Your 2025 Guide to NDIS SIL Housing: What You Need to Know Before Making the Move

Choosing the right NDIS SIL Housing is a bit like finding the perfect flatmate — it takes time, the right questions, and a good dose of honesty. But instead of just sharing the kitchen, you’re also navigating complex support needs, daily routines, and personal goals. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, you’re not alone. That’s why we’ve pulled together this beginner-friendly guide to help you make the right decision in 2025. 

Whether you’re in Brisbane’s leafy suburbs, down on the Gold Coast, or out west in Toowoomba, understanding how SIL housing works can help you or a loved one live more independently — and with the support that actually fits your lifestyle. 

What Is SIL Housing and How Does It Work? 

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a funded support under the NDIS that provides help with daily tasks so people with disability can live as independently as possible. It’s typically suited to people who live in shared accommodation but need assistance with things like: 

• Personal care 

• Cooking and cleaning 

• Medication management 

• Social activities and routines 

The funding doesn’t cover rent or day-to-day expenses, but it does pay for the support workers and services that make day-to-day life manageable. 

Important Note: SIL is different from SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation). SIL refers to the support you receive, not the bricks and mortar you live in. 

Who Is SIL Suitable For? 

Not everyone on the NDIS needs or qualifies for SIL. It’s most commonly used by people with higher support needs who require 24/7 or regular assistance, either in their own home or shared housing. 

You might be a good fit for SIL if: 

• You need help with daily tasks most days 

• You want to live more independently 

• You prefer living with others who also receive support 

What Should You Look for in a SIL Provider? 

Choosing the right provider is more than ticking boxes on a checklist. It’s about quality of care, cultural understanding, and a support team that actually listens. 

Here are a few key questions to ask: 

• Are support staff trained and experienced? 

• How flexible is the support schedule? 

• Do you get a say in who you live with? 

• Is the house well-located — close to transport, shops, or your community? 

• Is the provider registered with the NDIS? 

In places like Logan or Ipswich, where housing options can vary widely, these questions really matter. 

Why Location Still Matters 

Let’s face it, no one wants to be stuck in a house that’s a 2-hour drive from your friends or GP. Whether you’re in regional Queensland or an urban area, location can have a massive impact on your wellbeing. 

For instance: 

• Access to public transport is vital for independence 

• Nearby health services make appointments easier 

• Community engagement opportunities help build confidence and reduce isolation 

Here’s a snapshot of how location impacts satisfaction with SIL arrangements (survey data from 2024): 

Source: Community Support & Housing Australia (2024) 

What’s the Cost of SIL? (And What Does NDIS Cover?) 

Here’s where it gets a little complex. NDIS funding for SIL is determined through an individual assessment and outlined in your plan. This includes your: 

• Functional capacity 

• Daily support needs 

• Living arrangements 

The funding is generally provided under Core Supports in your plan. But remember — it doesn’t cover rent, groceries, or utilities. Those are separate expenses. 

If you’re just starting out, having a knowledgeable provider like ADCS on your side can help you navigate this without the usual paperwork headache. 

What’s New in 2025? 

With the rollout of updated NDIS guidelines this year, here are a few trends to be aware of: 

1. Increased focus on participant choice — more say in who you live with and how you’re supported 

1. Flexible roster models — allowing participants to co-design their support plans 

1. Greater emphasis on cultural competency — important for First Nations and CALD participants 

There’s also a growing number of SIL providers offering tailored homes that support independence but still offer backup support when needed. From modern townhouses to adaptive homes designed for mobility access, the housing choices are expanding. 

Real Talk: Common SIL Myths (Busted) 

• “SIL means I’ll lose my independence.”
  Quite the opposite. SIL is there to support your independence, not replace it. 

• “I won’t get a say in who I live with.”
  A good provider will involve you in every step, including matching housemates. 

• “It’s all too expensive.”
  SIL is funded through your NDIS plan, and with the right support, your out-of-pocket expenses can be minimal. 

The Role of Your Support Coordinator 

While SIL funding can be approved through your plan, your Support Coordinator plays a crucial role in linking you to providers, arranging house visits, and negotiating service agreements. Don’t underestimate how valuable their input can be — especially if you’re new to the system. 

Choosing a Provider Who Gets It 

In 2025, there’s no room for one-size-fits-all disability services. You want a provider that offers: 

• Personalised care plans 

• Local knowledge of your community 

• Reliable and compassionate staff 

• Commitment to your long-term goals 

And that’s where ADCS comes in. 

Why ADCS? 

At ADCS, we don’t just offer NDIS SIL housing options — we provide a supportive environment where you can truly thrive. Whether you’re just exploring options or ready to make the move, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience, a focus on dignity and respect, and a strong connection to local communities, we help participants live the life they choose. 

Final Thought 

Choosing NDIS SIL housing is a big step — but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. With the right provider, the right house, and the right support, it can be the start of a new chapter filled with independence, stability, and confidence. 

So whether you’re just beginning your NDIS journey or ready to take the next step in your living arrangement, remember: the support you choose today can shape the life you lead tomorrow.