Transitioning from Home into SIL: A Practical Roadmap for Families

Leaving the family home is a big step for anyone — but for people with disability, it can come with extra layers of planning, emotion, and paperwork. For many families, the move into Supported Independent Living (SIL) isn’t just about finding a new home. It’s about building the right supports, routines, and confidence to make independent living a success.

If your loved one is preparing to move from home into SIL, here’s a clear, practical roadmap to help guide you through each stage.

Step 1: Understand What SIL Really Means

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is funded under the NDIS to help people with disability live as independently as possible. It covers support with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, personal care, and medication — but not the cost of rent or utilities.

SIL is designed for people who need 24/7 support or regular help throughout the day. It can be provided in a shared home with other participants, or sometimes on your own.

It’s important to understand that SIL is about independence, not just care. The goal is to help your loved one gain confidence and learn life skills — not to do everything for them.

If you’re unsure whether SIL is the right option, talk with your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC). They can help you look at other options too, such as Individualised Living Options (ILO) or in-home supports.

Step 2: Start the Conversation Early

Moving out can stir up lots of emotions — excitement, worry, uncertainty. Start having open conversations early.

Talk about:

• What independence means for your loved one.

• The types of supports they’ll need to feel safe and comfortable.

• What their “ideal home” looks like — location, housemates, routines, community connections.

If your loved one is nervous or unsure, take things slowly. Visit a few different SIL homes, meet staff, and talk to other participants. Sometimes just seeing what’s possible helps build confidence.

At Nextt, we often encourage families to think of this as a journey, not a jump. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach — and that’s okay.

Step 3: Build the Right NDIS Supports

To move into SIL, your loved one’s NDIS plan will need to include SIL funding. This requires an assessment of their support needs, often using tools like the NDIS “SIL provider quote” or a functional assessment from an occupational therapist.

You’ll need to show:

• Why SIL is the most suitable option.

• What level of support your loved one needs each day.

• How this will help them reach their goals for independence.

Your Support Coordinator can help you prepare this information for the NDIA. It’s important to get this right before you apply — clear, well-documented evidence makes the process smoother.

Once SIL funding is approved, you can start exploring providers who match your loved one’s goals and personality.

Step 4: Visit and Choose a SIL Home

Choosing the right home is one of the biggest decisions. Every SIL home is different — from the location and housemates, to the level of support and the culture of the provider.

When visiting homes, consider:

• Location: Is it close to family, friends, and community activities?

• Compatibility: How do the housemates’ routines, interests, and support needs align?

• Staff approach: Do the support workers encourage independence and respect choice?

• Environment: Does the home feel safe, welcoming, and accessible?

Don’t rush the decision. Take the time to meet potential housemates and talk through daily routines. It’s worth finding a place where your loved one feels they truly belong.

At Nextt, we help families match participants with homes and support teams that suit their goals, personality, and lifestyle — not just their funding.

Step 5: Plan the Move

Once the home is chosen, create a transition plan. This helps your loved one settle in gradually.

A transition plan might include:

• Short visits or overnight stays before the move.

• Introducing routines like meal prep or shared chores.

• Getting to know support staff and neighbours.

• Organising personal items, furniture, and familiar belongings.

It can also help to keep some home rituals during the early weeks — like Sunday phone calls or family dinners. These small connections provide comfort and continuity.

Step 6: Support the Emotional Transition

For many parents and carers, this move is emotional. It’s a mix of pride, relief, and sometimes loss.

It’s okay to feel all of that. The best thing you can do is stay involved — not by doing everything, but by being part of your loved one’s new support network. Visit, call, or share meals together. Celebrate milestones, no matter how small.

For participants, building confidence takes time. Be patient. Encourage them to make choices, manage small tasks, and express their needs. With the right support, most people grow quickly in independence and self-esteem once they’ve made the move.

Step 7: Review and Adjust

After the move, there will be a settling-in period. It’s normal for things to need adjustment — maybe a change to routines, staff, or support levels.

Keep communicating with the SIL provider and your Support Coordinator. Regular reviews and open feedback help ensure the supports remain right for your loved one’s goals and wellbeing.

Remember: SIL is not a “set and forget” arrangement. It should evolve as your loved one’s skills, confidence, and aspirations grow.

How We Can Help

Transitioning from home into SIL is a big change — but with good planning and the right provider, it can be a positive and empowering step toward independence.

At Nextt, we’ve supported hundreds of individuals and families through this journey. We understand the emotions, the paperwork, and the importance of finding a home that truly feels like home.  We have SIL homes in:

• Melbourne
• Sydney
• Brisbane
• Adelaide
• Ballarat
• Geelong and more.

If you’re ready to explore SIL options or want help planning the move, our team can walk beside you — every step of the way.