Understanding Supported Independent Living (SIL)

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the highest-funded NDIS support categories, designed to help people with significant disability live as independently as possible in their own home. If you or a loved one is considering SIL, here’s what you need to know.

What Is SIL?

SIL provides participants with the help they need to complete daily living tasks in a shared or individual living arrangement. Unlike drop-in support (which is scheduled visits), SIL involves support workers being present in the home around the clock — typically on a 24/7 roster.

SIL is about empowerment, not dependence. The goal is to help participants develop skills and routines that increase their independence over time, while ensuring they have the support they need to stay safe and healthy.

What Does SIL Include?

SIL funding covers the cost of support workers to assist with:

• Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
• Meal planning and preparation
• Household tasks (cleaning, laundry, home maintenance)
• Medication management and health support
• Building daily living skills and routines
• Social interaction and community connection
• Overnight support (active or sleepover)

It’s important to note that SIL funding covers the support, not the housing itself. Accommodation is either funded separately through Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or the participant pays reasonable rent.

Who Is Eligible for SIL?

SIL is generally for participants who need significant daily support and can demonstrate that shared or individual supported living is the best option to achieve their goals. Eligibility typically involves:

• Having an NDIS plan with SIL funding approved
• A functional assessment showing the level of support needed
• Demonstration that SIL is the most appropriate and cost-effective option
• A willingness to work towards increased independence

How Does SIL Work at Asina?

At Asina Disability Support, we operate SIL homes in Armidale where participants share a home with compatible housemates. Our support workers are carefully selected and trained to provide genuine, person-centred care. We develop individual support plans for each resident that focus on their unique goals, preferences, and routines.

We currently have SIL vacancies in Armidale — if you or someone you know is looking for a supported living arrangement, we’d love to have a conversation.

Getting Started with SIL

The process typically starts with a conversation. We’ll discuss the participant’s needs, visit our available properties, and work with support coordinators to ensure everything aligns with the NDIS plan. Call us on 1300 851 190 or submit a referral to get started.