Yes, some NDIS participants can receive Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding while living alone. Whether SIL is funded depends on a participant's individual support needs and circumstances, not simply whether they live alone or with other people.
The NDIS assesses each participant individually to determine whether SIL is a reasonable and necessary support and whether it is the most appropriate way to meet their needs.
Is SIL Only for People Living in Shared Housing?
No.
Many people associate Supported Independent Living (SIL) with shared homes or group living arrangements, but SIL is not a type of housing.
SIL is a Home and Living support that funds assistance with daily tasks and personal support at home for participants who need significant support because of the impact of their disability.
The NDIS focuses on the support a participant needs rather than the type of home they live in.
Can SIL Be Funded for Someone Living Alone?
Yes, in some circumstances.
The NDIS may fund SIL for a participant who lives alone if the evidence demonstrates that significant support is required at home and SIL is the most appropriate support option.
Each decision is made based on the participant's individual circumstances, goals, support needs and available evidence.
What Does the NDIS Consider?
When considering SIL for someone living alone, the NDIS may look at:
- The participant's support needs
- Functional capacity
- Risks and safety considerations
- Current living arrangements
- Existing supports
- Informal supports available
- The participant's goals and preferences
- Whether SIL represents value for money compared to alternative supports
The NDIS considers all of these factors together rather than relying on a single criterion.
Does Living Alone Make SIL Harder to Get?
Not necessarily.
However, the NDIS will consider whether the proposed support arrangement is reasonable and necessary and whether it is the most appropriate way to meet the participant's needs.
Because shared support arrangements can sometimes reduce support costs, the NDIS may consider whether alternative arrangements could meet the participant's needs.
This does not mean participants must live with others to receive SIL.
The NDIS assesses each situation individually.
What Evidence May Support a SIL Request?
Strong evidence helps the NDIS understand how disability affects a participant's daily life and what support is required.
Evidence may include:
- Functional Capacity Assessments
- Occupational therapy reports
- Behaviour support assessments
- Allied health reports
- Medical information
- Information about current support arrangements
- Evidence of support needs at home
The NDIS uses available evidence to determine whether SIL is appropriate.
What If I Currently Live With Family but Want to Live Alone?
Many participants use Home and Living planning to explore future living goals.
If living independently is one of your goals, the NDIS may consider:
- The support you would need to live safely
- Your capacity to develop independent living skills
- Available support options
- The sustainability of your current arrangements
The NDIS does not automatically fund SIL because someone wants to move out of home, but a participant's goals are an important part of planning discussions.
Can I Live Alone Without SIL?
Yes.
Many participants live alone without receiving SIL funding.
The NDIS funds a range of supports that may help people live independently, depending on their needs and circumstances.
The most appropriate support arrangement will depend on the participant's individual goals and support requirements.
Is SIL the Only Home and Living Option?
No.
The NDIS funds a range of Home and Living supports.
Depending on a participant's circumstances, other options may include:
- Individualised Living Options (ILO)
- Capacity-building supports
- Core supports
- Other home and living arrangements
The NDIS considers which support arrangement best meets a participant's needs and goals.
Can I Choose Who Supports Me If I Live Alone?
Support arrangements vary depending on the participant's circumstances and the way supports are delivered.
Many participants value:
- Continuity of care
- Consistent support workers
- Choice and control
- Long-term support relationships
Participants should discuss available options with their provider, support coordinator, or planner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive SIL while living alone?
Yes. Some participants receive SIL funding while living alone. The NDIS assesses each participant individually based on their support needs and circumstances.
Do I have to live in a group home to get SIL?
No. SIL is a support funding arrangement, not a type of housing.
Does living alone automatically qualify me for SIL?
No. SIL is not based on housing arrangements alone. The NDIS considers support needs, evidence and individual circumstances.
What evidence is needed for SIL when living alone?
The NDIS may consider Functional Capacity Assessments, allied health reports, support needs assessments and other evidence explaining the participant's support requirements.
Can I move from living with family to living alone with SIL?
Potentially. The NDIS considers each participant's goals, support needs and circumstances when assessing Home and Living supports.
Is SIL the same as Independent Living Options (ILO)?
No. SIL and ILO are different Home and Living supports with different purposes.
Read: What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Read: How Does Supported Independent Living (SIL) Funding Work?
Read: Can I Choose My Own Support Workers in Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Read: Am I Eligible for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Read: Supported Independent Living (SIL) Registration Changes Explained
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