Understanding Supported Independent Living (SIL): A Guide to Living More Independently with a Disability
April 28, 2025
For many people with disability, the desire to lead a more independent life is both a personal goal and an essential part of living with dignity and autonomy. Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a vital service under the NDIS that helps make this possible. But what is SIL exactly? And how can it help people achieve their goals while maintaining the right level of support? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about supported independent living and how Orana plays a leading role in helping South Australians navigate this important service.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a type of NDIS support designed for people with disability who need help with daily tasks while living in a shared home or their own residence. SIL funding covers paid support staff who assist with tasks such as:
- Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Cleaning and household chores
- Medication management
- Building skills for greater independence
If you’ve ever asked, “what is supported independent living?”, SIL is essentially the support framework that helps people live as independently as possible, while still having access to daily assistance when needed.
Who is SIL For?
SIL is most suited to people with higher support needs who require help throughout the day (and sometimes overnight). While it’s commonly used by those living in shared housing arrangements, SIL can also be tailored to those who live on their own or with family, depending on individual goals and the level of support required.
Understanding Supported Independent Living NDIS Requirements
To access SIL through the NDIS, participants need to go through a planning and assessment process. This involves working with your NDIS planner or Support Coordinator to outline your daily support needs and identify the most suitable living arrangement. A functional assessment (typically conducted by an occupational therapist) helps determine the right level of support. It’s important to remember that SIL is funded based on the level of care you need, not the physical house itself. Housing arrangements are organised separately through Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or other housing providers, but SIL ensures that the necessary support staff are in place to help you live safely and confidently in your chosen home.
How to Live Independently with Disability
True independence looks different for everyone, but with the right supports in place, people living with disability can build the skills and confidence needed to thrive. Whether it’s learning to cook, managing money, using public transport or simply enjoying more social freedom, SIL can empower people to take control of their day-to-day life.
At Orana, we’ve seen firsthand how transformative SIL can be. For some, it’s the first time living away from home. For others, it’s a step toward greater freedom and connection with the wider community. The common thread is the sense of pride, capability, and personal growth that comes from having the right support – without sacrificing independence.
Why Choose Orana for SIL Support?
With more than 75 years of experience supporting South Australians with disability, Orana understands the unique needs of individual people and whole families navigating the NDIS system. Our Supported Independent Living (SIL) services are flexible, person-centred, and delivered by a passionate team who genuinely care.
We offer a range of shared homes and independent living options across South Australia, designed to suit different needs and lifestyles. More importantly, we work closely with every client to ensure their support plan aligns with their goals, abilities and long-term aspirations. You can also come to Orana for assistance with navigating NDIS, employment support, community options programs and more.
If you’re exploring how to live independently with disability, or you’d like to learn more about what SIL is and how it can support you or a loved one, our team is here to help. To find out more about Orana’s Supported Independent Living services, get in touch with us today – we’re here to support your journey to greater independence.
