Many people with disabilities or mental illnesses are not able to live by themselves or with their family, this is where Supported Independent Living comes in. Here, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about Supported Independent Living, and if it is suitable for you or your loved one.
What Is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living is one type of NDIS funding that supports people with disabilities. It is a type of support offered to those who are deemed eligible, including those that have physical or mental illnesses. Supported Independent Living is NDIS support where someone with a disability lives with others. As many people with disabilities are not able to live by themselves and require support to live their daily lives, Supported Independent Living is a way to receive 24/7 support while living in a shared home environment.
What’s the Difference Between Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
It is important to note that they both sound very similar, but there are some very important differences. Supported Independent Living is the funding for support services. The specialist disability accommodation is the accommodation where the services are delivered. An SDA provider looks after the home, much like a landlord would look after a property. SDA is used when an individual has very high needs. SDA is used to make sure that people don’t pay more for their homes due to their disability. Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers manage the support of the individuals by themselves. A Supported Independent Living provider supplies the care staff to support the people that live in the home.
What Kind of Support Is Offered in Supported Independent Living?
If an individual has Supported Independent Living in their NDIS plan, this entitles them to 24/7 support for the following areas:
Financial matters, including managing money and budgeting.
Helping individuals with disabilities to improve their interaction and socialising skills.
Providing personal and hygienic care, for example showering and dressing.
Domestic duties, such as assistance with cleaning and cooking.
Support with travelling, and attending appointments.
Ongoing assistance with daily life skills.
Every individual with a physical or mental disability has their own needs. There are different levels of support depending on the requirements of the individual, and are broken down into three different levels of support:
Lower Needs
These are classed as levels of support that are not accessible 24/7. This will include the supervision of the living arrangements.
Standard Needs
This is where 24/7 support is provided, and assistance and supervision of daily tasks are provided to the individuals so they can live comfortably and complete their tasks without any stress.
Higher Needs
This is where 24/7 support is provided on a more active basis, including overnight support and managing behaviours that may be considered challenging or require extra assistance.
Additionally, a Supported Independent Living provider also manages the staff that work in the property, and deals with any HR components, such as complaints about the support providers, and also stringently screens support workers for the property.
What Does Supported Independent Living Not Cover?
As a rule, it does not cover the following:
Rent, board, and lodging.
The cost of transport.
Household budgeting, such as personal activities.
Expenses related to holidays.
Personal care supports if the individual is hospitalised.
Items covered in other sections of the NDIS price guide.
How Does Supported Independent Living Funding Work?
In comparison to most NDIS funding, Supported Independent Living funding works as per the following criteria:
You get funding for Supported Independent Living in your plan, but, unlike the NDIS plan (where the dollar amounts are assigned exactly to various categories), SIL plans do not have an exact dollar amount.
You work with a Support Coordinator who determines the level of support and works with the individual to find a suitable property.
The Supported Independent Living provider then provides quotes for the property which will identify what a typical week looks like for the individual.
The levels of funding are broken down into three categories depending on the level of support required as per the lower, standard, and higher needs listed above. The three levels of SIL funding are as follows:
Lower Need
The funding provided supervision of living arrangements, but not on a 24/7 basis.
Standard Need
This provides 24/7 support, also including supervision and/or active assistance of daily tasks and overnight duties, such as sleepovers.
Complex Need
This funding provides frequent assistance to the individual, while also managing challenging behaviours, continual active assistance with every daily task, as well as management of medical needs and overnight support.
How Do I Get Supported Independent Living Funding?
Like all of the other support systems provided by the NDIS, an individual needs to be eligible for the support. When the participants go for their planning meeting to get the Supported Independent Living funding, they will be asked certain questions by the NDIS to understand if they are eligible for the support.
The NDIS system relies on advice from Allied Health professionals to determine if somebody is eligible for Supported Independent Living funding. When applying for funding with the NDIS, it is crucial to ascertain if Supported Independent Living funding is classed as reasonable and necessary by the NDIS planner. It’s important to explain to the planner why it is essential in the circumstances. You can further bolster your case by having a level of evidence as support for your case. The more you prepare, the higher the chances of receiving a funding package close to your needs.
As the NDIS planner does not know the individual looking for funding, it is crucial to be clear in what you need. Explaining the support that the individual receives now and why further support is needed is important, while also planning the goals for the future and what support can help you achieve them.
What Are the Benefits of Supported Independent Living for People With a Disability?
Supported Independent Living funding is a way for people with a disability to have what is rightfully theirs: more choice and control in their lives. If an individual’s aim is to live independently, Supported Independent Living is a very useful way to bridge them between ongoing 24/7 care and an independent life. The Supported Independent Living setup means that the individual shares a home with other people, which means they will have a responsibility for their funding and have to pay rent and spend the funding on things to help them live their daily life. This is where a support worker can help the individual with a disability to make more informed choices so they can live the life that they deserve.
How Do I Find a Supported Independent Living Home?
If you are somebody you are caring for has stated that they would like to live independently, this has to be raised in the NDIS planning meetings. Once a plan has been approved with Supported Independent Living in the package, you or the Support Coordinator can contact support service providers to find any Supported Independent Living vacancies in your local area. It is something that may depend on a variety of situations, and the individual applying for Supported Independent Living may need to work towards this goal by fulfilling a certain set of criteria.
Can You Use Your Supported Independent Living Funding in Your Own Home or Rental Property?
Yes, it is possible to use your Supported Independent Living funding in a variety of places, including:
Shared or group accommodation.
Private rental.
Special disability accommodation.
The house you own.
Housing provided by the department of housing or similar services.
Who Can Help Me With Supported Independent Living?
To make sure you get Supported Independent Living, the most important thing to do is to approach a Support Coordinator. A Support Coordinator is paid by the NDIS to help individuals with mental or physical disabilities navigate the Supported Independent Living process. They work with you to get the best support for your needs. They work with Allied Health and service providers to ensure that every need is met.
Supported Independent Living is an approach to ensure that the individual has more choice and control in their life. Everybody deserves a chance at living their best life, and Supported Independent Living is the perfect way to bridge the gap between 24/7 care and living and independent existence.
If living independently is one of your goals, it can provide a significant number of benefits. If you are looking after someone, and you feel they are ready to take the next step to independence, Supported Independent Living is an ideal way to give you peace of mind. You want to know that the person you care about is being looked after. But also, you want to give them the tools to make sure they know how to start living a life that they have complete control over. This is why Supported Independent Living could be the key to helping so many Australians with physical or mental disabilities live a fuller and independent life.
Don't miss these free cultural and unforgettable events this #AustraliaDay2025 🇦🇺
Home Caring encourages everyone to come together, reflect and commemorate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our beautiful country. While the day may hold various meanings these events focus on unity, understanding and connection.
Tag your friends and make it a weekend to remember! 💛💚
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Emirates is leading the world in accessible travel! Emirates is set to become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™! By training over 30,000 staff and enhancing services, they’re making travel seamless for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. 🌍🩵
We applaud their commitment to inclusion which is setting new standards for accessible journeys—because everyone deserves to travel comfortably.
Tennis is truly #OPEN4ALL! To celebrate diversity and inclusion this All-Abilities Day, Australian Open has inspiring matches like Wheelchair Tennis, Blind and Low Vision Tennis and more. Home Caring is one with #AO2025 in celebrating and cheering for the incredible talent of athletes with disabilities! 🏆
Support at Home simplifies aged care with a single-entry point for in-home services offering flexibility to choose care tailored to individual needs. It ensures higher quality through enhanced caregiver training, stronger regulations and a focus on safety. With customised support plans regularly reviewed for effectiveness and efficient resource allocation directing more funds to frontline services, the program provides seamless, personalised and high-quality care. Reach out to our Care Consultants today to learn how we can support you.
Exceptional experience throughout and highly recommend.Amanda and staff were always courteous and respectful.The benchmark in professionalism and what a provider should attain to. Love you all and thank you :)
The work environment as a whole is fantastic, so supportive and understanding not just for the clients but the staff also. Our director is so uplifting and provides such excellent support and training. As a disability support worker myself I can honestly say I am privileged to work amongst such a wonderful team!
am extremely pleased with the services provided by Home Caring . Their comprehensive approach, expertise, and dedication to meeting the unique needs of individuals with disabilities have made a significant difference in the lives of many. The team’s professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine care for their clients are commendable. I highly recommend Home Caring to anyone seeking exceptional support and services for disabilities.”
After so many years of changing support workers and NDIS company now I can certainly say that this Home caring Hills District is one of the best NDIS providers and best people that I’ve came across, so professional with their work and so understanding. Thank you Home Caring Hills District to make our life so easy and happy again
As a very proud team member of Homecaring Rockhampton, I can say without a doubt, all round, they are absolutely amazing in all areas of client focus and care and certainly led by the Finest. This organisation oozes with Professionalism and always performs at its full potential. So honoured to wear the Homecaring logo daily and so grateful to be given the golden opportunity to offer the ultimate care and assistance to our very valuable clients.
Happy to be under the care of Home Caring...my wife and I are pampered and communication is 100%. We feel we are in safe and caring hands. Thank you guys....
I am so happy to have Home Caring Redland Bay. Lee The principal of the company is a loving and caring person and is available to speak to if you need something done. Communication with staff and Lee are lovingly heard and extras are efficiently fixed. The interest is always the clients first. I highly recommend them
A professional company. The owner is very compassionate and caring. Very supportive of all her clients in reaching their goals. Provides a fantastic service for all her aged care and disability clients. Great Leader.
Great aged care provider, the team at Home Caring Tranmere provide excellent service. They are very friendly and communicate well. Highly recommend Home Caring Tranmere!
Carers are pleasant and courteous. Willingness to help in any way. Will find things which need to be done without being asked.The kindness coupled with great competence.
My husband was very happy with the care he's receiving from Home Caring Dandenong. All his needs are being met & the carers were excellent. They were hard working, respectful & very friendly. His Case Manager, Jyoti, is wonderful. She does everything to make my husband happy & contented. I highly recommend their service.
Extremally satisfied with all the care provided. Careers are excellent caring. Always ensuring the needs of the client above and beyond duty of care. would highly recommend their service.
The service we have received from Renee Smith, Home Caring Shoalhaven Manager, has been nothing short of outstanding. Her commitment, dedication, and genuine concern for her clients has been incredible and greatly appreciated by my family. Nothing is ever too much - whether by text or email, she is always available, and will do everything she can to answer our questions (or will seek further information if she needs to). I know of many other families in my situation and none receive the support Renee has consistently provided us with. She has advocated on my father's behalf and helped us to navigate the aged care system with its myriad of rules and regulations. When there is so much complexity involved in caring for an elderly and vulnerable parent, having someone who provides both assistance and compassion is essential in making a difficult time a little easier. I cannot speak more highly of Renee and all that she has done to help my family - she has gone above and beyond.
Can't recommend Renee and her team at Home Caring enough. They take great care of my mother-in-law and always keep us informed, which is a great comfort to us as we live 5hrs away.Thank you for your continued support !
Renee is awesome. She really takes the time to listen to what we need to support our teenage son, and find a support worker that is a good fit. She is caring and understanding and I can't recommend her services highly enough!
Home Caring Shoalhaven has been my provider for some time now, the services they provide are excellent. Renee my manager is a wonderful lady and readily available when i need her and keeps me up to date on any changes in the system. My personal carer Julie is a wonderful lady and we have developed a very nice relationship. i would be happy to recommend them to anyone.
Home caring in Armadale, have been fantastic for my Mum. Florence and Desiree have gone out of their way to make her feel comfortable and at ease. Their staff are polite, caring, friendly and professional, and always very prompt when returning emails and phone calls.
I cannot speak more highly of Home Caring Tranmere or their Director Annie T. We are new to the system and this is the most positive we have felt in a long time. We no longer feel like a number. Annie answers any questions promptly. We are at last receiving wonderful help inside and outside our home. Thanku Home Caring...the name is exactly what you do.
Home Caring Tranmere South AustraliaFantastic service with caring staff and Annie Tsoumbris, the Director is amazing. So helpful and caring. We had to switch from another Home Care package provider as they cancelled our Dad's contract but Annie was so happy to take on Dad's case and always showed true compassion. I would definitely recommended Home Caring Tranmere!!!
I can’t thank these nurses enough for helping with my dad I would highly recommend them to anyone that needs help with a family member what an amazing service thank you soo much
Such a wonderful blend of professional business practice and caring of clients. Safety and wellbeing prioritised; social to medical. Thank you Lee-Anne. Highly recommended.
The flexibility and responsiveness of this service is amazing. They truly understand putting the customer first and go above and beyond in helping my friend achieve her goals and live a quality life. Would highly recommend this service if you want control and choice when using NDIS supports to achieve your goals.
When it comes to NDIS and customer service, these guys are the place to go. Their key focus is customer service and they really go that extra mile to keeping their clients happy and ensuring they find the most suitable staff to get the best results out of their clients. 100% happy customer, 6mths later. Communication is key.
Moved from ANHF on the prospect that Home Caring would be more flexible and quicker.Initially, good but Dementia Caring has grown and there is more management. They are now slower in decision making and less flexible.Probably should have stuck with ANHF as at least they have a larger staff pool.
Signed up with HomeCaring/Dementia Caring last year with with the Smithfield branch on behalf of a relative. Whilst their fees were not the cheapest, they were a small home care provider that promised a lot and flexible to deal with.Initially, they were reasonable.Home Caring has grown and they now have a larger management team. For the client, this has equated to the client, more roadblocks, more compliance and less flexibility... the decision to switch is now questionable :(Their care worker force is also not that big and quality varies depending on who you get.
Sham of a company. Took my NDIS money. Billed for phantom services. Received no support after having committed 100s of thousands of dollars to the organization. Total lies and fabrication. Beware they are a shameful NDIS operator. No Caring. Took advantage of disabled people. Complete lack of protocol and did not meet my requirements. I would recommend people steer clear of this scam. I was better off without this company. No duty of care shown whatsoever. Greedy and money hungry operation that displays little care for their clients.
Horrendous, Deceptive, and Exploitative - Avoid This Fraudulent Company at All CostsI cannot overstate how appalling my experience with this so-called NDIS provider has been. From start to finish, this organization has proven to be nothing more than a pit of lies, greed, and incompetence, leaving me in a far worse situation than when I first approached them for help. If there were a competition for the most shameful, unethical, and utterly fraudulent NDIS operator, this organization would undoubtedly win without contest. They are, without a doubt, a worthless piece of trash and a disgrace to the NDIS community.False Promises and Deceptive TacticsFrom the outset, this company lures vulnerable individuals and families with grandiose promises of care, support, and life-changing services. They paint a picture of compassion and professionalism, but it’s nothing more than a thin facade hiding their real intention: to siphon as much money as possible from unsuspecting clients. I entrusted them with hundreds of thousands of dollars of my precious NDIS funding, expecting a high level of care and support tailored to my needs. What did I receive in return? Absolutely NOTHING. Not a single genuine service, not a shred of support, not even the decency of honest communication.Phantom Billing and Fraudulent PracticesThis organization has mastered the art of phantom billing. They billed my NDIS account for services that were never provided, blatantly fabricating invoices and records. When questioned, they offered vague, nonsensical explanations and outright refused to provide evidence of the so-called “support” I had supposedly received. This is outright theft. They prey on individuals with disabilities, knowing full well that we rely on our NDIS funding to survive and thrive, and they exploit this vulnerability with shameless greed.
I was living in a home caring house for 6 months and I was not happy and try to kick me out 3 to 4 and I need to pay for the toilet to be fix or. Was getting evicted L.N
I totally agree with the comment below. My late mum was charged for close to $9000 for home amendments and services we never received. I had to chase up the last statements for 8 months which proved the wrongful charges. I filed a claim.SHAME ON YOU FOR EXPLOITING ELDERLY VULNERABLE PEOPLE!My mum would have never realised what they did, if I didn't follow up.So YES, BEWARE!!!
Pathetic customer service. Don’t care about old people. Should not be in this business.They give the account to sub contractors /other companies and don’t respond to any problems after that.
Absolutely disgusting. Would never use again, they wrongly billed all the time and once noticed became very difficult and am still dealing with their incompetence over 6 months later. Do not use unless you want your funding stolen by these guys.
I replied to a person saying they would assist me to find my right fit? I have been having services for more than 3 decades. So well versed in normal acceptable procedures in 2 states. Never, ever been told Insurance companies and carer representation with clients. Must be in 2 hour blocks. I am a level a 4 package. Paraplegic, chair required.I was told my needs would e fully met am and pm. I am currently having chemo for cancer. I am asking for 2 hrs a day, 5-7 days a week. Cleaning once a week, physio stretches twice a week. Never having meals from online. It was suggested I could. I am seeing a huge problem on weekly hour usage. You?They come across as lovely hard working people with No over all experience. Very lacking with general procedure progression., tailor making.No records left behind like a daily report for the client. An absolute must have to protect all parties.Even waiting up to 70 days for funds to be transferred into their bank account. So they can then take off running. They still say they cannot give me an am and pm service.Knowing they cannot give the service I have been given for decades. They will hang on to their 1 yr contract. Which is of no benefit to me. Been to My Aged Care who have said to get them to discuss and provide.They come back with same. Work place agreement disallows helpers to work less than a 2 hour minimum.I have been told by My Aged Care who to go to for assistance, and solicitor and Advocare. One would always hope agreement could be come to without. Best intentions and no adequate service. Are no good.Would appreciate any comment put forward. If you have read thus far. I appreciate that greatly.Obviously the person who said he would find best fit. Is at the very bottom of all this. That is the nitty gritty dirty work going on. Kickbacks would be the game. Otherwise how would you make a living.
(Dissatisfied wife of client)Service does not commence until 1 week after start of contract. This was not made clear beforehand.Training of workers is to be provided by client at client's expense. This was not made clear beforehand.At commencement of 3rd week of service worker does not turn up. No notice provided. 4 hours later provider advises client to make alternative care arrangements for future care. Contract abandoned by provider.
Small player which was good - but now that they have grown, their attention, speed and effectiveness is like the big players.Not consistent in their policies and decisions. Case managers are nice people - but don't really understand client needs.Tends to be based out West
