How Supported Independent Living Works: A Simple Guide for NDIS Participants

Supported Independent Living, or SIL, is a type of paid personal support funded by the NDIS that helps people with disabilities to navigate their everyday life. Instead of paying for the house itself, SIL support pays for the support workers who assist NDIS participants with day-to-day tasks so they can live as independently as possible. It is most often used by people with higher support needs who require help every day, often including overnight support. SIL does not replace normal living costs. Participants still pay their own rent, groceries, utilities and other regular bills. SIL also does not fund medical or nursing care, hospital support, or general travel and holiday costs. It is focused on disability-related support inside the participant’s home as well as some assistance with community participation.

Under SIL support, a support worker might help you get ready in the morning, prepare meals, shower safely, manage medication, keep the home clean, or stay safe if you are at risk of functional difficulties. The goal is not to take over your life, but to work alongside you, building your skills and confidence so that you can make more choices about your daily routine. Not everyone who needs some help at home will need SIL. The NDIS looks at how much support you need across a whole day and night.

SIL is usually considered when a person needs active support for many hours each day and at least some level of support or monitoring for the rest of the time. The NDIS also checks whether other home and living supports, such as personal care supports, Individualised Living Options or short-term arrangements, might suit you better. If a participant is eligible for SIL, the NDIS collects information about their daily needs, goals and living situation. Reports from allied health professionals and a document called a roster of care help show what support is needed in a typical week. Using this information, the NDIS decides how much SIL funding to put in the participant’s plan.

Aastha Community Services offers Supported Independent Living with a strong focus on personalised plans and everyday independence. We are a registered NDIS service provider and we provide reliable NDIS disability support, including SIL support, designed to improve confidence, comfort and quality of life. Contact us today to know more!