Introduction

If you, your family member, or someone you support is living with a disability and wants more independence, Supported Independent Living (SIL) in Sydney can be life-changing. But understanding how SIL works under the NDIS, what it covers, and how to choose the right SIL home can feel overwhelming.

This guide explains SIL in clear, practical terms – including what SIL is, who it’s for, how funding works, and what to look for in a SIL provider in Sydney. We’ll also show you how Paramount Care can support you every step of the way, from planning to moving into your new home.


What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support that helps people with disability live as independently as possible, usually in a shared home or specialist disability accommodation.

SIL focuses on the supports you receive at home, such as:

  • Support with personal care (showering, grooming, dressing)
  • Help with cooking, meal preparation and nutrition
  • Medication prompts and health monitoring
  • Support with domestic tasks (cleaning, laundry, household management)
  • Assistance with budgeting and daily planning
  • Building skills to live more independently over time

SIL funding pays for the staff support you receive, not the bricks and mortar of the property.


SIL vs SDA – What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse SIL (Supported Independent Living) with SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation). It’s common to have questions like “Do I need SIL, SDA, or both?”

Here’s the simple breakdown:

  • SIL = the support you receive at home
  • SDA = the home or building itself

You may receive SIL supports in:

  • A standard rental property
  • A group home or shared home
  • A purpose-built SDA apartment or villa designed for high accessibility needs

At Paramount Care, we provide SIL supports in a range of homes across Sydney, including our luxury SDA apartments in Schofields, our Glenmore Park SIL home, and our exclusive SIL development in Campbelltown.


Who Is SIL For?

SIL is best suited to NDIS participants who:

  • Need 24/7 support or regular daily assistance
  • Want to live more independently away from the family home
  • Would benefit from living with other people with similar support needs
  • Require help managing daily living tasks, routines and safety at home

Typically, SIL is appropriate for people with higher support needs, such as those who require active overnight support, complex care, or regular prompting and supervision.

If you’re unsure whether SIL is right for you, Paramount Care’s team can help you review your NDIS plan, your goals, and your current living situation.


How Does SIL Funding Work Under the NDIS?

SIL funding is usually included in the Core or Capacity Building supports sections of an NDIS plan and is based on a detailed assessment of your support needs.

Key points about SIL funding:

  • It is quotable – providers submit a detailed SIL quote to the NDIA
  • It is usually funded per person, per house, taking into account shared supports
  • It may include daytime and overnight supports, depending on your needs
  • It can be combined with SDA (for the home itself) and other supports like community access, allied health and support coordination

At Paramount Care, we work with you, your family, and your Support Coordinator to prepare accurate SIL quotes and supporting documentation so the NDIA can make an informed decision.


What Does Life in a SIL Home Look Like?

Every SIL home looks a little different, but you can generally expect:

  • Private bedroom (and sometimes ensuite) in a shared home
  • Shared spaces such as kitchen, living room, outdoor areas
  • Support workers on-site or nearby, depending on your support ratio
  • A consistent weekly routine – meals, activities, therapies, appointments
  • Opportunities to build skills and independence, e.g. cooking, shopping, using public transport
  • Social opportunities with housemates and the broader community

Paramount Care’s SIL homes in areas like Schofields, Glenmore Park and Campbelltown are designed to be safe, comfortable and homely – not clinical. We focus on matching housemates with compatible personalities and interests.


Key Benefits of SIL in Sydney with Paramount Care

Choosing Paramount Care as your SIL provider in Sydney means you benefit from:

1. Person-Centred, Goal-Driven Support

We align all SIL supports to your NDIS goals – whether that’s learning to cook independently, managing your own medication, or becoming more confident in the community.

2. Highly Trained Support Workers

Our team includes support workers experienced in:

  • Complex care support
  • Mental health support
  • Behaviour support implementation
  • Positive behaviour strategies and communication

3. Homes in Convenient Sydney Locations

We offer SIL options across Sydney, including:

  • Luxury SDA apartments in Schofields
  • A welcoming SIL home in Glenmore Park
  • An exclusive SIL development in Campbelltown

These locations are close to shops, healthcare, transport and community facilities.

4. Integrated Supports

Because Paramount Care also provides Everyday Supports, Allied Health, Community Participation, Support Coordination and Complex Care, we can help you build a seamless, wrap-around support network.


How to Access Supported Independent Living in Sydney – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Understand Your Needs

Discuss with your family, carers or Support Coordinator:

  • What support you need at home (days, evenings, overnights)
  • Whether you want to live alone or with others
  • Which areas of Sydney suit you best

Step 2: Check Your NDIS Plan

Look for references to:

  • “Supported Independent Living”
  • “Assistance with Daily Living”
  • “Increased Social and Community Participation”

If SIL isn’t yet in your plan, you may need a plan review.

Step 3: Talk to a SIL Provider

Contact a Sydney-based NDIS provider like Paramount Care to:

  • Discuss available SIL vacancies
  • Arrange a meet-and-greet or house tour
  • Start building a SIL quote, including a roster of care

Step 4: SIL Quote Submission to NDIA

With your consent, your provider and Support Coordinator will submit:

  • A detailed SIL quote
  • Reports from your therapist, GP or allied health team
  • Any supporting documentation about your daily support needs

Step 5: Move In and Settle

Once approved, you can:

  • Confirm your room and move-in date
  • Meet your housemates and support team
  • Start working towards your independence goals in your new home

Frequently Asked Questions About SIL in Sydney

1. Can I choose my SIL housemates?
Where possible, yes. We consider age, gender, routines, interests and compatibility to support positive house dynamics.

2. Do I need both SIL and SDA funding?
Not always. You can receive SIL in a standard home. SDA funding is only for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.

3. Can Paramount Care help if I’m moving from my family home?
Absolutely. We support with transition planning, visits to potential SIL homes, and coordination with your NDIS team.


Ready to Explore SIL Options in Sydney?

If you’re considering Supported Independent Living in Sydney, Paramount Care can help you understand your options, secure the right supports and find a home that truly feels like yours.

Contact us today on 1300 425 502 or submit an online referral form to start the conversation.