Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Supported Independent Living (SIL) helps people with higher support needs live as independently as possible — usually with support in a shared home. Here's what it covers, and what it doesn't.
What SIL is
Supported Independent Living — SIL — is funding for the help you need with everyday tasks to live as independently as possible. It's designed for people with higher support needs, and it's most often provided in a shared home with other participants, where support is available for extended hours, sometimes around the clock.
The goal is independence with the right support around it — building your ability to do things for yourself, with help there when you need it.
What SIL funds — and what it doesn't
This is the part that trips people up. SIL funds the support, not the roof over your head.
- SIL funds — the support — help with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, personal care, medication prompting and building skills.
- SIL doesn't fund — your rent or accommodation, or everyday living costs like food and bills — those are yours, the same as for anyone.
- Housing is separate — for people who need specialist housing, the dwelling itself is funded through Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), a different support.
SIL vs SDA — the difference
SIL and SDA often go together, but they're not the same thing. SIL is the support — the people helping you. SDA is the housing — a purpose-built or modified home — for participants who are eligible for it.
You can have SIL without SDA — for example, support in a regular shared rental. Not everyone with SIL qualifies for SDA; it's for those with very high support or accessibility needs.
Is SIL right for you?
SIL is generally for people who need a significant amount of support each day. Whether it fits — and how many hours — is worked out with the NDIA based on your needs, usually with input from your support coordinator and therapists.
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What does SIL actually pay for?
The support — help with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, personal care and building skills, usually in a shared home with support available for extended hours. It doesn't pay for your rent, food or bills.
What's the difference between SIL and SDA?
SIL is the support (the people helping you day to day). SDA is the housing (a specialist or modified home) for participants who are eligible. They're funded separately; you can have SIL without SDA.
Does SIL have to be in a shared house?
It's most commonly delivered in shared living, but not always. The right arrangement depends on your needs and goals — your support coordinator can help you explore the options.
Who decides if I get SIL?
The NDIA, based on your support needs — usually with evidence from your support coordinator and therapists. It's generally for people who need a significant amount of daily support.
This is general information to help you get oriented — not official advice, and everyone’s situation is different. The NDIS is changing, so for the current rules always check ndis.gov.au or talk to your planner, Local Area Coordinator, or support coordinator.