I want
...to live on my own one day
Planning to live on your own one day? Explore clear, supportive steps for adults with disability, plus housing information and Novita’s independent living supports.
Wanting to live on your own one day is an exciting and empowering goal. It represents choice, control, privacy, and the chance to shape your life in a way that reflects who you are.
At the same time, thinking about moving out can feel overwhelming. Many people are unsure where to start, what supports they need, or how the housing and NDIS systems work. These worries are common and completely normal.
The good news is you do not need to solve these challenges by yourself.
Novita works with many adults who want to build independence and move into their own home.
We understand the systems, the paperwork, the planning, and the emotional side of this transition and we’re here to partner with you, step by step.
While exciting, moving out can also create new challenges.
These challenges are real, but they are also manageable with the right information, support, and planning. Building independence happens gradually, and every skill you learn now helps prepare you for the future.
Setting up electricity, internet, and water accounts may feel complicated if you have never done it before.
Learning how to budget, clean, shop, and maintain a home can take time.
If you are moving away from family support, you may wonder who will support you with tasks you have never had to manage on your own.
You may also be navigating new neighbourhoods, new transport routes, or new social environments.
Living on your own doesn’t happen overnight. It is a process, and you can begin preparing long before you move. Here are practical ideas you can start now, even while living with family, in shared accommodation, or in another supported environment.
Housing options include private rental, public housing, community housing, and NDIS options (if you are eligible).
Each pathway has different rules, waiting times, and costs. Reading simple guides, watching videos, and talking to knowledgeable people can help you understand what might work for you. A social worker or support coordinator can support you to explore these options and break them into smaller steps.
The NDIS can fund supports that help build independence, including skill-building, daily living support, capacity building, assistive technology, and sometimes housing supports.
If you are unsure what you are eligible for, speaking with a Novita support coordinator or social worker can make this much clearer.
They can also help you with plan reviews if you need extra supports before moving out.
Location matters. Think about how close you want to be to public transport, shops, medical services, libraries, gyms, and the people who support you.
You might want to be near work, your favourite café, or places that are important to your wellbeing.
Exploring suburbs, going through different areas, and looking at online maps can help you picture what life there might be like.
The skills you practise now will help you feel more confident later.
This may include planning meals, doing laundry, tidying shared spaces, cleaning the bathroom, or managing a simple budget.
You can try doing one small task each week until it feels comfortable, and then add more as you build confidence.
Moving requires organisation, even for people who have done it many times.
You can start by sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you no longer need. You might begin gathering basic household items, such as towels, sheets, cleaning products, or kitchen tools, slowly over time.
This way you don’t have to organise everything all at once when you move. Creating a folder with important documents can also help you feel prepared.
Talking to friends, family members, or peers about their experiences moving out can give you useful ideas and help you feel less alone.
Asking questions about what surprised them, what was difficult, or what they wish they knew can offer practical tips you may not find elsewhere.
Think about what will make your home comfortable and safe.
You may need wider doorways, a place without stairs, a quiet environment, a small yard, or space for support workers. You might prefer living alone, or with a trusted housemate.
Writing down what matters most to you can help you narrow down your options when you begin searching.
Affordability can be a challenge, especially with rising rents and limited housing options. A financial counsellor can help you understand budgeting, rent assistance, bill management, and long-term planning.
This can reduce stress and help you feel better prepared.
Even if you are not ready to apply yet, looking at properties online can help you understand what is available, what it costs, and what you like or don’t like.
Websites like realestate.com.au and housinghub.org.au are helpful places to start.
You can also browse all the vacancies that Novita has available.
Novita offers a wide range of supports to for adults preparing to live on their own. Whether you want practical skill-building, emotional support, home modifications, or support navigating systems, our team can work alongside you at every stage.
If you’re thinking about living on your own one day, you don’t need to take this journey alone.
Reach out when you feel ready. We’re here to support your independence — your way, at your pace.
