What Is SIL? A Guide for NDIS Families
How SIL works, who it's for, and how to get started in Sydney or on the Central Coast
Moving out of the family home is a big step for anyone. For a person with disability, and for the parents and carers who love them, it can feel even bigger. Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the NDIS supports designed to make that step possible, safely and at the right pace.
What is SIL?
Supported Independent Living is help with, or supervision of, everyday tasks so a person with disability can live as independently as possible in a shared home. SIL pays for the support workers, not the house itself. It is funded through the Core Supports part of an NDIS plan.
Depending on a person's needs, SIL can include support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including active overnight or sleepover support. The aim is not only to help with daily tasks but also to build skills, so the person can do more for themselves over time.
What does SIL support look like day to day?
- Personal care, such as showering, dressing and grooming
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Cleaning, laundry and keeping the home tidy
- Managing medication and following health care plans
- Building routines, budgeting and other life skills
- Getting out into the community and keeping up with friends, work or study
Who is SIL for?
SIL is usually for participants who need a higher level of support at home, often most of the day, and who live with other people in a shared house. It can suit people with disabilities leaving school or the family home, people moving out of hospital or aged care, and people whose current living arrangement is no longer working.
SIL is not the only option. Some participants are better supported by Individualised Living Options (ILO), drop-in support in their own home, or Short Term Accommodation (STA) while they try out living away from home. A good provider will talk through all of these with you.
What does SIL not cover?
SIL does not pay for rent, groceries, utilities or other everyday living costs. These are usually paid by the resident, often from the Disability Support Pension. If a participant needs a specially designed home, that may be funded separately through Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
How do you get SIL in your NDIS plan?
- Talk to your support coordinator or NDIS planner about your home and living goals.
- Gather evidence of your support needs, such as reports from an occupational therapist and other health professionals.
- The NDIA may ask for a Home and Living supports request before deciding on funding.
- Once funding is approved, choose a SIL provider and agree on a roster of support that fits your needs.
Because the rules and processes can change, we always recommend checking the latest information on the NDIS website or with your support coordinator.
How Passion Flower Care can help
Passion Flower Disability Care is a family-founded, NDIS registered provider. Our story began with our own son, who has level 3 Autism, so we understand how much trust it takes to hand over the care of someone you love.
We provide Supported Independent Living and Assistance in Shared Living across Sydney and the Central Coast, including support for people with complex and high intensity care needs. Every roster is built around the person, their goals and their health care plans.
Get in touch
If you or someone you care about is looking for NDIS support in Sydney or the Central Coast, call us on 0448 402 108 or make a referral to talk about your support needs. We'd be happy to arrange a chat.
