In short: Supported Independent Living (SIL) funds the support workers who help you with daily tasks where you live — it is not the housing itself. Choosing a SIL provider in Melbourne means looking at both the support and how it fits with your home. This guide explains how SIL and accommodation work together and what to look for.
What is SIL, and how does it relate to accommodation?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS funding for the help you need with everyday tasks — such as personal care, cooking, cleaning and building skills — usually where you live with other participants, with support available during the day, overnight, or around the clock.
It is important to know that SIL pays for the support, not the rent or the house itself. Your housing might be a private rental, social housing, or — for some people with very high needs — Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which is separate funding for the dwelling. SIL and your housing work together but are funded differently. For the basics, see our guide to Supported Independent Living.
Who is SIL for?
SIL is generally for people with higher daily support needs who need significant help most days. The NDIS looks at whether SIL is reasonable and necessary for you, based on your disability, your goals and the support you need to live as independently as possible. Some people with lower needs are better suited to other supports, such as independent support workers in their own home.
How do I choose a SIL provider in Melbourne?
When comparing SIL providers, it can help to consider:
- The type and hours of support they provide, and whether that matches your needs
- Who you would live with, if it is a shared arrangement, and whether it feels like a good fit
- How they support your goals and independence, not just daily tasks
- Staff experience, consistency and how they handle changes or concerns
- Clear agreements, and how support is reviewed over time
- The location and how it suits your community, work, study and family
It is reasonable to visit, ask questions, and take your time before deciding.
How SIL and your housing fit together
Because SIL and housing are separate, it helps to plan both. Your support coordinator can help you find SIL support that works with your housing situation, and explore housing options if you are looking to move. Getting SIL into a plan usually involves evidence about your support needs, so a support coordinator and allied health reports can be valuable.
Getting started in Melbourne's west
Our team supports NDIS participants across Melbourne's west, including Truganina, Melton, Werribee and Deer Park. We can help you understand your options and how SIL might fit your plan.
- Learn about our NDIS supports
- Check your eligibility or make a referral
- Or contact our team — support is available in several languages
Frequently Asked Questions
Does SIL pay for my rent or housing?
No. SIL funds the support workers who help you with daily tasks where you live — not the rent or the dwelling itself. Your housing is funded separately, whether that is a private rental, social housing, or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for people with very high needs. SIL and housing work together but come from different funding.
Who is eligible for SIL?
SIL is generally for people with higher daily support needs who require significant help most days. The NDIS assesses whether SIL is reasonable and necessary based on your disability, goals and support needs. People with lower needs may be better suited to other supports, such as support workers in their own home. A support coordinator can help you understand what fits.
What is the difference between SIL and SDA?
SIL is funding for the support you receive, while Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is funding for specially designed housing for people with very high needs. Many people who receive SIL do not have SDA — they live in regular housing with support. The two are funded separately and not everyone needs both.
How do I choose a good SIL provider?
Look at whether the support type and hours match your needs, who you would live with in a shared setting, how the provider supports your goals and independence, and staff experience and consistency. Clear agreements and regular reviews matter too. It is reasonable to visit, ask questions and take your time before deciding.
How do I get SIL added to my NDIS plan?
Getting SIL funded usually involves evidence about your support needs, often including allied health reports and input from a support coordinator, showing why SIL is reasonable and necessary for you. The NDIS reviews this as part of planning. Our team and a support coordinator can help you prepare and understand the process.
Trusted sources for further reading
This article is general information only and does not replace individual professional advice. NDIS funding decisions depend on your individual plan and circumstances. For advice about your situation, please speak with your support coordinator or the NDIS.
