Supported Independent Living (SIL): What It Is and Who It's For

Supported Independent Living, commonly called SIL, is NDIS funding for help with daily tasks so a participant can live as independently as possible — usually in a shared living arrangement with other participants, though individual arrangements exist too.

SIL funding typically covers support with things like cooking, cleaning, personal care, and developing everyday life skills. It's distinct from Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which funds the physical building itself rather than the support delivered inside it.

Not everyone with an NDIS plan is eligible for SIL — it's generally for participants who need higher levels of daily support and can't safely or comfortably live alone without it. Eligibility is assessed through a functional capacity assessment.

The amount of SIL funding in a plan is based on the level of support required, which can range from a few hours a week to 24/7 support, and is usually shared across the household rather than allocated to one person alone.

If you think SIL might be right for you or someone you support, a conversation with your support coordinator or planner is the best place to start, as the assessment process can take some time.