Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS-funded daily support that helps people with disability live as independently as possible in a shared home. SIL covers the support you receive — not the house you live in. The house is separate.
What does SIL actually include?
SIL means having a dedicated team of support workers who help you with the things you need throughout the day and night. This typically includes:
- Personal care — help with showering, dressing, and grooming
- Meal preparation — planning, cooking, and eating together
- Household tasks — cleaning, laundry, and maintaining your living space
- Medication support — reminders and assistance with daily medication
- Transport and escort — getting to appointments, shops, day programs, and social outings
- Community access — staying connected with friends, family, and local activities
- Skill building — working alongside you to build confidence and independence over time
SIL is not about doing everything for you. It is about having the right support around you so you can live a full life at your own pace.
How is SIL funded?
SIL is funded through your NDIS plan, specifically under the Core Supports budget. The amount of SIL funding depends on your individual needs and goals, as assessed by the NDIA. SIL funding covers the cost of support workers — rent, food, utilities, and personal expenses are separate and typically covered from your Disability Support Pension (DSP) and Rent Assistance.
Who is SIL for?
SIL is generally for NDIS participants aged 18 or older with significant disabilities who require daily or around-the-clock support to live safely and independently. Whether SIL is included in your plan depends on your individual circumstances and assessed needs, as determined by the NDIA.
How is SIL different from SDA?
This is one of the most common questions families ask. The simplest way to think about it: SIL is the support. SDA is the house.
- SIL (Supported Independent Living) funds the support workers who help you day to day
- SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) funds the specialist housing itself
They are two separate funding streams in your NDIS plan. Most people in SIL also live in SDA housing, but they are assessed and funded independently.
SIL in Western Sydney and regional Victoria
Australian SDA Access (ASDA) provides SIL support across homes in Merrylands, Spring Farm (Camden), Ruse (near Campbelltown), and Bonshaw (Ballarat, Victoria). Each home is a small, home-like house in a quiet residential street — not a facility or institution.
If you would like to learn more about SIL or arrange a free, no-obligation tour of one of our homes, contact the ASDA team on 1300 100 167 or at admin@australiansda.com.au.