Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS-funded support that helps people with higher support needs live in their own home, with the right help around them. If you or someone you care for is wondering what SIL is, who it is for, and how it works day to day, this guide explains it in plain language.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
SIL is funding for the support a person receives while living in a shared or individual home. It pays for the help, not the house. Trained support workers assist with everyday tasks such as cooking, personal care, medication and getting to appointments, while helping you build skills and routines. Overall, the goal is to help you live as independently as possible, with consistent support always close by.
What does SIL support include?
- Help with daily living, such as cooking, cleaning and personal care
- Medication support and getting to appointments
- Building life skills, routines and confidence
- Support to take part in your community
- Overnight support where needed, either awake or sleepover
Who is Supported Independent Living for?
SIL is designed for people with higher or around-the-clock support needs, including people living with psychosocial disability. It suits those who want more independence than living with family or in care, but who need consistent daily support to do that safely. Ultimately, whether SIL is right for you depends on your goals and your assessed support needs.
How is Supported Independent Living funded by the NDIS?
SIL funding is based on your assessed reasonable and necessary support needs, as defined by the NDIS. It covers the support you receive, not your rent, utilities or food. Instead, those are paid separately as board and living costs. A support coordinator can help you understand what your plan includes and how to plan for both.
SIL and other NDIS housing options
SIL is often confused with other NDIS supports. In short, SIL pays for the support you receive at home, Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is about specially designed housing, and an Individual Living Option (ILO) is a tailored mix of formal and informal support. Many people use SIL on its own, while others combine it with SDA.
How to get started with SIL
So if you think SIL might suit you, the best first step is to talk with your support coordinator or an NDIS-registered provider. At Astute Living Care, our SIL homes in the Illawarra, in Dapto and Horsley, offer consistent, mental-health-informed support, and we carefully match housemates so you feel at home. Get in touch or make a referral to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does SIL pay for my rent?
No. SIL funding covers the support you receive, not your rent, utilities or food. Those are paid separately as everyday living costs.
Who qualifies for SIL?
SIL is for people with higher support needs, based on an NDIS assessment of what is reasonable and necessary for you. A support coordinator can help you understand whether it fits your situation.
Can I live on my own with SIL?
Yes. SIL can be provided in a shared home with housemates or in an individual living arrangement, depending on your needs and preferences.
How do I apply for SIL funding?
SIL is funded through your NDIS plan. In other words, it forms part of your overall plan budget. Your treating professionals and a support coordinator can help gather the evidence and put forward a request.
Does Astute Living Care offer SIL?
Yes. We provide Supported Independent Living in the Illawarra, in Dapto and Horsley, with consistent, mental-health-informed support and careful housemate matching. Contact us to ask about availability.
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