What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL) in the NDIS?
When living independently feels out of reach, Supported Independent Living (SIL) offers the tools, support, and structure to make that goal a reality — all while maintaining dignity, choice, and community connection.
Whether you’re a person with disability, a carer, or a family member, understanding what SIL is and how it fits into the NDIS can feel confusing. But it doesn’t have to be.
In this guide, we break it down — what SIL means, who it’s for, what it includes, and how you can access it through your NDIS plan.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a type of NDIS support that helps people with disability live more independently, usually in a shared home environment. SIL provides assistance with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care, while still allowing participants to live as autonomously as possible.
SIL is most commonly funded for people who:
Require 24/7 support or supervision
Have higher support needs
Prefer to live in a shared home with other NDIS participants
It’s not about taking over — it’s about empowering participants to live their own life with the right level of daily assistance.
How is SIL Different from Other NDIS Home & Living Supports?
The NDIS funds several types of home and living supports, and it’s easy to get them confused. Here's how SIL stands apart:
SIL vs SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)
SIL funds the supports you receive in a home
SDA funds the actual home or dwelling (the bricks and mortar)
You can receive SIL in an SDA home, but they are separate supports.
SIL vs ILO (Individualised Living Options)
SIL is more structured and often involves shared living with 24/7 support
ILO is more flexible and usually suits those with lower support needs or informal supports already in place
SIL suits people who need ongoing, rostered care, while ILO is more suited to informal, tailored arrangements.
Who is SIL For?
SIL is generally designed for adults with significant support needs who can’t live independently without daily assistance. That includes:
People with intellectual or cognitive disabilities
Individuals with physical impairments requiring hands-on daily support
Those with psychosocial disabilities needing structured support in a safe environment
To be eligible for SIL funding in your NDIS plan, you’ll need to demonstrate that SIL is a “reasonable and necessary” support for you based on your individual circumstances.
What Does SIL Support Actually Look Like?
SIL support can vary based on your needs, goals, and living situation. But in general, it may include:
Daily Living Assistance
Help with personal care (showering, dressing, toileting)
Meal preparation and cooking
Medication reminders or management
Support with household chores (cleaning, laundry)
24/7 Supervision or On-Call Support
Depending on your plan, support workers may be:
On-site around the clock
Rostering in shifts to provide full coverage
On-call overnight for emergencies
Skill-Building and Independence
SIL isn’t just about support — it’s about growth. That includes help with:
Budgeting and money management
Travel training
Developing social and communication skills
Planning and attending community activities
Where Do You Live When You Receive SIL?
Most SIL participants live in shared homes with two to three other people who also receive SIL support. These homes are often arranged through NDIS-registered providers, who:
Organise the home setup
Provide the rostered support workers
Ensure the environment is safe and suited to each participant
Can You Receive SIL in Your Own Home?
In some cases, yes — if you already have a home that’s suitable and the NDIS deems it appropriate for your level of support, you can receive SIL in your own dwelling.
How to Get SIL Funded in Your NDIS Plan
SIL is considered a Complex Support, and funding is not automatic. You’ll need to go through the following steps:
Step 1: Functional Assessment
An occupational therapist or allied health professional will complete a functional assessment and Support Needs Report that outlines why SIL is reasonable and necessary for you.
Step 2: Home & Living Supporting Evidence
You or your provider will submit the NDIS Home and Living Supporting Evidence Form, along with any reports and documentation to support the request.
Step 3: NDIS Decision
The NDIA will assess your needs and determine whether SIL is the most appropriate support. If approved, it will be added to your NDIS plan under Core Supports.
SIL with ProCare Solution
At ProCare Solution, we believe that Supported Independent Living should feel like home — safe, empowering, and tailored to your goals.
We offer:
Shared home placements with like-minded participants
Experienced support workers trained in person-centred care
Help with SIL funding applications and assessments
A commitment to making the transition to independent living as smooth as possible
Whether you’re exploring SIL for the first time or looking to move into a new home, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts: Is SIL Right for You?
If you or someone you care for needs structured, ongoing support to live safely and independently, SIL could be the right NDIS support to explore. It’s not just about the assistance you receive — it’s about creating a home where you can learn, grow, and feel like yourself.
At ProCare Solution, we help participants navigate the SIL process from start to finish — from understanding eligibility to moving into a supported home that meets your goals and lifestyle.
Key Summary
Supported Independent Living (SIL) helps people with disability live more independently with daily support.
SIL is suited to people with higher support needs, often in shared living environments.
It includes assistance with personal care, cooking, cleaning, medication, and skill development.
SIL is different from housing support (SDA) and informal arrangements (ILO).
ProCare Solution offers SIL homes and expert support to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Ready to Explore SIL With ProCare?
We’re here to help you every step of the way — from eligibility to moving into your new home. Get in touch with ProCare Solution today to learn how Supported Independent Living can change your life.
Contact us or via our contact page to speak with a real person who understands your journey.
