What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Discover Supported Independent Living (SIL)

Achieve greater independence with the support you need

Are you looking to build your daily living skills and work towards greater independence? Supported Independent Living (SIL) might be the next step to help you reach your goals!

If you’re new to the concept, SIL refers to support services designed to help people with disabilities live more independently. Whether you’re living in your own home or an NDIS-funded housing arrangement, a disability support worker can come to you – offering assistance with daily tasks, personal care, medication, and more.

Including SIL in your NDIS plan means you’ll receive the support you need to live life on your own terms. It’s important to speak with your NDIS planner about your needs and preferences to determine the appropriate level of support – and whether housing options like SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) are suitable.

Let’s explore what Supported Independent Living involves, and how to include it in your NDIS plan.

What is Supported Independent Living?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a service that provides day-to-day support for people with disabilities, helping them live more independently. No matter your care needs, your disability support worker can offer tailored, one-on-one support focused on building your skills and confidence.

SIL supports may include:

• Daily living assistance: cleaning, gardening, cooking, and grocery shopping

• Personal care: showering, oral hygiene, dressing, and toileting

• Medication management: safe storage and administration of medication

• Lifestyle activities: engaging in hobbies, social events, and community participation

• Personal development: building life skills and working towards your goals

SIL can be provided in your own home or in NDIS-supported accommodation. Depending on your needs, overnight support may also be available.

What SIL Does Not Cover

It’s just as important to know what SIL doesn’t include. SIL funding does not cover:

• Rent, board, or lodging costs

• Groceries and other food costs

• Utilities like electricity, gas, water, or internet

• Vehicle-related costs

• Holiday or travel expenses

• Budgeting or bill-paying services

Am I Eligible for SIL?

Not everyone is eligible for SIL funding, but if the NDIS determines that SIL will help you:

• Work towards your goals

• Improve or maintain your current abilities

• Reduce your need for ongoing support

• Strengthen your community and social connections

…then SIL may be included in your plan.

The NDIS considers each application individually based on:

• Your personal circumstances: your current living situation, goals, and support needs

• Your age: generally, you must be 18 or older (some exceptions apply for those aged 17)

• Your level of need: you may be eligible if you require active support for more than 8 hours a day

To apply, you’ll need to submit the Home and Living Supports Request Form via the NDIS website. Include any assessments or reports that show your daily support needs, functional abilities, and housing goals. This helps the NDIS make an informed decision based on your unique situation.

What Happens After You’re Approved?

Once you receive SIL funding, the next step is choosing a registered NDIS provider – like Aspire Hub.

At Aspire Hub, we believe your home should be a place where you feel safe, respected, and free to be yourself. From selecting your home to decorating your room, you’ll be part of every decision. We offer a wide range of SIL-eligible homes across Queensland and can help match you with the right support for your lifestyle and independence goals.

All our services are individually funded and tailored to your unique needs.

“I have lived in a SIL house before but none of them were as nice. My carers are very professional – they communicate with me and my family very well. Every day I do as much or as little as I want to. I live my life the way I want, and Aspire Hub helps me to do this.”

There are no waiting lists – our friendly team is ready to support you right away.

Ready to Learn More?

If you think Supported Independent Living is right for you or a loved one, we’d love to help.

Call us on 07 3074 9440
Or fill out our contact form to get started today.