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Moving out of home into Supported Independent Living: a planning guide

Moving out of home is an exciting milestone – and a big decision. For people with disability and their families, preparing for the move into Supported Independent Living early can make the transition feel more manageable and help create a home that supports greater choice, confidence and independence. 

Whether moving out is a goal for the near future or several years away, this guide explains some of the important things to consider.

What is Supported Independent Living?

Supported Independent Living, commonly known as SIL, is assistance with everyday tasks for people who need a significant level of support at home. Depending on a person’s needs, SIL support may include: 

  • Personal care, such as showering, dressing and toileting 
  • Preparing meals, cleaning and doing laundry 
  • Taking medication and attending appointments 
  • Building everyday living skills 
  • Getting involved in household and community activities 
  • Overnight or 24/7 support 

SIL is about the support a person receives, not the building they live in. 

What is the difference between SIL and SDA?

Although the terms are often used together, Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) are different types of NDIS funding. 

SIL pays for the support provided in the home, such as help with personal care, household tasks and daily routines. 

SDA relates to the physical home itself. It funds specialist housing designed for people with very high support or accessibility needs. 

Not everyone who receives SIL funding needs SDA funding. CPA has some homes that do not require residents to have SDA funding, so it is worth discussing your individual circumstances with your Support Coordinator and the CPA team.

Don't have SIL or SDA funding?

We understand that everyone’s circumstances, goals, and funding arrangements are different. If you’re interested in a CPA home and have available Core funding, we encourage you to get in touch with our team. We are happy to discuss your individual situation, explore potential options, and help you understand what pathways may be available to support your housing goals.

Why future planning matters

Finding the right home can take time. Starting early gives you and your family space to understand your options, gather supporting evidence for the NDIS and think carefully about the kind of life you want. 

Planning ahead can also make it easier to explore suitable homes, meet potential housemates and prepare for the practical and emotional changes that come with moving. 

You do not need to have every answer before beginning the conversation.

Questions to think about before moving

A good starting point is to consider: 

  • Where would you like to live? 
  • Would you prefer to live alone or with housemates? 
  • What accessibility features do you need? 
  • How much support do you need during the day and overnight? 
  • What daily routines and activities are important to you? 
  • How close would you like to be to family, friends, work or community services? 
  • What interests or activities would you like to share with your housemates? 
  • What skills would you like to develop after moving?

Your answers can help identify the support arrangement and home environment most likely to suit you. 

The SIL Process with CPA

CPA’s experienced team can support you throughout the journey, from understanding your NDIS funding to choosing a suitable home and settling in.

The process generally includes (click to view image in new window): 

Explore CPA’s current SIL vacancies

CPA has Supported Independent Living vacancies across Sydney, Newcastle, the Hunter and the Central Coast. Explore CPA vacancy listings for information about our available properties, accessibility, location, housemates and the type of resident who may be a good fit.  If there are no current vacancies in your preferred area, you can join our waitlist, and we’ll let you know when a suitable home becomes available. 

Ready to start planning?

Moving out of home is a significant step, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Our approach is family-centred, flexible and focused on long-term wellbeing. Whether you’re ready to start planning or simply have a question, our friendly team is here to help you understand your options and plan a transition shaped around your needs, preferences and goals.

Call 1300 888 378, email ask@cerebralpalsy.org.au or submit an enquiry to start a conversation with our friendly team. 

There is no expectation to act now. Planning early simply gives families more choice later.

Download the Moving Out of Home Planning Guide

There is a lot to consider when planning a move into Supported Independent Living. Our free guide takes you through the process in more detail, with practical information and questions to help you think about your future home, support needs and next steps.

Download your free Moving Out of Home Planning Guide