For people with disabilities and their families, selecting the right SIL accommodation is more than just picking a place to live — it’s about choosing a supportive, safe, and empowering environment. With NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL), individuals can access help with daily tasks while enjoying the independence of their own home.
But how to choose SIL provider that aligns with your needs and goals? With a growing number of supported independent living providers in Australia, it’s crucial to evaluate your options carefully.
In this blog, we explore the top 5 things to consider before choosing SIL accommodation, helping you navigate your decision with confidence.
1. Understanding How SIL Accommodation Works
Before diving into your options, it’s important to understand how SIL accommodation works.
Supported Independent Living NDIS is a type of NDIS support designed for people who need help with daily living tasks, such as cooking, personal care, medication management, and cleaning — all while living independently, either on their own or with housemates.
The support is provided in a shared or individual home setting, depending on your preferences and SIL eligibility criteria. It is not about the physical home itself, but the support services offered within that environment.
SIL funding is provided through your NDIS plan, under the Core Supports budget. It’s tailored to the level of support you need, which is assessed during your NDIS planning or plan review meetings.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, speak with an NDIS planner or a provider like TK Community Care to help assess your SIL eligibility criteria.
2. Match Accommodation with Your Lifestyle and Support Needs
One of the biggest mistakes people make is focusing only on the home’s appearance or location. But SIL accommodation should also suit your daily routine, support requirements, and personality.
When visiting or shortlisting homes, ask:
- Will you live alone or share with others?
- Are the other residents compatible in terms of age, interests, and support needs?
- Does the provider offer 24/7 support or only during set hours?
- Is the home located near public transport, shops, hospitals, or community centres?
The goal is to find accommodation that allows you to thrive, not just survive.
At TK Community Care, we help you find SIL options that align with both your NDIS SIL checklist and your long-term goals — whether that means building independence, forming social connections, or simply living in a place that feels like home.
3. Assess the Quality and Flexibility of Support
Not all SIL providers offer the same level of service. You need to ask the right questions to ensure the support team is well-trained, compassionate, and equipped to meet your needs.
Consider:
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- Are support workers experienced with your specific disability or condition?
- Is the provider culturally sensitive or aligned with your personal values?
- Can you personalise your support schedule?
- What happens if your support needs change over time?
A strong provider will be proactive, adaptable, and always working in partnership with you. They’ll also encourage your independence, not limit it.
TK Community Care takes pride in delivering person-centred support, which means we listen, adjust, and work closely with each participant to offer tailored SIL services that grow with you.
4. Transparency Around SIL Funding and Costs
Understanding the SIL funding model is essential before making any commitments.
While SIL is funded through the NDIS, there can still be additional out-of-pocket costs, such as rent, food, utilities, and shared household items. Some providers bundle these into a service package, while others itemise them separately.
Be sure to ask:
- What is covered under my SIL funding?
- Are there any setup costs or deposits?
- Will I need to sign a tenancy agreement?
- Are rent and household contributions fair and clearly explained?
Using a detailed NDIS SIL checklist, like the one we provide at TK Community Care, can help you review each financial element clearly and avoid hidden surprises.
5. Reputation, Registration & Communication Style
Last but not least, take time to research the provider’s reputation and values. Choosing a provider isn’t just a service transaction — it’s a relationship. You deserve to work with someone who listens, respects your choices, and keeps you in the loop.
Look for:
- Are they a registered NDIS provider?
- Do they have positive testimonials or reviews?
- How responsive is their communication?
- Are they transparent about how they deliver services?
- Do they involve your family or carers in planning and feedback?
Trusted supported independent living providers like TK Community Care are NDIS-registered, meaning we meet strict quality and safety standards. We also provide clear communication every step of the way — from your first enquiry to ongoing plan reviews.
Quick NDIS SIL Checklist
Here’s a handy list to help you during your SIL decision-making process:
- Do I meet the SIL eligibility criteria?
- Does the accommodation suit my lifestyle and preferences?
- Are the support staff experienced and reliable?
- Is there transparency around costs and SIL funding?
- Is the provider NDIS registered with good reviews?
- Can I visit the home and meet the support team?
- Does the provider offer flexible, person-centred care?
- Is there a plan for future changes in my support needs?
Ready to Explore SIL Accommodation?
If you or a loved one is considering SIL accommodation, now is the perfect time to get the right advice and support.
TK Community Care is here to make your journey easier, clearer, and more empowering. From eligibility assessments to tailored support matching, we walk with you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about our NDIS Supported Independent Living options and discover a place you can truly call home.
