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The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides Australians living with disability greater opportunities for independence, wellbeing, and improved quality of life.
However, one of the most important and difficult decisions NDIS participants need to make is choosing the type of support they need to meet their daily requirements and personal goals.
In 2025, NDIS providers in Adelaide continue to provide two main models of care, namely, community-based support and in-home support. Each of these services comes with its own set of benefits and limitations, and understanding them can help the participants and their families make informed decisions.
What Is In-Home Support?
In-home support services are provided directly to the NDIS participant's home. These may include the following:
- Help with personal care like grooming, bathing, dressing, and more.
- Preparing meals and helping them eat.
- Domestic chores like cleaning or laundry.
- Managing their medication intake.
- Overnight or 24-hour care.
For participants with high physical support needs or those who feel more secure in familiar surroundings, in-home support can offer consistency, comfort, and flexibility.
It also enables people to maintain routines that may be disrupted in external environments. Many older participants or those recently discharged from hospital find in-home assistance to be a practical stepping stone towards rebuilding independence.
What Is Community-Based Support?
Community-based support focuses on helping participants engage with the world around them. This support model encourages individuals to take part in social, educational, or recreational activities. These may include:
- Attending group day programmes or classes.
- Participating in supported employment.
- Volunteering in local initiatives.
- Going on community outings.
- Building life skills like using public transport or managing money.
Community-based support promotes social interaction, a sense of belonging, and improved mental well-being. For younger participants or those working towards independence and employment, this model offers valuable opportunities to gain confidence and connect with peers.
What Are The Key Factors To Take into Account When Comparing the Two?
While both types of support aim to improve quality of life, they serve different needs. Below are several factors to help clarify the differences:
1. Level of Personalisation
In-home care is typically more tailored, allowing for a one-on-one approach. Support workers adapt entirely to the participant’s preferences, from mealtimes to daily routines.
In contrast, community-based programmes tend to follow set schedules. While they still consider individual goals, they often involve group activities and shared support arrangements.
2. Social Interaction
Community-based support naturally encourages social participation, which can combat loneliness and build stronger communication skills.
In-home care, although consistent, may offer fewer opportunities for social connection unless participants actively engage in outside activities.
3. Funding and Affordability
NDIS plans are highly individual, and funding can be allocated to both types of support based on goals and assessments. In some cases, community-based options may be more cost-effective when delivered in group settings. However, transport to and from venues can add extra costs.
Participants should always consult their support coordinator or plan manager to ensure their funding is used efficiently.
4. Routine and Lifestyle
People who value familiar routines may prefer in-home support. On the other hand, those looking to develop life skills or become more independent might benefit from the structure and variety that community-based programmes offer.
What NDIS Providers in Adelaide Are Offering in 2025
In 2025, NDIS providers in Adelaide are embracing a more flexible and hybrid approach to care. Recognising that no two participants are the same, many providers now offer blended models.
Some of the common offerings in Adelaide include:
- Customised support plans are designed in collaboration with participants and their families.
- Mobile support workers accompany participants both at home and in the community.
- Transport services that safely connect individuals with group programmes and events.
- Digital platforms that allow participants to manage bookings, track outcomes, and communicate with their support team.
As the NDIS matures, providers are also investing in specialised training for support workers to deliver consistent quality care across different settings.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the NDIS landscape in Adelaide reflects a growing appreciation for individual choice.
Ultimately, the best support is the one that helps you live the life you want. If you're unsure where to begin, speak to local NDIS providers, ask questions, and explore your options. The right support is not just about where it’s delivered, but how it empowers you to thrive.