Who Is Eligible for SIL Under the NDIS?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is for NDIS participants who need higher support needs who require assistance or supervision for most of the day or at all times. It can assist with daily activities and build practical skills. SIL funding eligibility depends on individual support needs, not diagnosis alone.
The NDIS considers how disability affects daily life, safety, independence, goals, and living arrangements. SIL eligibility may apply when ongoing assistance is required. Less intensive supports may be considered if they can safely meet those needs.
To understand the support available, read our guide on what Supported Independent Living (SIL) is and how it can help NDIS participants.
What Does SIL Funding Eligibility Depend On?
The NDIS considers several factors when deciding whether SIL is appropriate for a participant. These include daily support needs, living arrangements, personal goals, and the impact of disability on independence. SIL funding must also meet the relevant NDIS funding requirements.
| Category | What the NDIS considers |
|---|---|
| NDIS participant | Whether the person is an NDIS participant |
| Disability-related needs | How disability affects daily activities and independence |
| Support needs | If the participant needs ongoing support or supervision throughout the day |
| Living situation | Current living arrangements and available support |
| Goals | Whether SIL supports independence and personal goals |
| Individual circumstances | Whether SIL suits the person's specific needs |
| Reasonable and necessary | Whether the proposed support meets NDIS requirements |
A disability diagnosis alone does not guarantee NDIS SIL funding. The assessment focuses on how the disability affects the participant’s everyday life and the support they require.
Understanding the available housing options can also help you decide whether SIL suits your circumstances. Read our guide to the difference between SIL and disability accommodation to learn more about the options available.
What Evidence May Be Needed for SIL Funding?
Evidence helps demonstrate the participant’s functional abilities and the level of support required. It should provide practical information about daily activities rather than simply confirming a diagnosis. SIL funding eligibility may be supported by evidence from relevant professionals and people involved in the participant’s care.
Potential evidence may include:
- Functional Capacity Assessment: Explains daily abilities, limitations, and support needs.
- Health professional reports: Describe disability-related impacts on daily activities and safety.
- Daily support information: Shows the assistance or supervision currently required.
- Family or carer information: Provides insight into everyday support needs.
- Living arrangement details: Explains the participant’s current home and support situation.
- Support coordinator input: Provides information about goals and suitable home and living options.
- Support proposals: Outlines proposed assistance and support arrangements.
- Alternative support information: Explains why other options may not meet the participant’s needs.
This evidence should create a consistent picture of the participant’s circumstances. It can help explain why NDIS supported independent living may be suitable and what level of support may be required.
How Do You Request SIL Funding?
Applying for SIL funding starts with understanding your support needs and gathering relevant evidence. Your information should explain how your disability affects daily activities and why SIL may be suitable. Discussing your circumstances with an NDIS professional can help clarify the next steps.
1. Review Your NDIS Goals
Consider how your current living situation relates to your independence and support goals.
2. Gather Supporting Evidence
Collect relevant assessments and reports that explain your daily support requirements. This includes:
- what the participant can and cannot do because of their disability
- how often and when support is required
- how this affects daily life and housing
- what other home and living options have been considered and why they don’t meet the person’s needs.
3. Discuss Home and Living Options
Speak with your support coordinator, LAC, or relevant NDIS contact about suitable options.
4. Prepare and Submit Your Information
Provide details about your support needs, living arrangements, and required assistance.
5. Wait for the NDIA Decision
The NDIA reviews your circumstances and supporting evidence before making its decision.
How to Choose a SIL Provider
Choosing a provider is an important step after SIL has been identified as a suitable option. Look for support that reflects your needs, preferences, goals, and living arrangements. A participant-focused provider should support choice, dignity, safety, and independence.
SIL Provider Registration Requirements
From 1 July 2026, providers delivering Supported Independent Living (SIL) must meet new NDIS registration requirements. Registered SIL providers must comply with the NDIS Practice Standards for supported independent living and other registration requirements.
If you are choosing a SIL provider, you can ask the provider about their NDIS registration status and whether they are authorised to deliver SIL supports. Certain providers transitioning to registration can continue delivering SIL while their registration application is being assessed, provided they meet the applicable transition requirements.
What to Look for in a SIL Provider
- Experience supporting people with similar needs
- Trained and respectful support workers
- Individualised support planning
- Clear and consistent communication
- Participant choice and control
- Reliable support arrangements
- Strong quality and safety practices
Exploring SIL Support with Auslife Care
Choosing Auslife Care gives participants access to personalised support based on their individual needs and goals. As a registered NDIS provider in Melbourne, we support participants with daily living and disability support. Our experienced support workers provide respectful, reliable and participant-focused assistance.
Support plans can be tailored to individual circumstances, preferences and aspirations. Our team can also work with families and support networks where appropriate. This approach can help participants develop practical skills and greater independence.
To discuss NDIS supported independent living options, call 03 9221 9232 or 03 9099 0092. You can also email info@auslifecare.com.au.
FAQs
Can SIL funding be used for short-term accommodation?
SIL is intended for ongoing support with daily living. Short-term accommodation is funded separately under the NDIS and has different purposes.
Does SIL include support during the night?
SIL can include overnight support when it is appropriate for the participant’s needs. The type of overnight assistance depends on the individual support arrangement.
Can a participant choose who they live with under SIL?
Participants should have choice and control over their living arrangements where possible. Their preferences can be considered when exploring suitable SIL options.
Can SIL support help with learning daily living skills?
Yes. SIL can include assistance that helps participants develop skills for everyday activities. The focus can include greater confidence and independence in the home.