Imagine living in a home where you aren’t just a “client,” but part of the family.
For many NDIS participants in Sydney, the idea of a group home (SIL) doesn’t feel right. You might want more connection, more stability, and a home environment that feels… homely.
This is where the ILO “Host Arrangement” comes in. It is one of the most unique and rewarding ways to use your Independent Living Option (ILO) funding. But finding the right host in a city as big as Sydney can feel daunting.
At Nonabel Disability Services, we specialise in connecting participants with vetted, caring hosts across Western Sydney and beyond. If you are exploring this option, here is what you need to know.
What is an ILO Host Arrangement?
In this model, you live in the home of a “Host” (or they live in yours). A Host is not just a support worker who clocks off at 5 pm. They are a person—or a family—who welcomes you into their life. They provide:
- Companionship: Sharing meals, watching TV, or going to local events together.
- Safety & Support: Helping with daily tasks, emotional regulation, or overnight presence.
- A “Natural” Network: You become part of their community, meeting their friends and neighbours.
It is a relationship built on trust, not just a roster.
How to Find a Host in Sydney
You can’t just browse a catalogue for a host. The NDIS requires a careful matching process to ensure safety and compatibility. Here is how we handle it at Nonabel:
1. The “Vibe Check” (Matching)
We don’t match people based on age or gender alone. We look at lifestyle.
- Do you love pets? We find a host in Blacktown with a dog and a backyard.
- Do you prefer a quiet life? We look for a retired couple in the Blue Mountains.
- Do you love the city? We search for hosts near transport hubs in Parramatta.
2. The Safety Vetting
This is non-negotiable. Every Nonabel host undergoes a strict screening process, far more rigorous than a standard rental application. This includes:
- NDIS Worker Screening Checks.
- Police Checks.
- Home safety inspections (to ensure the property is accessible and safe).
- Deep reference checks to ensure they have the right temperament for hosting.
What Does the Host Get?
Transparency is key. Hosts are reimbursed for their time and the care they provide. This is funded through your ILO package. However, the NDIS does not pay for your rent or board. You (the participant) will still need to contribute your share of rent and utilities (usually from your Disability Support Pension), just like any other housemate.
Is Hosting Right for You?
Living with a host is amazing, but it requires a willingness to share your life.
- Pros: Consistency. You often have the same person supporting you every day. No rotating roster of strangers.
- Cons: You need to respect the house rules of the family you live with.
How Nonabel Helps You Build It
You don’t have to find a host on Gumtree. Nonabel acts as your ILO Provider. We manage the legal side, the payments, and the monitoring.
- Exploration: We get to know you and design your ideal living situation.
- Recruitment: We use our network to find potential hosts in your preferred Sydney suburbs.
- Trial: You might spend a few weekends with a host to see if you click before moving in.
- Ongoing Support: If issues arise, we are there to mediate and support both you and the host.
Ready to find your second family? If you have ILO funding (or want to apply for it) and are looking for a host arrangement in Sydney, contact Nonabel today. Let’s find you a place where you truly belong.
