Supported Independent Living (SIL) at Melbourne Disability Services

Empowering You to Live Independently

Your Home - Your Choice - Your Control

At Melbourne Disability Services (MDS), we provide NDIS-funded Supported Independent Living (SIL) options that focus on building your skills, maintaining your independence, and helping you feel safe, supported and in control of your everyday life.

SIL is more than just daily support, it's about creating a lifestyle that empowers you to achieve your goals, make meaningful choices and enjoy your home with confidence.
Whether you are seeking to live on your own or with others, we work with you to develop a living arrangement that aligns with your needs, preferences and long-term goals.

Our Approach to Supported Independent Living

We believe that your SIL journey should feel positive, empowering and personalised.

That’s why MDS takes a person-centred approach to everything we do, from matching you with the right home and housemates, to setting up a tailored support schedule that reflects your routines, interests and goals.

Our homes are designed to provide:

  • Safe, comfortable, NDIS-compliant environments
  • Shared living options with carefully matched housemates
  • Daily support focused on capacity building and independence
  • Culturally aware and compassionate support teams

 

Shared Accommodation: Finding the Right Fit

When you're living with other people and sharing supports, compatibility matters.

We carefully consider:

  • Your age, personality, lifestyle and interests
  • Your daily routines and preferred support times
  • The type of environment you thrive in
  • Your preferences around culture, language and social dynamics

We take the time to get to know you and ask the right questions to find housemates and a living setup you’ll feel comfortable and happy with.

Let us know what your ideal home looks like and we’ll help make it a reality.

 

SIL + SDA: Holistic Supported Accommodation

MDS specialises in delivering both Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for eligible NDIS participants.

We take a holistic approach, helping you:

  • Explore available SDA properties that match your support needs
  • Understand your SIL and SDA funding
  • Choose a home where your lifestyle, culture and personality are respected
  • Transition smoothly with support from our SIL coordination team

Our goal is to deliver accommodation solutions that reflect your individuality and empower you to live the life you want.

Why Choose MDS for SIL?

Registered NDIS Provider in Melbourne
Person-centred & culturally responsive approach
Extensive experience in matching residents with the right homes
Focus on independence, choice and skill development
We work directly with Support Coordinators, families, and stakeholders

Our SIL Process

Step 1

Speak to a SIL Specialist

Call us on  03 8351 9901, email SIL@melbournedisabilityservices.com.au or complete our SIL enquiry form to get started.

Step 2

Book an Intake Consultation

We’ll connect you with one of our friendly team members to understand your needs and what you're looking for in a new home.

Step 3

Visit Available Homes

We’ll arrange property tours so you can view available SIL homes and meet other residents, with your family, support person, or coordinator by your side.

Step 4

Support Your Transition

We work with your current providers and team to ensure a smooth and supported transition into your new home.

Ready to Find Your SIL Home?

Let MDS help you take the next step toward independent living with the right support. Accessing our Supported Independent Living (SIL) services is simple and hassle-free. Contact us on 03 8351 9901 or fill out the enquiry form below and one of our friendly team members will contact you to discuss your housing and support needs.

Express Your Interest Here!
First Name *
Surname *
Email *
Phone Number *
Age *
Gender *
Current Location *
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Preferred Location *
Your Disabilities / Impairment *
Do you have a current NDIS plan? *
Do you require a wheelchair accessible home? *
Do you require overnight support? *
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is NDIS Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support designed for people with disabilities who need help with daily tasks while living in a shared or independent home. SIL provides assistance with personal care, household tasks, and skill development, helping

2. Who is eligible for NDIS SIL funding?

To be eligible for NDIS SIL funding, you must:

  • Be an NDIS participant with an approved plan.
  • Have a permanent and significant disability requiring daily support.
  • Need assistance with personal care, household tasks, or social activities.
  • Live in or be willing to live in a shared or independent supported home.

Your eligibility is assessed by the NDIS planning team, who will determine if SIL is the right support for your needs.

3. How do I apply for NDIS SIL funding?

Applying for SIL funding involves these steps:

  1. Speak to your support coordinator or NDIS planner.
  2. Get an assessment to determine your daily support needs.
  3. Provide evidence from therapists, doctors, or caregivers to justify SIL funding.
  4. Submit your request during your NDIS plan review or planning meeting.
  5. Wait for approval – NDIS will assess your needs and decide if SIL is suitable for you.

A support coordinator can help navigate the process to ensure you receive the right funding.

4. What services are included in SIL?

  • SIL provides daily living support in a shared or independent home, including
  • Personal care – Assistance with showering, dressing, and grooming.
  • Household tasks – Cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
  • Medication management – Ensuring you take the right medications at the right time.
  • Skill development – Help with budgeting, meal planning, and social skills.
  • Community participation – Support to access local services and social activities.

The level of support varies based on individual needs and NDIS funding.

5. Can I choose my own SIL provider?

Yes! As an NDIS participant, you have full choice and control over selecting your SIL provider. When choosing a provider, consider:

  • Their experience in SIL support.
  • Whether they have vacancies in your preferred location.
  • If their staff are qualified and experienced.
  • Their reputation and reviews from other NDIS participants.

It’s important to choose a provider that aligns with your goals and support needs.

6. What factors affect my SIL funding?

Your NDIS SIL funding is based on several factors, including:
  • Level of support needed – Low, medium, or high support levels.
  • Number of housemates – Shared housing typically costs less.
  • Support requirements – Whether you need 24/7 support or specific hours.
  • NDIS assessment – Based on functional assessments and reports from health professionals.
Providing strong evidence of your support needs can help secure the right funding.

7. How can I find NDIS SIL vacancies near me?

To find SIL vacancies, you can:
  • Search online – Many SIL providers list vacancies on their websites.
  • Ask your support coordinator – They have access to available SIL homes.
  • Use NDIS housing platforms – Websites like NDIS Housing Hub list SIL vacancies.
  • Contact SIL providers directly – Many have waitlists and upcoming openings.
Adding your location to your search (e.g., "NDIS SIL vacancies in [your city]") can help find options near you.

8. What should I look for in a SIL provider?

When choosing an When choosing an NDIS SIL provider, look for:
  • Experienced and qualified support staff.
  • A safe and comfortable home environment.
  • Support that aligns with your needs and goals.
  • Flexibility in services and 24/7 support availability.
  • Positive reviews and testimonials from other NDIS participants.
Taking the time to research and visit different providers can help you find the best match.

9. Can I receive SIL funding while living alone?

SIL is typically for shared housing, but in some cases, you may qualify for SIL funding while living alone if:

  • You have high support needs requiring 24/7 care.
  • A shared living environment is not suitable for your condition.
  • NDIS assesses that living alone is the best option for your independence.

Speak with your support coordinator to see if individual SIL funding is right for you.

10. How long does it take to get approved for SIL?

The NDIS SIL approval process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on:

  • How quickly you submit supporting evidence.
  • The complexity of your support needs.
  • NDIS review times and their current backlog.

To speed up approval, ensure you provide a clear case for SIL funding with professional reports from therapists or doctors.

11. What is the difference between SIL and SDA?

SIL (Supported Independent Living) focuses on support services, while SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) is about the physical home itself.

  • SIL: Covers daily support workers, personal care, and household assistance.
  • SDA: Provides specially designed homes for those with high physical support needs.

Many participants receive both SDA and SIL if they require specialized housing and support.

12. What happens if I’m not happy with my SIL provider?

If you’re unhappy with your SIL provider, you can:
  • Raise your concerns with them directly.
  • Speak to your support coordinator for guidance.
  • Find a new SIL provider that better meets your needs.
  • Report serious concerns to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

You have the right to change providers if your current support is not working for you.