What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) represents both NDIS-funded and unpaid funded services that help a participant with a disability to live as independently as possible, while also providing daily support as needed. SIL includes support with personal care, assistance with daily household task, meal preparation, medication management, and developing life skills.
SIL is the best option for participants who either require 24/7 support or regular daily living assistance; and it is most accessed by participants living in shared housing with other SIL participants. According to the NDIS Quarterly Report (June 2024), there are more than 45,000 Australians currently receiving SIL supports. This data highlights the importance of SIL and how it is supporting people to live with increased independence.
Supported Independent Living in Sydney: The Growing Need
Sydney is home to one of the largest populations of NDIA participants in Australia — with over 170,000 active participants in New South Wales alone (NDIS Data 2024). Out of those 170,000+ NDIA participants, a significant number of participants access Supported Independent Living in Sydney to allow them to access ongoing stable accommodation, and skilled support workers who help them work towards their individual goals.With the continuous development of the city, there has also been an increase in the number of quality Support Independent Living NDIS providers with person-centred care, flexible living opportunities and skill development.
How Supported Independent Living Works Under the NDIS
SIL funding is extended to eligible participants of the NDIS, where their disability supports assistance for one or more daily tasks. The funding is about independence, not dependence – meaning where possible, participants are encouraged and supported to do as much as they can themselves, with support offered where required.
The NDIS Supported Independent Living plan includes, but is not limited to, the following supports that revolve around the individual's needs:
- Daily living assistance – assistance with cooking, cleaning, showering, personal hygiene;
- Skill development – assisting participants in developing confidence in budgets, grocery shopping, and transport;
- 24-hour supervision or on-call assistance, providing safety and wellbeing;
- Community participation – encouraging participants to engage in local Sydney activities, volunteering and events.
SIL arrangements are tailored to meet support needs and goals so that independence and safety are ensured.
Benefits of Supported Independent Living (SIL)
There are several positive life-changing benefits for individuals choosing SIL in Sydney.
- Independence
Supported Independent Living offers participants the opportunity to manage their daily life, daily decisions, and daily living their own way. Over time, most individuals move into a lower level of support as they become more independent in daily living.
- Social Inclusion and Belonging
All residents live together, fostering a sense of belonging; reducing social isolation. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) indicates that people living in shared supportive accommodation have a 32% higher satisfaction of engagement socially than people who live alone and receive little support.
- Personal Development and Skill Development
SIL is not just about assistance - it’s about development. Participants learn to manage their finances and prepare health meals and other responsibilities; they do all of this with the assistance of a professional.
- Peace of Mind
Families can take comfort knowing their loved ones are under the watch of trained staff who have safety, care and well-being as priorities to the individual's well-being.
Why Choose Improved Ability for Supported Independent Living in Sydney?
At Improved Ability, we provide NDIS Supported Independent Living services that have a true person-centred approach. Our focus is to provide safe, nurturing and empowering spaces that enable people to thrive.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Tailored Support Plans: Each participant’s SIL plan is "person-centred" and is designed specific to their goals, preferences and abilities, and includes reviews often to accommodate for their changing needs.
- Highly skilled staff: All support workers are trained to provide care and assistance, ensuring dignity, respect and care always, always.
- Beautiful Sydney homes: We provide comfortable shared homes around Sydney suburbs that are well maintained with ability, accessibility, and a sense of community.
- Collaborative approach: Families, NDIS planners and participants get worked together to ensure every level of support aligns to everyone's lifestyle and goals.
If you are transitioning from family care, and require new accommodations, or just wanting to develop more independence — Improved Ability's Supported Independent Living (SIL) provides the right foundation to develop and achieve independence.
How to Access Supported Independent Living Through the NDIS
To be eligible for Supported Independent Living NDIS funded services, you must have it in your NDIS plan. You will usually undergo an assessment for daily support needs, and home living arrangements.
Once authorized, you can select an SIL provider like Improved Ability to begin your living journey. Our team supports all participants (and their families) through each part of their journey — housing options and NDIS plan coordination.
The Path to Independence Starts Here
Living independently isn’t just about having a place to live - it’s about having the confidence, a support network, and support to engage in the life you want to live.
Through SIL in Sydney, Improved Ability supports people with disabilities to establish regular and meaningful routines, engage with their local communities, and work on their personal goals.
If you or anyone you know is seeking out reliable Support Independent Living NDIS options, don’t hesitate to contact Improved Ability today, and begin your journey for greater independence and darn good living.
