Can You Have Supported Independent Living (SIL) Without Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Funding? Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to independent living for people with disability, both Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) are important parts of the NDIS. While SDA offers purpose-built housing for individuals with extreme functional impairments, many people don’t receive enough funding for SDA. If you have NDIS funding for housing support but not SDA, SIL homes under the NDIS might be the right solution for you.
In this blog, we will explain how Supported Living under the NDIS works, how it differs from SDA, and why SIL might be the best option if you are looking to live independently without the need for specialised housing.
What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) provides daily support services for people with physical or mental disability who want to live independently. SIL services are available to those living alone or in shared homes and help participants with tasks that promote independence.
Some key benefits of Independent Supported Living include:
- Assistance with personal care, such as showering and dressing
- Help with medical needs, including medication management
- Support with household tasks, including cleaning, shopping, and meal preparation
- Assistance in participating in community activities
SIL services are tailored based on individual needs and are categorised into three levels:
- Lower Needs – Supervision of daily tasks with minimal direct support
- Standard Needs – Regular active support during specific hours of the day
- Higher Needs – 24/7 complex support for individuals requiring constant assistance
Depending on your NDIS plan, you can receive funding for any of these levels of SIL support.
How SIL Differs from SDA?
Although SIL homes under the NDIS and SDA housing are often mentioned together, they serve different purposes:
- SDA focuses on housing – It funds specially designed or modified homes for participants with significant physical impairments who need complex housing solutions.
- SIL focuses on support services – It provides the necessary assistance to help participants live as independently as possible, regardless of the type of home they live in.
If a person needs both a specialised home and daily support, they can receive funding for both SDA and SIL. However, if you don’t qualify for SDA, you can still live independently by accessing SIL in a typical residential home.
Can You Live Independently with SIL Without SDA?
Yes! If you have funding for Supported Living under the NDIS but aren’t eligible for SDA, you can still live in a home of your choice and receive the necessary daily support. Here’s how SIL can help you achieve independent living without SDA:
- Flexible Housing Options – Unlike SDA, which requires purpose-built homes, SIL can be provided in any standard home, including rental properties or family-owned homes.
- Customised Support – SIL offers tailored assistance based on your needs, helping you manage personal care, household tasks, and participation in social activities.
- Greater Independence – With SIL, you can focus on building life skills, staying connected with your community, and living life on your terms.
How to Get Started with SIL Homes NDIS?
If you believe SIL homes under the NDIS might be right for you, start by checking your NDIS plan to see if you have funding for Supported Independent Living. From there:
- Talk to your NDIS Support Coordinator to discuss your goals for independent living.
- Reach out to a trusted NDIS provider, like Interchange, who can help you explore suitable housing options and arrange SIL services tailored to your needs.
Interchange provides Supported Independent Living under the NDIS, offering flexible housing options and personalised support to help participants live independently. We have multiple SIL homes in the heart of Mandurah, where you can enjoy serene nature and personalised services that make you feel more independent and empowered. Whether you want to live alone or with housemates, we will work with you to find a solution that fits your lifestyle.
Conclusion
While Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) offers specialised housing, not everyone qualifies for this type of funding. Fortunately, Independent Supported Living (SIL) is a flexible alternative that allows you to live independently with the support you need, regardless of your housing type.
If you are an NDIS participant looking for SIL homes under the NDIS but don’t have SDA in your plan, don’t worry—SIL can still help you live a fulfilling, independent life. For those who are looking to explore your housing needs, we also provide Design and Exploration Services to help you with your NDIS plans.
Contact Interchange today to learn more about how we can support you on your journey to independence.