What Is Support Independent Living and How Does It Work?

Supported independent living (SIL) is more than just accommodation — it’s a fundamental support that empowers people with disability to live autonomously, build essential life skills, and fully participate in the community. At SIL Connect, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling, choice-driven life with the right supports in place. Our platform is dedicated to helping individuals, families and advocates find the right support to support independent living, seamlessly connecting them with trusted service providers across Australia. 

What Does “Support Independent Living” Really Mean?

At its core, support independent living refers to the assistance that enables people with disability to live in their own homes or shared living environments with dignity, choice and confidence. Through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding is provided to help participants with daily living tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, household management, medication reminders and community engagement. These supports are tailored to individual needs and goals, with the purpose of building capability and enhancing quality of life. 

Unlike traditional group home models, SIL places a strong emphasis on personal goals, routines and preferences. Whether someone is transitioning from living with family, moving from another type of support setting, or simply seeking greater independence, support independent living helps facilitate this step with support available 24/7 if needed.

The Core Benefits of SIL Support

Choosing SIL as part of one’s support plan offers numerous positive outcomes:

1. Enhanced Daily Living Skills
With consistent, person-centred support, participants can learn and practise skills like cooking, cleaning, budgeting, personal care and self-management. Over time, this fosters confidence and increases independence in day-to-day life. 

2. Safe, Supportive Environment
SIL homes are designed to be safe and adaptable, providing environments where individuals can feel secure and supported while pursuing their personal aspirations.

3. Individualised Support
SIL support is flexible and tailored. Whether an individual needs minimal assistance or more comprehensive care throughout the day and night, the support can be adjusted according to changing needs. 

4. Community Participation
Independent living support focuses not only on what happens inside the home but also on participation in community activities like employment, education, social events and recreation. This fosters stronger social connections and a greater sense of belonging. 

How SIL Connect Helps You Support Independent Living

At SIL Connect, our mission is to simplify the process of finding and accessing the right SIL providers to support independent living. Our intuitive platform connects individuals with a wide range of verified NDIS and aged care service providers who specialise in SIL, making it easier than ever to explore options that align with unique needs and goals.

What SIL Connect Offers:

• Comprehensive Provider Listings – Easily search and compare supported independent living options and other NDIS services.

• Trusted Matches – All providers are verified for quality and reliability, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

• User-Friendly Experience – Our platform is designed to be clear and simple to navigate for participants, families, and support coordinators alike. 

• Support Beyond SIL – In addition to independent living options, SIL Connect also links to services like daily personal care, life skill development, transport support and more.

Why Supporting Independent Living Matters

Living independently is more than a housing choice — it’s a pathway to self-determination, dignity and social inclusion. When individuals are supported to live the way they choose, they are more likely to build resilience, engage with their communities and thrive in ways that matter to them. SIL plays an essential role in making this possible.