Skip to main content
Donate

We help people reach their full potential and live their best life

We celebrate your unique potential. From education and job placement to mental health and community support, our range of services are designed to uplift and inspire. 

What is Supported Independent Living

Supported Independent Living is a type of support funded by the NDIS, helping people with a disability live as independently as possible while receiving assistance with daily tasks and personal care as needed in their own home. 

STEPS provides SIL services in shared accommodation, where participants live with other housemates and receive support from trained staff. STEPS can provide SIL services in your own home, shared living arrangements, Individualised Living Options (ILO), and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for people with higher support needs. Most STEPS homes have 24/7 on-site support, with select accommodations offering drop-in support only.

STEPS Bundaberg highlights

Usually found quietly sitting in class, Bernie helps our Individual Support participants learn safe techniques and practical care skills.

But Bernie had the opportunity to step out on the town and visit Bundaberg Regional CouncilOpens in new tab or window’s Careers Expo, meeting local students and sparking conversations about careers in the care industry.

STEPS Bundaberg highlights

Usually found quietly sitting in class, Bernie helps our Individual Support participants learn safe techniques and practical care skills. But Bernie had the opportunity to step out on the town and visit Bundaberg Regional CouncilOpens in new tab or window’s Careers Expo, meeting local students and sparking conversations about careers in the care industry.

NDIS funding and SIL eligibility

Supported Independent Living is funded under Assistance with Daily Life (Core Supports) in your NDIS plan. It covers the cost of the support staff and assistance – not rent, utilities, or personal expenses.  Navigating NDIS funding can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re exploring home and living supports for the first time. STEPS provides expert guidance throughout the whole process.

Contact

Who is Supported Independent Living for

SIL is designed for people with a disability who want to live more independently while still receiving the right level of support to feel safe, confident and supported in their home. 

SIL may be best suited to individuals who:

  • Require regular assistance with daily living tasks 
  • Benefit from having trained support workers available in the home 
  • Have higher or complex support needs 

Every person’s situation is different, which is why Steps takes the time to understand each participant’s strengths, preferences and long-term goals before recommending SIL. We work closely with the participants, their family, stakeholders and support workers to ensure each living arrangement is well-matched. If you’re unsure whether SIL is the right fit, our team can help you explore your choices and make an informed decision. 

How to access Supported Independent Living with STEPS

STEPS makes accessing SIL easy, even if you are navigating NDIS services for the first time. We welcome enquiries and referrals from participants and their families, carers, and disability support professionals. 

The STEPS SIL difference

Choosing the right Supported Independent Living provider is a big decision. We know your criteria goes beyond our services and funding; it’s really about trust, safety, and knowing that someone you care about will be supported with dignity and respect. 

Behind every enquiry we receive is a unique person, a family, and a story. Moving into SIL accommodation can be both exciting and daunting, so we are committed to making this transition as positive and stress-free as possible.

A not-for-profit provider with purpose

STEPS is a not-for-profit organisation committed to creating positive social impact across our communities. Every service we deliver is guided by our mission to support people with a disability to live independent and fulfilling lives. Our focus is always on long-term outcomes and quality support. When you choose STEPS, you choose a provider that reinvests in people, disability and education programs, and community.

Experienced, compassionate support team

Our Supported Independent Living (SIL) services are delivered by experienced and caring Support Workers who are passionate about making a positive difference. We prioritise continuity of staff wherever possible, helping our participants feel comfortable and secure in their home environment. Our teams receive ongoing training and professional support, leading to high-quality care. 

Getting started

To begin your Supported Independent Living journey with STEPS, reach out to our friendly Customer Care Team. 

Your Name

Please enter your comments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about Supported Independent Living and STEPS’ SIL services. If you have any additional questions, our friendly Customer Care Team is always happy to talk. 

What is the difference between Supported Independent Living and Specialist Disability Support?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is the personal care and daily living support provided to participants in their home. NDIS funding covers the cost of the support workers who assist with everyday tasks. 

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) relates to the physical building or dwelling itself. SDA funding is used for homes that are specially designed for people with complex physical needs. 

Many NDIS participants receive SIL services while living in SDA housing, but the two supports are separately funded and managed. STEPS only offers Supported Independent Living services. 

Do I need specific NDIS funding to access SIL?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is the personal care and daily living support provided to participants in their home. NDIS funding covers the cost of the support workers who assist with everyday tasks. 

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) relates to the physical building or dwelling itself. SDA funding is used for homes that are specially designed for people with complex physical needs. 

Many NDIS participants receive SIL services while living in SDA housing, but the two supports are separately funded and managed. STEPS only offers Supported Independent Living services. 

Can I choose where I live and who I live with?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is the personal care and daily living support provided to participants in their home. NDIS funding covers the cost of the support workers who assist with everyday tasks. 

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) relates to the physical building or dwelling itself. SDA funding is used for homes that are specially designed for people with complex physical needs. 

Many NDIS participants receive SIL services while living in SDA housing, but the two supports are separately funded and managed. STEPS only offers Supported Independent Living services. 

 

test link

What costs are not covered by SIL funding?

How long does it take to move into a SIL home?

What support is available overnight?

News from Steps Community Support

Notification test