For people with disabilities, independent living through the NDIS means having the right support to make everyday choices, manage daily routines and participate in the community with greater confidence and control. It does not mean living without assistance, it means receiving support in a way that respects the participant’s choices, abilities and personal goals. Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one such NDIS-funded support that can provide regular help at home along with building independent living skills of the participant and helping them control of their lives. SIL support is designed for people with higher support needs who require help or supervision at home for most or all of the day. Depending on the participant’s disability support needs, SIL services may be provided individually or shared with other residents.
The quality of a SIL support arrangement often depends on the experience, reliability and approach of the service provider. The most important update that came from NDIA recently is that from 1st October 2026, all providers delivering Supported Independent Living (SIL) must be registered or have applied for registration. Participants’ NDIS plans and funding will not change because of this requirement and they can continue with their current SIL provider if the provider registers. But, if the provider chooses not to register, the participant will need to move to a registered provider, with support from the NDIA to understand the available options. A good NDIS SIL Provider should begin by listening to the participant. Support should be planned around the person’s goals, abilities, interests, cultural background and daily routines. It is also important to ask the provider about the qualifications, screening, training and practical experience of their SIL support workers. Reliable workers are central to quality of SIL support and services. A trustworthy provider should also be open about how it protects participants’ rights, privacy, dignity and safety. You should ask how the provider manages complaints, emergencies, medication, restrictive practices and potential conflicts between residents. There should be clear procedures for identifying and responding to abuse, neglect, exploitation or changes in a participant’s health and support needs. All of this should be specified in the SIL service agreement. Before signing anything, request written information explaining what is included, what the participant must pay and how the arrangement can be changed or terminated.
Ave Maria delivers personalised SIL support designed to help participants feel safe, respected and more confident in their everyday lives. As a registered NDIS provider offering Supported Independent Living services, Ave Maria supports people across Wollongong, the Illawarra, Nowra, Shoalhaven and Sutherland, with services tailored to their individual needs, routines and goals. Contact us today to know more!
