What is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS funding for people who need significant support to live as independently as possible — usually in a shared or individual living arrangement. SIL funding pays for the support workers who assist you in your home, not the home itself.
SIL is typically for people who need support with daily activities for many hours each day, including overnight or 24-hour support. It is one of the largest individual funding amounts in the NDIS.
Who is SIL for?
SIL is generally appropriate for people who:
- Have high or very high support needs requiring frequent daily assistance
- Want to live away from family in a home of their own or with housemates
- Need overnight or active night support
- Are transitioning from family care, hospital, or a group home setting
How is SIL funding determined?
SIL is one of the most individually assessed funding types in the NDIS. You'll need a detailed assessment of your support needs, usually involving your OT and support team. The NDIS will assess the number of hours and level of support you require across different times of day and night.
SIL vs SDA: what's the difference?
This is one of the most common points of confusion in the NDIS:
- SIL (Supported Independent Living) — funds the people (support workers) who help you live independently
- SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) — funds a specialist home designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs
Some people have both SIL and SDA in their plans. Many SIL participants live in ordinary rental properties or homes.
How to apply for SIL
You'll need to work with your Support Coordinator and OT to prepare a SIL submission for the NDIS. This includes a detailed roster of care, functional assessments, and evidence of why the level of support is necessary. The process can take time — start early and get specialist help.
How Lyft Community can help
Lyft Community supports participants in SIL arrangements across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. We work with participants, families, Support Coordinators and OTs to develop appropriate support plans and provide consistent, high-quality support. Contact us to discuss your situation.