ILO Host vs Housemate Arrangements
The NDIS describes host and housemate arrangements as two common ways an ILO primary support can be structured. The right fit depends on the participant’s preferred home, relationships, independence goals and the practical support arrangement.
A host arrangement
In a host arrangement, the participant lives full-time in the host’s home. The host is not a relative and is part of the participant’s primary support arrangement.
A housemate arrangement
In a housemate arrangement, the participant lives in their own home or a shared rental with another person or people who are not related to them. A housemate can form part of the primary support structure.
Think about compatibility as well as support
Daily routines, privacy, communication style, household expectations, visitors, pets, transport, shared spaces and personal boundaries can be just as important as the formal support tasks.
Agreements matter
Clear agreements should describe roles, expectations, responsibilities, payments where relevant, privacy, household boundaries, problem-solving and what happens if the arrangement needs to change.
Plan back-up support
Primary supports are not expected to solve every situation alone. Supplementary supports and a clear back-up plan are important parts of a sustainable ILO arrangement.
Helpful related pages
Continue with the guide or service page that best matches the home-and-living decision you are working through.
Official NDIS information used for this guide
NDIS rules and terminology can change. These official pages are useful for checking the latest position.
Important: This AIC Services guide is general information, not an NDIS funding decision, clinical advice, housing advice, financial advice or legal advice. Participants should check their current plan and official NDIS information for their circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Does a host have to be related to the participant?
No. The NDIS describes an ILO host as someone who is not related to the participant.
Can an ILO housemate live in a shared rental?
Yes. The NDIS describes housemate arrangements that can operate in the participant’s own home or a shared rental property.
Is a host or housemate automatically a support worker?
The role depends on the approved ILO arrangement and agreements. The arrangement should clearly define what support is expected and what supplementary supports are also available.
Contact AIC Services
AIC Services
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Moonah, TAS 7009
Phone:
1300 023 456
Email:
support@aicservices.com.au
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54 Main Road, Moonah TAS 7009
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