Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support designed to help participants live as independently as possible at home by assisting with daily tasks, skill development, and ongoing support tailored to their needs and goals. SIL is focused on supporting workers helping with daily activities, rather than covering the cost of housing itself.
1. Personal and Daily Living Support
- Help with personal care such as showering, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Support with meal preparation, cooking, and safe eating.
- Assistance with household tasks like cleaning, laundry, and keeping living spaces safe and organised.
- Medication reminders and management to help stay on track with health needs.
These supports are delivered with dignity and respect, helping participants maintain routines and freedom in their own homes.
2. Development of Daily Living Skills
- Learning to prepare meals or grocery shop.
- Budgeting and managing personal finances.
- Travel training or learning to use public transport.
- Building communication and social skills.
3. Household and Health-Related Support
Support with household routines and health-related tasks is another important part of SIL:
Assistance with grocery shopping or planning meals.
Supporting attendance at medical or allied health appointments.
Encouragement towards healthier daily routines, including staying active and engaged.
While SIL doesn’t fund costs like rent or groceries, it does help ensure people can manage these tasks safely and confidently as part of their daily supports.
4. Community Engagement and Participation
SIL support can also help participants stay connected with their community, build social networks, and participate in activities that matter to them. Examples include:
Help attend community events or social gatherings.
Support accessing group activities or programs.
Assistance in engaging in recreational or learning opportunities.
This kind of support encourages independence beyond the home and fosters meaningful connections and inclusion.
5. Supervision, Safety, and Overnight Support
Where needed, SIL includes supervision and support that contribute to health and safety:
Daytime support according to a planned schedule.
Overnight or sleep-over support where clinical or safety needs justify it.
Assistance in ensuring routines and environments remain safe and supportive around the clock.
These supports help provide reassurance so participants can live with confidence and security.
What SIL Funding Does Not Cover
It’s also important to note what SIL typically does not cover, which can help clarify expectations:
Rent, utilities, and other household living costs.
Regular groceries or general day-to-day expenses.
Transport and community activities that fall outside the scope of SIL supports (though these may be funded separately in other parts of an NDIS plan).
Conclusion
Supported Independent Living supports focus on the practical, day-to-day assistance and development of skills that enable participants to live with greater independence, confidence, and connection. Whether it’s personal care, household routines, skill-building, or community engagement, SIL offers personalised supports tailored to individual needs while aiming to build capacity and life skills.
