Supported Independent Living (SIL) housing plays a crucial role in Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), offering individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live independently while receiving tailored daily support. SIL housing refers to accommodation settings where participants receive support with day-to-day tasks such as personal care, cooking, cleaning, and skill-building, empowering them to live as autonomously as possible within a shared or individual residence. According to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), approximately 30,000 NDIS participants receive SIL supports nationally, with numbers steadily increasing as more individuals seek person-centred, flexible living arrangements aligned with their goals.
SIL housing is funded under the Core Supports budget in a participant’s NDIS plan and is intended for individuals with higher support needs who require assistance throughout the day or overnight. This type of accommodation is commonly provided in shared homes, but can also be arranged in individual settings, depending on the participant's preference and support requirements. Unlike Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which refers to the physical building, SIL refers solely to the support services delivered within the home. Therefore, SIL and SDA may be funded separately, and not all participants in SIL homes require SDA.
The benefits of SIL housing are wide-ranging. In addition to 24/7 access to support workers, participants are encouraged to develop independent living skills such as budgeting, meal preparation, self-care, and community participation. SIL homes are often co-located with other support services, ensuring residents have access to healthcare, transport, education, and recreational opportunities. Housing providers work in collaboration with participants, their families, and support coordinators to match individuals with compatible housemates and provide culturally responsive and safe living environments.
The availability of SIL housing across Australia continues to grow, particularly in regions like Greater Western Sydney, Melbourne’s outer suburbs, and parts of Queensland where demand for disability housing is increasing. The NDIA’s latest quarterly report (March 2024) revealed that over $2.6 billion was allocated to SIL services in the past 12 months alone, representing a significant investment in building inclusive, sustainable housing supports for people with disabilities.
For individuals seeking SIL housing, the process typically involves a functional assessment (such as an Occupational Therapy report) to determine eligibility and appropriate support levels. Participants then work with their NDIS planner or support coordinator to identify suitable providers and housing options. Providers like NDMHS specialise in delivering high-quality SIL services across New South Wales, focusing on culturally safe, accessible, and person-led living arrangements that reflect each participant’s goals, preferences, and lifestyle.
Whether you are transitioning from a family home, hospital, or existing shared accommodation, SIL housing can be a transformative step towards greater independence, confidence, and social inclusion. With the right provider, participants benefit from consistent support, increased life skills, and the ability to live in a home that truly feels like their own.