1. The “Housemate Compatibility” Test

Why it’s critical:

The people you live with will define your daily happiness and comfort. A bad match can be stressful and isolating, while good matches create supportive home environments.

Questions to Ask:

• “What is your process for matching housemates? Do you consider age, interests, and support needs?”
• “Can I meet my potential housemates before making a decision?”
• “What is the process for resolving a conflict between residents?”

2. Staff Qualifications and Retention

Why it’s critical:

A revolving door of new staff makes it impossible to build trust and routine. Consistent, qualified support workers are essential for quality care.

Questions to Ask:

• “What is your staff-to-resident ratio during the day? At night?”
• “What are the minimum qualifications for your support workers?”
• “What is your annual staff turnover rate? How long has the current house manager been here?”

3. The “Person-Centred” Reality Check

Why it’s critical:

Every provider says they are “person-centred,” but you need to see proof in their daily practices and approach to individual goals.

Questions to Ask:

• “My goal is [e.g., ‘to learn to cook’]. Can you give me a specific example of how you would support me in achieving that goal?”
• “How much control do I have over my daily routine, like what time I wake up, eat meals, and go out?”
• “How do you adapt my supports as my skills and goals change?”

4. Total Cost & Funding Transparency

Why it’s critical:

You need to know exactly what is covered by your NDIS plan and what is paid out-of-pocket to avoid unexpected financial stress.

Questions to Ask:

• “Can I see a full breakdown of costs?”
• “What costs are not covered by my SIL NDIS funding?” (e.g., rent, utilities, food).
• “How are shared household costs, like groceries, managed and divided?”

5. House Rules, Safety, and Emergencies

Why it’s critical:

You must know the plan for when things go wrong, not just when they go right. Clear safety protocols ensure your wellbeing.

Questions to Ask:

• “What are the ‘house rules’ regarding visitors, noise, and shared spaces?”
• “What is your procedure for handling a medical emergency at 2 AM?”
• “What happens if a support worker doesn’t show up for their shift?”

6. Communication and Feedback

Why it’s critical:

A provider who makes it hard to complain is a major red flag. Open communication channels are essential for addressing concerns.

Questions to Ask:

• “If I have a problem or complaint, what is the exact process?”
• “How do you communicate with my family or support coordinator?”
• “How often are formal progress meetings held?”

7. Location, Accessibility, and Community Access

Why it’s critical:

The house must support your lifestyle and goals, not just be a place to sleep. Location affects your independence and community participation.

Questions to Ask:

• “Is the home close to public transport, shops, and my medical appointments?”
• “Does the physical building have the accessibility features I need?” (e.g., ramps, accessible bathroom).
• “How do you support participants to access community activities, hobbies, or volunteering?”

8. NDIS Registration and Specialisations

Why it’s critical:

This confirms they meet national quality and safety standards and have expertise relevant to your specific needs.

Questions to Ask:

• “Are you a registered NDIS provider?”
• “Do your staff have specialised training for my specific needs (e.g., complex behaviours, mental health, PEG feeding)?”
• “How do you ensure staff maintain their skills and knowledge?”

9. The “Home” vs. “House” Test

Why it’s critical:

This is a gut check. You need to visit the property in person to ensure it feels like a home rather than an institution.

What to Look For:

• Does it feel like a home, or does it feel like a clinical facility?
• Are the current residents happy and comfortable? Do they seem to have a good rapport with the staff?
• Can I decorate my own room and have my own belongings?

10. The Exit Strategy

Why it’s critical:

Knowing how to leave a service is just as important as knowing how to enter. A clear exit process protects your rights and ensures smooth transitions.

Questions to Ask:

• “What is the notice period if this arrangement doesn’t work out?”
• “What support will you provide to help me transition to a new provider?”
• “How do you handle the transfer of my records and information?”