Co-Living Support Models for People With Disabilities
Co-living support arrangements are becoming an increasingly popular choice for NDIS participants who want to live more independently while staying connected to their community. Whether you're a young adult ready to leave the family home or someone seeking a more social and supported lifestyle, co-living can offer a practical, empowering path forward.
At EnableU, we help individuals across Ryde, Canada Bay, and Hunter’s Hill explore and access co-living options that match their preferences, needs, and goals.
What Is a Co-Living Support Model?
Co-living refers to a shared accommodation arrangement where two or more people with disability live together and receive support services. These homes may include:
- Independently rented or owned properties
- Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangements
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
The key feature is that each resident has choice and control over their support plan while sharing household responsibilities and costs in a cooperative environment.
Who Is Co-Living Suitable For?
This model works particularly well for:
- Young adults transitioning from the family home
- NDIS participants seeking greater autonomy
- Those who benefit from peer social interaction and shared experiences
- Participants looking for cost-effective, consistent in-home support
Each household is different — we match based on personality, support needs, cultural background, communication style, and more.
Support Types Available in Co-Living Settings
Depending on your NDIS plan and the household setup, EnableU can coordinate a wide range of services, including:
- 24/7 or scheduled personal care support
- Meal planning and preparation
- Community participation and transport
- Medication management
- Domestic assistance
- Overnight or sleepover support
- Behaviour support and allied health visits
Services can be tailored to individual goals while respecting shared routines and spaces.
Advantages of Co-Living Support
- Increased independence: Residents take ownership of daily decisions and lifestyle choices.
- Social inclusion: Peer relationships reduce isolation and build confidence.
- Shared support costs: Efficient use of resources often lowers individual expenses.
- Flexible service delivery: Plans can be adjusted without needing to relocate.
EnableU’s person-centred approach ensures that support evolves with your changing needs.
What to Consider Before Choosing Co-Living
It’s important to make an informed choice. Consider:
- How much privacy and independence you want
- How compatible your needs and routines are with potential housemates
- The availability of appropriate support staff
- Your long-term goals: is this a stepping stone or a permanent home?
- Whether SIL or SDA funding is appropriate for your needs
EnableU’s Co-Living Support Process
We offer full support to explore and transition into co-living:
- Initial discovery session: Understand your preferences, goals, and lifestyle.
- Options review: Explore existing opportunities or potential housemate matches.
- Funding navigation: Help request appropriate SIL, STA, or SDA supports through your plan.
- Transition support: Coordinate move-in, care planning, and allied health referrals.
- Ongoing review: Regular check-ins to ensure the arrangement remains positive and effective.
Real-Life Example: Aaron in Canada Bay
Aaron, 28, had been living with family but wanted more independence. EnableU helped him find a shared home with another participant who enjoyed cooking and socialising. They now receive coordinated care and share weekly activities, while having support staff who understand their individual goals.
Today, Aaron enjoys a better quality of life with autonomy, routine, and connection — all while achieving the goals he outlined in his NDIS plan.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Co-living can be life-changing — offering a blend of community, independence, and tailored support. Whether you're ready to move or just exploring what's possible, EnableU is here to help guide you through every step.
Contact your local EnableU team today to discuss co-living models and start building a support environment that works for you.