How to Assess if SIL Accommodation Is the Right Fit Before Applying

Supported Independent Living (SIL) can be a great option for people with disability who want to live more independently, while still having the right supports in place. But SIL isn’t the right fit for everyone. Before applying, it’s important to understand what SIL is, how it works, and how to assess whether it’s the best option for you or your loved one.

This guide will walk you through what SIL accommodation offers, the questions to ask, and the steps you can take to make a confident decision.

What is SIL accommodation?

SIL is a type of support funded by the NDIS for people who need help with daily tasks in a shared living environment. It’s about supporting you to live as independently as possible, while having trained staff available to assist where needed.

Supports may include:

• Help with cooking, cleaning, and household tasks

• Personal care such as showering, dressing, or medication management

• Support with social and community activities

• Building skills so you can do more things on your own over time

SIL usually takes place in a shared home with other participants, although it can sometimes be arranged in individual settings. Importantly, SIL funding only covers the support staff — not the rent or day-to-day living costs.

Is SIL the right type of support for you?

SIL is designed for people who need quite a lot of support each day. If you only need drop-in support or help a few hours a week, SIL may not be the best fit.

Ask yourself:

• Do I need help every day with personal care or household tasks?

• Would I benefit from living with others who also have support needs?

• Am I ready to build more independence but still want staff nearby?

If you answered yes to these, SIL may be worth exploring further. If not, you may want to look into other options, like individual support or drop-in services.

Key factors to consider before applying

Before starting an application for SIL, it helps to think through the following areas:

1. Your support needs

Take time to map out what kind of daily assistance you need. Do you need help around the clock, or just at certain times? For example, some participants need morning and evening support, while others require 24/7 care.

Your NDIS plan will need to reflect these needs clearly. A support coordinator or occupational therapist can help you prepare reports that explain your situation.

2. Your goals

The NDIS always comes back to your goals. SIL should connect to what you want for your future — whether that’s learning to cook, making new friends, or moving out of the family home. Think about whether living in a shared house supports your goals, or whether a different model would suit better.

3. Living arrangements

SIL usually means living with housemates. Some people enjoy the social side, while others find it challenging. Ask yourself:

• Am I comfortable living with others?

• Do I want a say in choosing my housemates?

• What kind of environment helps me feel safe and happy?

4. Location

The right location matters. Think about whether you want to be close to family, friends, work, or services. Many providers offer SIL accommodation across major cities. For example, you might explore Supported Independent Living in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, or Brisbane, depending on where you’d like to live. Looking at different options in your preferred city can help you feel confident about the environment and community you’ll be part of.

5. Provider fit

Not all providers are the same. Each has its own way of supporting people and running homes. When exploring options, consider:

• How do staff build independence, not just provide care?

• How do they match housemates?

• What’s their approach if issues come up in the house?

It’s okay to ask questions and visit a property before making a decision.

Steps to take before applying

If you’re thinking SIL might be the right option, here are some practical steps you can take before lodging an application:

1. Talk to your support coordinator
   They can help you assess your needs, prepare reports, and gather evidence for the NDIS.

2. Get functional assessments
   Reports from an occupational therapist, psychologist, or other allied health professionals can show the level of support you require.

3. Explore different providers
   Don’t rush. Visit properties, meet staff, and ask about their approach. Some providers will let you try short stays or respite first.

4. Think about trial periods
   A short stay in a supported home can give you a feel for what SIL would be like before committing long-term.

5. Involve your family or carers
   They know your routines and needs well. Their input can help you make a balanced decision.

Common signs SIL may not be the right fit

SIL isn’t always the best pathway, and that’s okay. It may not be right for you if:

• You only need a few hours of support per week

• You prefer to live fully on your own without housemates

• You are comfortable with family or informal supports providing daily help

In these cases, other NDIS supports — like Individualised Living Options (ILO), personal care, or community access — may be better suited.

Making the decision with confidence

Choosing SIL accommodation is a big step. It’s not just about where you live — it’s about building the life you want with the right support around you. Taking the time to assess your needs, visit different providers, and gather evidence will help you feel confident before applying.

Remember, SIL is about more than care. It’s about helping you live with more choice, control, and independence. If it feels overwhelming, you don’t have to go through the process alone — a support coordinator or provider can walk you through each step.

How Nextt Can Help

Assessing if SIL accommodation is the right fit takes time and reflection. Think about your daily needs, your goals, and the type of home environment you want. Speak with professionals, involve your support network, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way.

At Nextt, we’ve supported many participants and families to navigate this process and find the right home environment. With the right preparation, you can make a choice that feels right for you — not just for today, but for the future you want to build.