Choosing Between Shared Living and SIL: Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing the right accommodation is an important step towards living more independently. Many NDIS participants compare Shared Living and Supported Independent Living (SIL) because both provide accommodation and support, but they are designed for different lifestyles, goals, and levels of assistance. Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make an informed decision based on your daily support needs, preferred living arrangements, and long-term independence goals. Whether you value a shared community environment or require more structured daily support, selecting the right accommodation can have a positive impact on your wellbeing and quality of life.
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What Is Shared Living?
Shared Living is an NDIS accommodation option where participants live with other people in a shared home while receiving the support they need to live as independently as possible. It offers a balance between independence and assistance, creating a supportive environment where participants can build daily living skills, form social connections, and enjoy a sense of community.
Unlike more structured accommodation models, Shared Living focuses on flexible support that adapts to each participant’s goals, preferences, and lifestyle. It is often a suitable option for people who enjoy living with others while maintaining choice and control over their daily lives.
Through Shared Living, participants can benefit from:
- Living with others in a shared home
- Flexible daily support
- Shared household responsibilities
- Community participation and social connections
- Greater independence in everyday life
What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS support designed for participants who require ongoing assistance with daily tasks while living as independently as possible. Rather than focusing on the accommodation itself, SIL funds the support services participants receive in their home to help them manage everyday life.
The level of support is based on each participant’s individual needs and may range from a few hours each day to 24/7 assistance. Through Supported Independent Living (SIL), participants can develop practical life skills while receiving the support needed to achieve their goals.
SIL commonly includes:
- Personal care
- Household assistance
- Meal preparation
- Daily living skill development
- Medication support
- 24/7 support where required
Shared Living vs Supported Independent Living (SIL): Key Differences
Although both Shared Living and Supported Independent Living (SIL) help participants live more independently, they differ in the level of support provided, living arrangements, and funding.
| Feature | Shared Living | Supported Independent Living (SIL) |
|---|---|---|
| Living Arrangement | Shared home with other participants | Individual or shared home with funded support |
| Support Level | Flexible support based on daily needs | Ongoing daily support, including 24/7 where required |
| Independence | Encourages shared responsibilities and community living | Focuses on building independence through structured support |
| NDIS Funding | May be funded depending on the support required | Funded as an NDIS support for eligible participants |
| Daily Routine | More flexible and collaborative | Individualised support based on personal goals |
| Best Suited For | Participants who enjoy living with others and require lower to moderate support | Participants who require regular assistance with everyday living tasks |
Choosing between Shared Living and SIL depends on your personal goals, daily support requirements, and the level of independence you want to achieve. Discussing your options with your support coordinator or provider can help determine which arrangement best suits your circumstances.
Benefits of Shared Living
Shared Living offers more than just accommodation—it provides an opportunity to build confidence, develop relationships, and enjoy a greater sense of belonging within the community.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Stronger social connections
- Shared experiences with others
- Increased independence
- Reduced social isolation
- Greater community participation
Benefits of Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is designed to help participants live safely and independently while receiving the assistance they need to achieve their personal goals. The support is tailored to each individual, promoting greater choice, confidence, and long-term independence.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Personalised daily support
- Assistance with everyday living
- Greater independence
- Life skill development
- Long-term support tailored to individual needs
Which Option Is Right for You?
The best accommodation option depends on your lifestyle, support needs, and long-term goals. While some participants thrive in a shared environment with flexible support, others benefit from the structured assistance available through Supported Independent Living.
Shared Living May Suit You If…
- You enjoy living with other people.
- You want to build friendships and social connections.
- You prefer a flexible support arrangement.
- You can manage many daily tasks with minimal assistance.
- You value a community-focused living environment.
Supported Independent Living (SIL) May Suit You If…
- You require regular assistance with daily living activities.
- You need ongoing personal care or household support.
- You want to develop independent living skills with structured guidance.
- You require higher levels of support, including overnight or 24/7 assistance.
- Your NDIS plan includes funding for Supported Independent Living.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, speaking with your support coordinator or an experienced NDIS provider can help you understand your choices and identify the accommodation that best aligns with your goals.
How Are Shared Living and SIL Funded?
Both Shared Living and Supported Independent Living (SIL) can be funded through the NDIS when they are considered reasonable and necessary to help a participant achieve their goals. Funding is based on individual circumstances, support needs, and the evidence provided during the NDIS planning process.
Your funding may depend on:
- Your NDIS plan and goals
- Functional assessments
- Reports from allied health professionals
- Your daily support requirements
- Your NDIS plan meeting
It’s important to note that SIL funding generally covers the support you receive rather than the cost of the accommodation itself. Eligibility and funding are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Shared Living and SIL Services in Perth
Finding the right accommodation is about more than choosing where to live—it’s about finding the right level of support to help you live independently and achieve your goals. At Elmur Community Services, we support participants across Canning Vale, Thornlie, Harrisdale, Southern River, Gosnells, and surrounding Perth suburbs to explore accommodation options that suit their individual needs and NDIS plans.
Whether you’re interested in Shared Living, Supported Independent Living (SIL), or our broader NDIS accommodation services, our team works closely with you to identify the most suitable option and provide ongoing support throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Shared Living and SIL?
Shared Living focuses on living with others in a supportive environment with flexible assistance, while Supported Independent Living (SIL) provides funded daily support for participants who require ongoing help with everyday activities.
2. Is Shared Living funded by the NDIS?
Shared Living may be funded by the NDIS if the supports you require are considered reasonable and necessary and align with your NDIS plan and goals.
3. Can I move from Shared Living to SIL?
Yes. If your support needs change over time, your NDIS plan can be reviewed to determine whether Supported Independent Living (SIL) is a more suitable option.
4. Who qualifies for SIL?
SIL is generally available to participants who require regular support with daily living tasks and have been assessed as needing ongoing assistance to live independently.
5. Which option provides more independence?
Both options promote independence in different ways. Shared Living encourages independence through shared responsibilities and community living, while SIL provides structured support to help participants develop the skills needed to manage everyday life.
Looking for Shared Living or SIL Support in Perth?
Whether you’re exploring Shared Living or Supported Independent Living (SIL), Elmur Community Services can help you understand your accommodation options and find the support that best matches your goals, lifestyle, and NDIS plan.
Our team works with participants across Canning Vale, Thornlie, Harrisdale, Southern River, Gosnells, and surrounding Perth suburbs, providing personalised guidance to help you make informed decisions about your living arrangements and ongoing support.
Email: info@elmur.com.au
Phone : (08) 6558 8814
Website : Elmur Community Services
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