Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the most important, and most misunderstood, parts of the NDIS. This guide explains the basics.
What is SIL?
SIL is NDIS funding for help with daily tasks in your home, so you can live as independently as possible. It pays for the support, not the house: rent, bills and food are usually paid by you, often from the Disability Support Pension.
Who is SIL for?
SIL is generally for people with higher support needs who need help for a significant part of the day and night, often in a shared home with two to four housemates. It can suit people moving out of the family home, leaving hospital or residential aged care, or changing from another SIL provider.
What does SIL cover?
- Personal care, such as showering and dressing
- Meal preparation and household tasks
- Medication support and help with health routines
- Support overnight, either active or sleepover
- Help to build skills and take part in the community
How do you get SIL funding?
You or your support coordinator make a home and living request to the NDIA, with evidence about your support needs, usually including an occupational therapy functional assessment. Once SIL is approved, your provider develops a roster of care that shows the support you’ll get across the week.
SIL and recent NDIS changes
The NDIS is going through significant reform, and providers of SIL are among the first affected by changes to provider registration. When comparing SIL providers, ask about their NDIS registration and how they’re preparing for changes. Check the NDIS Commission for current requirements.
Questions to ask a SIL provider
- Who will my housemates be, and can I meet them first?
- How consistent is the house staffing?
- How do you handle overnight support and emergencies?
- How will you support my goals, not just my routine?
- How do I raise a concern or make a complaint?
Ask about current Care Cove SIL vacancies and where our homes are. About SIL at Care Cove.