housemates based on shared interests, lifestyle preferences, or support needs. This might mean living with someone who shares your passion for cooking, your need for quiet study spaces, or your love of gardening. The result is housing that feels like home, not just accommodation. Modern co-living arrangements often incorporate flexible spaces that can be adapted as needs change. Common areas encourage interaction while private spaces ensure personal autonomy. Many co-living developments now include on-site support coordination spaces, making it easier for participants to access their NDIS supports without leaving their community. ## Smart Homes: Your Home, Your Control Smart home technology is revolutionising how NDIS participants interact with their living spaces, offering unprecedented levels of independence and control. The [updated Assistive Technology funding guidelines](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/providing-assistive-technology) now explicitly recognise home automation as fundable support when it meets reasonable and necessary criteria. Smart home integration can transform daily living for participants with various disabilities. Voice-activated lighting systems help people with mobility challenges control their environment without physical switches. Automated door locks provide security while accommodating participants who struggle with traditional keys. Smart thermostats learn preferences and adjust automatically, reducing the cognitive load of home management. The [NDIS "Would we fund it – Home automation" guide](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it) provides clear examples of funded smart devices, including automated lighting systems and integrated door locks. These technologies are assessed based on how they support individual goals and reduce reliance on paid support. [Transforming Lives: Innovative Housing Solutions within](/posts/transforming-lives-innovative-housing-solutions-within-ndis-specialist-disabilit-13531dfb) SDA developments are increasingly incorporating smart technology from the design phase. Projects like [Urraween Village in Hervey Bay](https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/business/revealed-urraweens-10m-disability-housing-development-plans/news-story/73064dcd9aeb52c3b4a4303a4ff2c6d8) are integrating smart home features into their $10 million development, setting new standards for accessible, connected living. The key to successful smart home implementation is understanding that technology should enhance independence, not complicate it. The best systems are intuitive, reliable, and can be easily modified as needs change over time. ## The Future is Flexible: SDA and Beyond Specialist Disability Accommodation is evolving beyond traditional models to embrace flexibility and personalisation. [SDA eligibility requires participants to have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation), but within these parameters, there's increasing recognition that one size doesn't fit all. Location has become a critical factor in modern SDA planning. Regional developments like the Urraween Village demonstrate how SDA can be integrated into existing communities rather than creating isolated disability-specific enclaves. This approach addresses the challenge that [only 2.7% of Queensland NDIS participants currently receive SDA funding](https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/business/revealed-urraweens-10m-disability-housing-development-plans/news-story/73064dcd9aeb52c3b4a4303a4ff2c6d8), particularly in regional areas where supply has been limited. Customisation options are expanding rapidly. Modern SDA developments offer modular designs that can be adapted to individual needs. This might include adjustable bench heights, removable walls to create larger spaces, or outdoor areas designed for specific activities. The [SDA Pricing Arrangements for 2025–26](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments) reflect these innovations while maintaining cost-effectiveness. The integration of SDA with other housing models is creating new possibilities. Some developments combine SDA units with ILO-supported co-living spaces, allowing participants to transition between different levels of support as their needs change. This flexibility recognises that housing needs aren't static – they evolve with life circumstances, health changes, and personal growth. ## Making It Happen: Practical Tips Navigating the new NDIS housing landscape requires strategic planning and clear communication with your support team. The first step is understanding your options through the [improved "Requesting home and living supports" pathways](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/requesting-home-and-living-supports), which now provide clearer forms and guidelines. Start by identifying your housing goals and priorities. Do you value community connection over privacy? Is technological independence important to you? Are you interested in regional living or prefer urban amenities? These preferences will guide your exploration of different housing models. Work closely with your support coordinator to understand funding options. [ILO funding can be used to explore living with a host or housemate](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options), while smart home modifications might be funded through Assistive Technology budgets. The [Assistive Technology funding classifications](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/providing-assistive-technology) – low-cost (under $1,500), mid-cost ($1,500-$15,000), and high-cost (over $15,000) – determine the evidence requirements for your applications. Don't rush the decision-making process. [ILO Stage 1 provides up to three months of planning support](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/home-and-living-supports/individualised-living-options/how-do-we-decide-if-we-can-fund-individualised-living-option-and-how-much-support-you-need/stage-2-individualised-living-option-supports), allowing you to thoroughly explore your options before committing to a particular arrangement. Use this time to visit different housing models, speak with current residents, and test out technologies that interest you. ## Looking Ahead The future of NDIS housing is bright with possibility. Emerging trends suggest we'll see more integration between housing and health technology, with homes that can monitor wellbeing and alert support networks when needed. Virtual reality is beginning to play a role in housing selection, allowing participants to "visit" potential homes remotely. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, with new developments incorporating solar power, water recycling, and energy-efficient designs. These features not only benefit the environment but can reduce ongoing living costs for participants. The [NDIS pricing arrangements updates](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements/pricing-updates) are beginning to recognise the long-term value of sustainable housing investments. Community integration remains a key focus, with housing developers working more closely with local councils and community organisations to ensure NDIS housing becomes part of the broader community fabric rather than standing apart from it. This approach addresses historical concerns about segregation while creating more natural support networks. The pause in [NDIA co-design work on Home and Living reforms](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10690-update-our-approach-co-design) to prioritise critical Scheme reforms doesn't mean innovation has stopped. Instead, it reflects a focus on implementing current improvements effectively while ensuring the system remains sustainable for future generations. As we move forward, the emphasis remains on choice, control, and community connection. Whether you're interested in co-living, smart homes, or traditional SDA with modern features, the key is finding housing that supports your individual goals and aspirations. The NDIS housing landscape of 2025 offers more options than ever before – the challenge now is navigating them effectively to find your perfect home. Ready to explore your NDIS housing options? Connect with [Sandi AI](https://sandi.app) for personalised guidance on navigating the latest housing models and funding opportunities available to you. ## References 1. [Courier Mail - Revealed: Urraween's $10m disability housing development plans](https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fraser-coast/business/revealed-urraweens-10m-disability-housing-development-plans/news-story/73064dcd9aeb52c3b4a4303a4ff2c6d8) 2. [NDIS - Quarterly Report Published March 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025) 3. [NDIS Guidelines - Stage 2 Individualised Living Option Supports](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/home-and-living-supports/individualised-living-options/how-do-we-decide-if-we-can-fund-individualised-living-option-and-how-much-support-you-need/stage-2-individualised-living-option-supports) 4. [NDIS - Pricing Updates](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements/pricing-updates) 5. [NDIS - Specialist Disability Accommodation](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation) 6. [NDIS - Individualised Living Options](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options) 7. [NDIS - Providing Assistive Technology](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/providing-assistive-technology) 8. [NDIS - SDA Pricing and Payments](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments) 9. [NDIS - Pricing Arrangements](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements) 10. [NDIS - Update on Co-design Approach](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10690-update-our-approach-co-design) 11. [NDIS Guidelines - Would We Fund It](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it) 12. [NDIS - Requesting Home and Living Supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/requesting-home-and-living-supports)

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Innovative NDIS Housing Models: Co-Living and Smart Homes 2025

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