What is SIL in NDIS?

SIL stands for Supported Independent Living. It's an NDIS funding option that helps people with disabilities live more independently. With SIL, you get daily support from trained workers who help you with everyday tasks in your own home.

Think of SIL as having a support team available to help you live your life the way you want. The support workers help with things like cooking, cleaning, personal care, and building life skills.

Learn more about SIL from NDIS

How Does SIL Work?

SIL provides assistance with daily living activities. Support workers come to your home to help you with:

• Personal care - bathing, dressing, grooming
• Household tasks - cooking meals, cleaning, laundry
• Medication management - remembering and taking medications
• Money skills - budgeting and shopping
• Social activities - joining community events, making friends
• Building life skills - learning to do more things independently

The key difference with SIL is that you get ongoing daily support, not just a few hours per week. Many SIL arrangements include support available 24/7, though this doesn't mean constant supervision.

What SIL Funding Covers

NDIS pays for:

• Support worker wages
• Training and supervision of staff
• Help with daily tasks and personal care
• Skill-building activities
• Support coordination

You pay for:

• Rent (usually from your pension and Commonwealth Rent Assistance)
• Groceries and food
• Electricity, gas, and water bills
• Phone and internet
• Entertainment and hobbies
• Personal items

Understanding NDIS funding

Who Can Get SIL?

Basic Requirements

To be eligible for SIL funding, you must:

1. Already be an NDIS participant with an active plan
2. Be under 65 years old when you first join NDIS
3. Have significant support needs requiring help 8+ hours per day
4. Need support overnight or at unpredictable times
5. Have a permanent disability that affects daily living

Who SIL Suits Best

SIL works well for people who:

• Have intellectual disabilities
• Need help with most daily activities
• Require overnight supervision or assistance
• Can't live independently without paid support
• Want to live in their own home (not with family)
• Have complex support needs

SIL may not be right if you only need a few hours of support per week. In that case, regular support workers or Individualised Living Options (ILO) might suit you better.

Types of SIL Living Arrangements

Shared Living

Most SIL arrangements involve shared housing where 2-7 people with disabilities live together. Each person has their own bedroom, and common areas like kitchens and living rooms are shared.

Benefits of shared living:

• Built-in social connections and friendships
• More cost-effective support ratios
• Shared household responsibilities
• Community within your home

Individual Living

Some people receive SIL support in their own apartment or unit. This costs more because support workers only focus on one person, but it offers maximum privacy and independence.

SIL in SDA Homes

You can receive SIL support in a Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home. Remember:

• SDA = the building (specially designed accommodation)
• SIL = the support (the help you receive)

These are separate types of funding, and you need to apply for each one individually.

The SIL Application Process: Step by Step

Getting SIL funding takes time and patience. The process typically takes 6-12 months from start to finish. Here's what to expect:

Step 1: Talk to Your NDIS Planner

During your NDIS planning meeting, tell your planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) that you're interested in SIL. Explain:

• Why you need daily support
• What tasks you need help with
• Your living goals and preferences
• Why other options won't work for you

Be honest and detailed about your needs. The more information you provide, the better.

Step 2: Get a Support Coordinator

A support coordinator helps you navigate the SIL process. They:

• Connect you with assessment services
• Help you find SIL providers
• Guide you through paperwork
• Advocate for your needs

Ask your planner to include support coordination in your NDIS plan if you don't already have it.

Step 3: Complete Assessments

You'll need professional assessments to prove you need SIL. The most important is an Occupational Therapy (OT) assessment.

The OT will:

• Visit your current home
• Watch how you complete daily tasks
• Test your abilities and needs
• Write a detailed report for NDIS
• Recommend the level of support you need

This assessment usually takes 2-4 hours and costs between $1,000-$2,500. NDIS typically funds this through your Capacity Building budget.

You'll also need:

• Medical reports from your doctors
• Reports from other therapists or specialists
• Evidence showing how your disability affects daily life
• Information about your current support arrangements

Step 4: Find a SIL Provider

Start researching registered NDIS providers who offer SIL in your area. Your support coordinator can help with this.

Questions to ask providers:

• What types of disabilities do you specialize in?
• Where are your SIL homes located?
• What's your staff-to-resident ratio?
• Can I tour your properties?
• How long is your waiting list?
• What's your approach to support?
• Do you offer active support and skill building?

Visit multiple providers before making a decision. Trust your gut feeling about where you'd feel comfortable living.

Step 5: The Roster of Care

Your chosen provider creates a Roster of Care - a detailed plan showing:

• What support you need each day
• When you need support (morning, afternoon, night)
• How many support workers you need
• Specific tasks workers will help with
• How support is shared among residents (if in shared housing)

This roster forms the basis of your SIL funding calculation. It must be realistic and match your actual needs.

Step 6: Provider Submits Quote

Based on the Roster of Care, your provider calculates the cost of supporting you and submits a quote to NDIS. Unlike other NDIS supports, SIL doesn't have a fixed price - it's customized to your needs.

The provider usually handles this submission process. You just need to review and approve the documents before they're sent.

Step 7: NDIS Reviews Your Application

NDIS assesses whether SIL is "reasonable and necessary" for you. They check:

• Do the assessments show you need this level of support?
• Is SIL the best option, or would something else work?
• Is the cost reasonable for the support provided?
• Does SIL align with your goals?

This review can take several months. NDIS might request additional information during this time.

Step 8: Approval and Moving In

If approved, NDIS adds SIL funding to your plan. You'll see two new service bookings:

1. Annual SIL support - your regular daily support
2. Irregular supports - for unexpected or one-off needs

Your provider will create service agreements, and you can set a move-in date. Many providers offer transition support to help you settle in.

Watch: Understanding the SIL application process

What if My SIL Application is Rejected?

If NDIS denies your SIL request, you have options:

1. Ask for an internal review - Request NDIS reconsider their decision
2. Get more evidence - Obtain additional assessments or reports
3. Apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) - Take your case to an independent tribunal
4. Get help from an advocate - Disability advocates can support you through appeals

Don't give up. Many people succeed on their second or third attempt with better evidence.

NDIS appeals and reviews

How Much Does SIL Cost?

SIL costs vary widely depending on your needs. Factors affecting cost include:

• How many hours of support you need daily
• Your support ratio (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, etc.)
• Whether you need overnight or 24/7 support
• The complexity of your needs
• Your location (remote areas cost more)

Average annual SIL funding ranges from $60,000 to $350,000+ per participant. High support needs can cost even more.

The NDIS Pricing Arrangements 2025-26 set maximum prices providers can charge. From July 1, 2025, prices increased by 3.95%.

Understanding Your Financial Responsibilities

While NDIS pays for support, you pay for living costs:

Your weekly expenses typically include:

• Rent: $150-$350 per week (varies by location and property)
• Groceries: $100-$200 per week
• Utilities: $20-$40 per week (your share)
• Personal items and entertainment: $50-$100+ per week

Most people use their Disability Support Pension and Commonwealth Rent Assistance to cover these costs.

Choosing the Right SIL Provider

Your SIL provider makes a huge difference to your quality of life. Take time to choose carefully.

What to Look For

Quality indicators:

• Registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
• Experienced with your type of disability
• Well-trained and qualified staff
• Low staff turnover (consistent workers)
• Positive reviews from current participants
• Clean, well-maintained properties
• Person-centered approach to support
• Active support philosophy

Red flags:

• Pressure to sign agreements quickly
• Unwilling to let you tour properties
• No clear complaints process
• Restrictive rules and limited choice
• Poor maintenance of homes
• Current residents seem unhappy
• High staff turnover

Visiting SIL Homes

Always tour potential homes before committing. During your visit:

• Observe how staff interact with residents
• Check cleanliness and maintenance
• Look at the bedroom you'd have
• Ask current residents about their experiences
• Check proximity to shops, transport, and services
• Trust your feelings about the environment

Bring a family member, friend, or advocate with you for a second opinion.

Living with SIL: Daily Life

What to Expect

Your typical day with SIL support might include:

Morning:

• Support worker helps you wake up and get ready
• Assistance with breakfast
• Medication reminders
• Planning the day's activities

Daytime:

• Support for work, day programs, or activities
• Help with appointments
• Skill-building activities
• Community outings

Evening:

• Dinner preparation support
• Help with evening routines
• Social time with housemates
• Winding down for bed

Overnight:

• Support worker available if needed
• Help with bathroom visits
• Assistance if you wake up
• Emergency support

Building Your Independence

Good SIL providers use active support - an approach that helps you do as much as possible yourself, with workers providing just enough help.

Over time, you should:

• Learn new skills
• Do more tasks independently
• Make more decisions yourself
• Participate in your community more
• Build confidence

Your Roster of Care should be reviewed regularly and adjusted as you become more independent.

Social Life and Community

Living in SIL doesn't mean giving up your social life. You can:

• Have visitors anytime (it's your home!)
• Go out with friends and family
• Maintain relationships
• Date and have relationships
• Join clubs and community groups
• Work or study
• Pursue hobbies and interests

Your support workers can help arrange and attend activities with you.

Your Rights in SIL

You have important rights as an SIL participant:

Core Rights

• Choice and control - You decide how you live and who supports you
• Dignity and respect - Support workers must treat you with respect
• Privacy - You have a right to private space and confidential information
• Safety - You must be safe from harm, abuse, and neglect
• Freedom - You can come and go as you please (within reason)
• Relationships - You can have friends, visitors, and relationships
• Independence - Support should increase your independence, not create dependence

Service Agreements

Before receiving SIL, you'll sign a service agreement with your provider. This legal document outlines:

• Services the provider will deliver
• Your responsibilities
• Provider responsibilities
• Fees and charges
• How to make complaints
• How to end the agreement
• Notice periods

Read this carefully before signing. Get help from an advocate or support coordinator if you don't understand something.

Understanding service agreements

Problems and Complaints

If Things Go Wrong

Issues can arise in any SIL arrangement. Common problems include:

• Staff not showing up
• Poor quality support
• Conflicts with housemates
• Privacy violations
• Safety concerns
• Dissatisfaction with provider

What to do:

1. Talk to your support worker - Raise concerns immediately
2. Contact the provider's manager - Escalate if problems continue
3. Document everything - Keep records of incidents and conversations
4. Use the complaints process - Providers must have an official process
5. Contact NDIS Commission - If provider doesn't resolve issues

Make a complaint to NDIS Commission

Abuse and Neglect

If you experience abuse, neglect, or exploitation:

• Call 000 if you're in immediate danger
• Contact NDIS Commission - 1800 035 544
• Tell someone you trust - Family, friend, or advocate
• Get help from a disability advocate - They can support you

You have the right to be safe. Don't ignore warning signs.

Changing Providers

You can change SIL providers if you're unhappy. The process involves:

1. Finding a new provider
2. Giving notice to current provider (check your agreement)
3. Arranging transition support
4. Moving to your new home

Your support coordinator can help manage this process.

SIL vs Other NDIS Options

SIL vs SDA

Many people confuse these two:

SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation):

• Funding for the building/house
• Specially designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs
• Covers rent above the basic price
• Harder to qualify for

SIL (Supported Independent Living):

• Funding for support workers
• Covers help with daily living
• Available to more people
• Can be used in any home (not just SDA)

You can have SIL without SDA, or SDA without SIL, or both together.

Learn more about SDA

SIL vs ILO (Individualised Living Options)

ILO offers more flexibility than traditional SIL:

SIL:

• Established group homes
• Shared living common
• Standardized support models
• Fixed arrangements
• Easier to access (more providers)

ILO:

• Customized living arrangements
• You choose where and with whom you live
• Mix of paid and unpaid support
• More control and flexibility
• Requires more planning and coordination

ILO might suit you if you want maximum control but still need daily support.

Understanding ILO

SIL vs Regular Support Workers

Regular support workers provide scheduled support for specific hours:

• Drop-in visits (few hours per week)
• Help with specific tasks
• Not available 24/7
• Good for lower support needs
• More independence required

SIL provides comprehensive daily support:

• Ongoing presence and availability
• 24/7 support possible
• Accommodation-based
• For higher support needs
• More intensive assistance

Plan Reviews and Changes

Annual NDIS Plan Reviews

Your NDIS plan is reviewed every 12 months. Before your review:

• Think about how SIL is working
• Note what's going well and what isn't
• Consider if your needs have changed
• Prepare evidence if you need more support
• Talk to your support coordinator

SIL funding usually continues automatically if your needs haven't changed significantly.

Requesting Plan Changes

You can request an unscheduled plan review if:

• Your health or needs change significantly
• Your support isn't working
• You're not getting enough support
• Your circumstances change dramatically

Provide evidence from professionals to support your request.

Updating Your Roster of Care

As your needs change, your Roster of Care should be updated. This might happen if you:

• Develop new skills (need less support)
• Have a health decline (need more support)
• Change daily routines
• Start work or education
• Change goals

Work with your provider to update the roster, then submit it to NDIS for approval and funding adjustment.

Tips for SIL Success

Before You Start

Prepare thoroughly:

• Research SIL extensively
• Visit multiple providers
• Talk to current SIL participants
• Understand all costs involved
• Discuss with family and friends
• Set realistic expectations
• Start the process early (it takes time)

During the Application

Stay organized:

• Keep copies of all documents
• Follow up regularly
• Meet all deadlines
• Respond quickly to requests for information
• Work closely with your support coordinator
• Be patient but persistent

After Moving In

Set yourself up for success:

• Give yourself time to adjust (3-6 months is normal)
• Communicate openly with support workers
• Build relationships with housemates
• Participate in house meetings
• Share concerns early before they become big problems
• Stay connected with family and friends
• Keep working on your goals

Common Questions About SIL

Can I live alone with SIL?

Yes, but it's more expensive because support workers focus only on you. Most people share living arrangements to make support more affordable and to have built-in social connections.

Can I choose my housemates?

This depends on the provider and circumstances. Some providers help match compatible people. Others have existing houses where you join current residents. Ask providers about their matching process.

What if I don't get along with housemates?

Talk to your provider about conflicts. They can mediate issues or, if necessary, help you move to a different house or find a new provider.

Can my partner live with me in SIL?

If both partners have NDIS plans with SIL funding, you can potentially live together. If only one person has SIL, it's more complicated and depends on the provider's policies.

Can I have pets in SIL?

This varies by provider and property. Many SIL homes allow pets, but you're responsible for all pet care and costs. Check with providers about their pet policies.

What happens during holidays?

You can go on holidays! Your support can continue with you, or providers may arrange vacation support. Discuss travel with your provider in advance. Some funding may be available for support during holidays.

Can I work or study while in SIL?

Absolutely! SIL should support your employment and education goals. Support workers can help you get ready for work, manage your schedule, and build work skills.

What if the provider goes out of business?

If your provider closes, NDIS works with you to find a new provider. Your funding continues, and you won't be left without support. Transition assistance is provided.

How long can I stay in SIL?

There's no time limit. SIL is intended as a long-term support option. You can stay as long as you need this level of support.

Important Resources and Contacts

NDIS Contacts

• NDIS General Enquiries: 1800 800 110
• NDIS Website: www.ndis.gov.au
• NDIS myplace Portal: www.myplace.ndis.gov.au

NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission

• Phone: 1800 035 544
• Website: www.ndiscommission.gov.au
• Make a complaint: Online complaint form

Advocacy Services

• Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA): www.dana.org.au
• Find an advocate: Search by state/territory

Finding Providers

• Provider Finder: NDIS Provider Finder tool
• myplace Provider Search: Search registered providers in your area

Support and Information

• National Disability Services: www.nds.org.au
• Carers Australia: 1800 242 636
• Summer Foundation (housing expertise): www.summerfoundation.org.au

Video Resources

• NDIS Official YouTube Channel - Official information and updates
• Search: SIL NDIS explained - Video explanations
• Search: Living in SIL homes - Participant experiences

Next Steps: Getting Started with SIL

If you think SIL might be right for you, here's what to do now:

1. Book a meeting with your NDIS planner or LAC - Discuss SIL at your next planning meeting or request a plan review
2. Request support coordination - If you don't have it, ask for it to be added to your plan
3. Start researching providers - Look at SIL providers in your area
4. Arrange an OT assessment - Talk to your support coordinator about getting professional assessments
5. Gather documentation - Collect medical reports and evidence of your support needs
6. Join support groups - Connect with other NDIS participants for advice and experiences
7. Stay informed - Follow NDIS updates and policy changes

Remember, getting SIL funding takes time, patience, and thorough preparation. Don't be discouraged if the process feels slow or overwhelming. With the right support team and proper documentation, you can access the support you need to live more independently.

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Key Takeaways

• SIL provides daily living support to help people with disabilities live independently
• You must already have an NDIS plan and meet specific criteria to qualify for SIL
• The application process takes 6-12 months and requires professional assessments
• NDIS pays for support workers, but you pay for rent, food, and living expenses
• You have choice and control over your provider, living arrangements, and support
• SIL is different from SDA - one is support, the other is accommodation funding
• Your rights are protected by NDIS safeguards and you can make complaints if needed
• Take your time choosing a provider - visit homes and ask lots of questions