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NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL)

Get a clear understanding of NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL). SIL helps people with higher needs live as independently as possible, with support available at home when they need it.

This page covers:

  • What SIL is and how it works in real life
  • Who SIL is designed for and when it’s usually funded
  • How to find suitable SIL providers based on your needs, plan and circumstances

If your NDIS plan includes funding for Supported Independent Living, Care Decisions can help. We’ll compile and send a personalised shortlist of suitable providers, matched to what matters most to you.

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What is Supported Independent Living (SIL) Under the NDIS?

Supported Independent Living is a Core Support under the NDIS. It funds ongoing assistance with daily tasks so you can live as independently as possible, build skills, and stay safe at home.

In practical terms, SIL pays for rostered support workers who help with things like:

  • Personal care (showering, dressing, eating)
  • Household tasks (cooking, cleaning, laundry)
  • Medication support and supervision
  • Building daily living skills and routines
  • Overnight assistance (active or sleepover)

SIL is typically for people who need 24-hour support (or close to it), often living in a shared home with 2–7 other participants. The funding covers the people, not the house itself, rent, groceries, or utilities.

In the Myplace portal and payment requests, this support sits under Core – Home and Living (stated).

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Who Can Benefit From Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

SIL is designed for people who need regular, ongoing support (often 24 hours a day) to live safely and develop independence at home. It is not for everyone, just those with higher support needs.

This support may suit you if you:

  • Need help with personal care like showering, dressing or toileting
  • Require supervision for safety or managing daily routines
  • Have complex behaviours that need consistent support
  • Cannot live safely with only drop-in or part-time assistance
  • Are working toward daily living skills but need structured help
  • Live in a shared home (2–7 people) or sometimes alone with intensive support

SIL is most common for people with moderate to profound disabilities like autism, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, or psychosocial conditions who need help across multiple daily activities.

How Supported Independent Living (SIL) Can Help With Your Day-to-Day Life

SIL provides hands-on support through a roster of care workers who help with everyday tasks. The goal is to build your skills while keeping you safe and supported.

Depending on your needs and roster, SIL can help with:

  • Personal care: Assistance with showering, dressing, grooming, toileting and eating
  • Household tasks: Cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, and keeping your home safe and organised
  • Medication and health: Reminders, support for appointments and managing health routines
  • Skill building: Learning daily living skills like budgeting, meal prep or using public transport
  • Overnight support: Active or sleepover assistance to ensure safety throughout the night
  • Community access: Help getting out for appointments, social activities or recreation

SIL supports are shared in group homes (2–7 people) but tailored to each person’s needs, promoting independence while providing the help you require.

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How Supported Independent Living is Funded Through the NDIS

Supported Independent Living funding sits within the Core Supports budget of your NDIS plan, specifically under Home and Living (stated support).

SIL is “stated” funding, meaning it must be used for the roster of care outlined in your plan and cannot be moved to other categories. The amount is calculated based on a Roster of Care that shows your daily support needs.

Not every plan includes SIL. It is typically funded for people needing high levels of daily support (often 24 hours), based on a Functional Capacity Assessment and Home and Living review.

What SIL funding covers:

  • Roster of support workers for personal care, household tasks and supervision
  • Active overnight or sleepover support
  • Skill-building activities linked to daily living

What SIL funding does NOT cover:

  • Rent, bond, mortgage, or utilities (paid from your income like DSP)
  • Groceries, personal expenses, or home modifications (unless SDA is also funded)

If you are unsure about your SIL funding or roster, check your plan or speak with your Support Coordinator.

How Care Decisions Helps You Find the Right Supported Independent Living (SIL) Providers

Care Decisions is a fast, free, and independent service that supports NDIS participants and families in finding disability support providers matched to their needs, plan and location.

You’ll speak with a dedicated NDIS support specialist who takes the time to understand your situation. For SIL, this often includes:

  • Your support needs and daily routines
  • Whether you’re seeking a shared home or an individual arrangement
  • Compatibility considerations, such as lifestyle, age or preferences

We then prepare a personalised shortlist of available SIL providers who are suited to your circumstances.

You stay in control of the decision, with clear options and no pressure to choose a particular provider.

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How It Works

Finding the right NDIS provider shouldn’t be overwhelming. We make it easier by connecting you with dependable, available support services that meet your needs. Our FREE service takes the hassle out of the search. Here’s how it works.
Step 1

Let’s Get Started

Share your support needs, goals, location, and preferences with your dedicated NDIS matching specialist. We’ll help you find the right providers to suit your unique situation.
Step 2

Get a Tailored Provider Options Report

Our team of trained local NDIS support specialists create a personalised report, showing only NDIS providers who are available and matched to your specific requirements, location, and the type of support you’re looking for.
Step 3

Let Us Help You Make the Most of Your NDIS Plan

Once we have sent a list of options, providers will then be in touch. We’ll also help you understand how the NDIS works, how to get the most value from your allocated budget, and how to maximise the care and support available to you. We can also assist you in comparing provider pricing and service options.

Common Questions About Supported Independent Living (SIL) Support

Does SIL pay for rent or the house?

No. SIL only funds the support workers and roster of care. You pay rent, utilities and groceries from your income (like DSP). The NDIS does not cover accommodation costs.

No. SIL funds the daily support (workers, roster). SDA funds the specialist housing (wheelchair-accessible homes). Many people have both, but they are separate.

What is a Roster of Care and how does it work?

Not always, though most SIL is delivered in shared homes (2–7 people). Individual SIL is possible but rare and requires very high funding levels.

No, but it is often ongoing. Your plan is reviewed every 12–24 months, and funding can change based on your progress and needs.