Supported Independent Living, often called SIL, is help with daily tasks in your home. It is generally for people who need a higher level of support across the day, overnight or at different times. The home may be shared with other participants or arranged differently, depending on your approved plan and living goals.
What SIL can help with
Your support should reflect your routines, communication, culture, relationships and personal goals. Depending on your plan and the service agreement, support may include:
- personal care and getting ready for the day
- meal planning, cooking and household routines
- taking medication in line with an agreed plan and worker scope
- building everyday skills and confidence at home
- support to attend appointments and take part in the community
- overnight support, where it is assessed and funded.
Your home and your choices
You should be involved in decisions about where you live, daily routines, visitors, privacy and—where a home is shared—who you live with. We discuss compatibility and support needs before a shared arrangement begins.
What SIL does not pay for
SIL is the support delivered in the home. It does not usually cover rent, groceries, utilities or ordinary living costs. Specialist Disability Accommodation, known as SDA, is a separate home and living support.
Planning a safe and comfortable start
Before support begins, we talk with the participant and people they choose to involve. We confirm current capacity, the level and timing of support, health or behaviour support plans, communication needs, household expectations and how concerns will be raised. Agreed arrangements are written in a service agreement and reviewed when needs or circumstances change.
Common questions
Is SIL the same as SDA?
No. SIL pays for support with daily life in the home. SDA relates to the physical design and cost of eligible specialist housing. A participant may have one, both or neither in their plan.
Can I choose my support provider?
Participant choice is important. Your options depend on your plan, the home arrangement, service agreements and provider capacity. Ask your planner or support coordinator if you need help understanding home and living choices.
General information only. Learn more from the NDIS guide to Supported Independent Living. Individual funding, eligibility and provider capacity must be confirmed.