What is SIL Funding?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one of the NDIS’s most significant support categories. It provides funding for the personal supports you need to live in shared or individual accommodation — covering 24/7 or rostered support workers who help with daily tasks, personal care, household management, and building independence skills.

SIL funding is separate from your other NDIS supports and requires a specific assessment process.

Who Can Get SIL Funding?

SIL is typically for NDIS participants who:

• Need regular support with daily living activities that can’t be met by other supports
• Want to live independently (alone or with others) rather than with family
• Have support needs that require staff presence overnight or around the clock
• Have goals around building independence and living skills

SIL is not limited to any specific disability type — it’s based on your functional support needs.

The SIL Funding Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Talk to Your Support Coordinator

Your support coordinator is your first point of contact. They will help you understand whether SIL is right for your situation and guide you through the process. If you don’t have a support coordinator, request one at your next plan review.

Step 2: Housing and Support Assessment

The NDIA requires evidence of your support needs. This typically involves:

• An occupational therapy (OT) functional assessment
• Documentation of your current support arrangements and why they’re insufficient
• Your housing goals and preferences
• Behaviour support assessment (if applicable)

Step 3: SIL Quote Development

A SIL provider (like Destiny Community Services) develops a detailed roster of care — a document showing exactly what support hours you need and when. This becomes the SIL quote submitted to the NDIA.

Step 4: NDIA Review and Approval

The NDIA reviews your assessment and quote. They may request additional information. Once approved, SIL funding appears in your plan as a separate line item.

Step 5: Finding Your Home

With SIL funding approved, you work with your support coordinator and SIL provider to find suitable accommodation. Options include:

• Shared housing with other SIL participants
• Individual apartments with support
• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for those who qualify

How Long Does the SIL Process Take?

Realistically, expect 3-6 months from initial discussion to moving in. The assessment and quote process takes 4-8 weeks, NDIA review can take 2-4 weeks, and finding the right home varies.

During this time, Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) can provide supported transitional housing for up to 90 days.

Tips for a Successful SIL Application

• Be specific about your goals: The NDIA funds supports that align with your stated goals
• Get comprehensive assessments: Detailed OT reports strengthen your application
• Choose an experienced provider: Providers who understand SIL quoting (like Destiny) can present your needs accurately
• Document everything: Keep records of incidents, unmet needs, and support gaps
• Consider your preferences: Location, housemates, support style — be clear about what works for you

Where Does Destiny Provide SIL?

We deliver SIL across Adelaide, the Riverland, Tasmania, and NSW. Our trained support workers are available around the clock.

Next Steps

Ready to explore SIL? Contact Destiny Community Services on 0421 453 186 or submit a referral. Our team can discuss your situation, explain the process in detail, and help you get started.