What is a SIL Home?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes are specially designed residences under the NDIS to support individuals who wish to live as independently as possible. These homes cater to the growing number of participants—approximately 400,000 people—who require support in managing daily tasks, fostering independence, and developing life skills.
Unlike Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes, which focus on the physical dwelling itself, SIL homes are centered around the support services provided. SIL is designed for individuals who need assistance or supervision with daily activities, ensuring they can live comfortably and autonomously while gaining essential life skills.
SIL homes are typically used in shared living arrangements, providing support to people who require ongoing assistance. These homes are built to the Liveable Housing Australia guidelines, featuring modifications that make life easier for individuals with disabilities. SIL homes closely resemble standard homes but come with specific adaptations to support residents’ needs.
NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL)
NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL) is more than just a service; it’s a pathway to independence, empowerment, and community involvement. SIL supports individuals who need assistance with daily tasks but are working towards greater autonomy. Through SIL Homes and SIL accommodation, participants can live in a comfortable home environment while receiving the necessary support for personal care, daily activities, and community engagement.
Below, you can find more information about SIL Housing.
What does supported independent living include?
If your supports meet NDIS funding criteria, SIL can include assistance with:
- Personal care tasks
- Skill-building in areas like meal preparation, cooking, cleaning, and establishing routines
- Implementing behavior support plans
- Developing social skills
- Supervision and personal safety
- Medication management
- Attending medical appointments
- Accessing the community for non-routine or personal tasks
- Transportation to and from community activities, such as hydrotherapy sessions or visiting family and friends
What does supported independent living not include?
SIL does not cover everyday living costs unrelated to your disability support needs, such as:
- Groceries
- Rent, board, or lodging
- Utilities (gas, electricity, water, telephone, internet)
- Vehicle costs
SIL also doesn’t cover supports not related to your disability, including:
- Household budgeting or bill payments
- Expenses for holidays, including travel costs
Additionally, SIL does not fund supports provided by other service systems, such as:
- Paid personal supports during hospital stays (covered by the health system)
- Paid personal supports while in custody or to implement community supervision orders (covered by the justice system)
- Nursing, medical, palliative care, and other health-related supports (not covered by NDIS)
How do you get supported independent living in your plan?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is just one type of home and living support. If you have a goal to explore home and living options, NDIS will gather information from you to help understand which supports best suit your needs.
NDIS will consider:
- Assessments of your disability support and housing needs
- Reports from allied health professionals
- Information about your daily support requirements
This helps NDIS better understand your current situation, strengths, barriers, and support needs. Don’t worry if you don’t have all this information right away—we’re here to help you figure it out.