Building Independence: Tips for NDIS Participants Living With Others

Living with others is one of the most common NDIS accommodation arrangements. Whether you share with housemates, live in supported housing, or stay somewhere short term while planning your next step, shared living can still support independence, confidence and control. What matters most is not whether you live alone, but whether your accommodation supports your goals, routines and sense of choice. 

Finding the right NDIS accommodation is often easier when you can see what is available in one place. That is where using the MySolas Accommodation Finder can help you explore options at your own pace, without pressure. 

Independence can still thrive in shared living 

Independence looks different for everyone. For many individuals living with a disability, independence is about having choice in daily life, building skills over time and feeling respected in your own space. 

Living with others in shared accommodation does not take that away. In fact, shared accommodation can support disability and independent living when the environment is right, and the supports are matched to your needs. 

What independence can look like in shared accommodation 

• Having your own private space within the home 
   
• Being involved in household decisions that affect you 
   
• Choosing how and when supports are provided 
   
• Building everyday skills with the right level of assistance 

Exploring different accommodation styles through the MySolas Accommodation navigator can help you see how these elements come together in real homes, not just on paper. 

Practical tips for living well with others 

Sharing a home means sharing spaces, routines, and responsibilities. While that can feel like an adjustment, small strategies can help shared living feel more comfortable and empowering. 

Setting expectations early 

Clear communication helps everyone feel at ease. This includes shared spaces, quiet times and how supports move through the home. Feeling heard in these conversations supports your independence. 

Keeping your routines intact 

Your daily routines matter. Even in shared accommodation, having control over how you start and end your day helps maintain balance and confidence. 

Using supports to build confidence 

Supports work best when they help you grow. Whether it is learning to cook, managing household tasks, or planning your week, shared living can offer opportunities to build skills safely. 

Knowing when to review your options 

If something is not working, it is okay to reassess. Accommodation is not permanent by default, and exploring new vacancies through the MySolas Accommodation can be part of taking control. 

Finding the right place for you 

One of the most common questions people ask is how to find accommodation that genuinely fits. The answer usually starts with seeing what is available and understanding your choices. 

The MySolas Accommodation tool brings together current vacancies from a range of NDIS accommodation providers. This makes it easier to explore shared living options based on your location, preferences, and support needs. 

Instead of relying on limited referrals or outdated information, you can view accommodation options when it suits you and come back to them as your situation changes. 

Flexibility as your needs change 

Your accommodation needs today may not be the same in a year or two. NDIS shared living is designed to be flexible. 

You might begin in NDIS short term accommodation, move into NDIS medium term accommodation, or later explore specialist disability accommodation. Independence grows over time, and your living arrangements can grow with you. 

Having ongoing access to an accommodation tool means you can revisit your options whenever you need to, rather than feeling locked into one decision. 

Questions people often ask about shared living 

Many people worry that shared accommodation limits independence. In reality, the right shared environment often increases independence by providing structure, consistency, and opportunities to build confidence. 

Others ask whether they can choose where they live. In many cases, you can review vacancies, learn about the home, and understand the support model before deciding, which helps you feel informed and confident in your choice. 

There are also questions about the length of stay. Some accommodation is designed to be short term, while other options support longer-term living. Exploring listings through the MySolas accomodation finder helps clarify what each option offers. 

Using MySolas to navigate accommodation choices 

Finding accommodation should not feel overwhelming. MySolas is designed to support you as a navigator, not to tell you what to choose. The Accommodation Finder brings together NDIS accommodation providers, shared living options and vacancies in one accessible place. 

You can explore, compare and revisit accommodation options as your needs change. This supports choice, clarity and confidence throughout your NDIS journey. 

Take the next step when you are ready 

Building independence while living with others is achievable and common. With the right NDIS accommodation, shared living can support stability, growth and a stronger sense of control over your life. 

If you are ready to explore what is available, create your free MySolas account today. It’s 100% free for NDIS participants and families, and designed to help you find trusted NDIS services with confidence.