Finding the right home can feel like a major decision for an NDIS participant. When you start searching for a “SIL house”, you may come across many homes, providers and support options. However, choosing a home involves more than finding a suitable property.
The right Supported Independent Living arrangement should help you feel safe, comfortable and more independent. It should also match your support needs, lifestyle and personal goals.
In 2026, there are also important changes to understand when looking for SIL. Knowing what SIL covers, what it does not cover and what to look for in a provider can make the process much easier.
What is a SIL house?
A SIL house is generally a shared living arrangement where people with disability receive Supported Independent Living supports. SIL provides funding for support workers to help or supervise participants with everyday activities.
Depending on your needs, you may share support workers with other residents or receive individual support. SIL can provide support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This may include help with personal care, cooking, eating, cleaning and other daily activities.
The main goal is not simply to provide assistance, SIL also aims to help you build skills and live as independently as possible.
However, SIL does not pay for everything associated with living in a home. Your SIL funding cannot cover rent, groceries or other ordinary day-to-day expenses.
SIL is not the same as SDA
One of the most common misunderstandings involves SIL and Specialist Disability Accommodation.
Although both can support a person’s living arrangements, they cover different types of NDIS support.
SIL pays for support workers who help you with daily living. SDA refers to specially designed housing for people with very high support needs.
SDA covers the home itself, while SIL covers the support you receive inside the home.
Some participants may have both SIL and SDA in their plans. Others may need different home and living options depending on their circumstances.
Understanding this difference can help you avoid choosing a home simply because someone describes it as a “SIL house”.
What should you look for in a SIL home?
There is no single home that works for every participant. Your ideal SIL home should fit your individual needs and preferences.
Start by considering the location. Think about how close the home is to family, friends, work, education, medical services, shops and community activities. A beautiful home may not feel suitable if it keeps you far away from the people and places that matter to you.
Next, consider accessibility and safety. Look at entrances, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens and common areas. Ask whether the home can support your current needs and whether it can continue to work for you if your needs change.
You should also think about the people you may live with. Shared living can work well when residents have compatible lifestyles and expectations. Ask the provider how they match residents and how they handle differences between housemates.
Most importantly, make sure the support model suits you. Ask how many support workers will be available, how staff handle overnight support and how the provider responds when your needs change.
Look beyond the property
A modern house does not automatically mean it is the right SIL arrangement. The provider plays a major role in your experience. Before making a decision, research the provider and ask questions about their experience, staff, communication and approach to individualised support.
The NDIS recommends researching providers, checking reviews and meeting potential providers before starting services. You can also use the NDIS Provider Finder to search for registered providers.
Ask the provider to explain your supports in plain language. You should understand what support you will receive, how often you will receive it and how the provider will communicate with you.
A service agreement can also help set clear expectations. It can outline the supports you will receive, costs, payment arrangements and how you can make changes to the agreement.
Check the provider's registration in 2026
The year 2026 brings an important change for people using SIL.
From 1 July 2026, SIL providers must be registered or have applied to register. Providers have until 1 October 2026 to apply for registration. If your current provider does not register, you may need to move to a registered provider. Your NDIS plan and funding will not change because of this requirement.
If you are choosing a new SIL provider, ask whether they are registered or whether they have applied to register. This can help you understand your options and avoid unexpected changes later.
Visit before you decide
Photos and online listings can only tell you so much. If possible, visit the home before making your decision.
Pay attention to how the home feels when you walk through it. Is there enough privacy? Do the shared areas feel comfortable? Can you imagine following your normal routine there?
Ask questions about household routines, meals, visitors, chores, privacy and shared spaces. You should also ask how the provider handles complaints, emergencies and changes in support needs.
Take your time. You do not need to choose a home simply because it is available.
Find a home that supports your future
The right SIL home should be more than a place to live. It should support your goals, independence and everyday choices.
Think about what you want your life to look like, not just what you need today. Consider the skills you want to develop, the activities you enjoy and the connections you want to maintain.
Your support coordinator can also help you explore providers and home and living options if you have support coordination funding.
Conclusion
Finding the right SIL home takes more than searching for a house with support workers. You need to consider the location, accessibility, housemates, support model, provider and your own long-term goals.
At Nexa Care, we understand that every participant has different needs, preferences and goals. We work closely with you to provide personalised SIL support that respects your choices and helps you build confidence and independence. If you are exploring SIL options in 2026, we are here to help you understand your choices and find a living arrangement that feels right for you.
Author Nexa Care
