What Are Improved Living Arrangements?
A safe and suitable home is one of the foundations of a good quality of life. For NDIS participants, the Improved Living Arrangements support category is designed to help you enjoy greater independence, expand your choices, and access housing that best fits your needs.
Unlike group homes or shared supported housing, individualised living arrangements can offer more flexibility and inclusion. They allow you to be integrated within your community, connect with informal supports, and make daily living more enjoyable and sustainable.
How to Get Improved Living Arrangements in Your NDIS Plan
To access funding under this Capacity Building support, you’ll need to set housing-related goals in your NDIS plan. A common example is the goal of moving to a new home that supports your independence.
When preparing your plan, consider:
Why you need to move – what’s not working in your current living situation.
How new housing will help – whether it improves independence, daily functioning, or quality of life.
Evidence from health professionals – a letter from your GP outlining your disability-related housing needs can strengthen your case.
By clearly explaining your goals and needs, you improve your chances of having Improved Living Arrangements funding included in your budget.
What Can You Use Improved Living Arrangements Funding For?
This support item is highly practical and can be used for a wide range of housing-related tasks. The goal is to help you find, obtain, and maintain housing.
1. Finding a Home
Identifying a rental budget that fits your income.
Searching rental listings or viewing homes.
Getting support with decision-making about where to live.
2. Securing Housing
Completing rental applications.
Collecting the necessary paperwork (e.g., proof of income).
Negotiating a lease that considers your disability needs.
Communicating with real estate agents or landlords.
3. Maintaining Tenancy
Managing communication with landlords.
Meeting ongoing rental obligations.
Support with neighbour relationships or tenancy-related stress.
This flexibility allows the support to be tailored to your individual needs—whether you require hands-on assistance or coaching to manage these steps independently.
What’s Not Covered Under Improved Living Arrangements
It’s important to know the limits of this funding.
Rent payments are not covered, as these are considered everyday living costs.
Household expenses like groceries, electricity, or water are also excluded.
However, if your disability requires specialised housing that costs more than standard rent, you may be able to access additional funding through other NDIS supports.
Price Limits and Service Inclusions
Like other NDIS supports, Improved Living Arrangements follow price limits set in the NDIS Price Guide. These are usually based on hourly rates of support workers.
The funding can be used flexibly for:
Face-to-face services.
Non-face-to-face supports (e.g., preparing paperwork).
Provider travel costs.
Last-minute cancellations.
Participant activity transport.
This ensures you can get the assistance you need at the right stage of your housing journey.
Final Thoughts
The NDIS Improved Living Arrangements support is designed to make housing more accessible, supportive, and sustainable for participants. From finding and applying for a rental, to maintaining tenancy and building community connections, this funding can give you the tools and support you need to live more independently.
If you’re planning your next NDIS review, consider whether improved housing should be one of your goals. The right home environment can significantly improve your quality of life.
Internal Links:
External Links:
By Complete Money Management
Your partner in navigating the NDIS with confidence.
www.completemoney.com.au