Supported Independent Living: making the right choice
Choosing where you live is deeply personal. It shapes your routines, relationships, independence, and how you feel day to day. That’s why when it comes to Supported Independent Living (SIL), getting the right fit matters.
If you’re exploring your options, you might be wondering how to make the right choice to get the support you need, while still living life your way.
Let’s walk through it together.
Understanding Supported Independent Living requirements
Supported Independent Living NDIS funding is for people who need regular, ongoing support to live independently and comfortably at home.
If you’re able to live independently with little or no support, SIL might not be the right fit. In this case, there are often other supports that may be more suitable, such as Melba’s Individualised Support Arrangements (ISA). Melba’s ISA (one to one support) provides you with more options on how you manage your own support to create a more flexible experience that suits your lifestyle.
When considering SIL funding, the NDIS looks at the level of support you need in your day to day life. This can include asking questions like:
Do you…
Nobody wants to feel like they’re being “put” into a house that doesn’t feel right for them.
You should:
It can help to involve family members, friends or other people you trust, so you feel supported during your SIL experience.
At Melba, Supported Independent Living is about you having the freedom to live life your way. We understand that independence looks different for everyone, it’s about what’s right for you.
A common concern we hear is around SIL availability. While there may, at times, be limited vacancies, that should never mean you have to settle for something that doesn’t feel right for you and your way of life.
A good provider, like Melba, will:
The right home for you is worth waiting for, and the right provider will support you through that process, not pressure you into a quick decision.
At Melba we partner with a range of providers and developers who are equally committed to improving the housing options and lives of people with disability across Victoria.
Shared living can be incredibly rewarding bringing friendships, shared routines and a sense of community, but only when the people you live with are a good fit.
You might be wondering:
Concerns about housemates you are about to live with are very real. These are all details that matter, and why thoughtful matching is so important.
If you’re considering shared living, it’s worth asking if you can meet potential housemates beforehand to get a feel for compatibility.
It’s also important to think about what matters to you in a housemate. For instance, do you want a quiet housemate, or perhaps you’re looking for someone who can lift the house vibes?
Our focus isn’t just on finding you a place to live but helping you find a home. Here’s how that looks in practice:
It starts with you
What you like, your routines and interests come first. Whether you’re someone who loves a quiet space or a more social environment, these things shape the options we explore together.
Careful matching, not quick placements
We take the time to consider compatibility, not just availability. We carefully discuss with you who you might live well with from shared interests to communication styles and lifestyle patterns.
Opportunities to connect before deciding
Where possible, you’ll have the chance to meet potential housemates, visit the house, and get a feel for the environment before making any decisions.
Flexibility and ongoing support
We keep communication open, so if something doesn’t feel right, we can work with you to adjust and improve your experience.
A partnership
This is about you finding your home, it’s about your life. We’re here to support and provide guidance and information, not make decisions on your behalf.
Making a decision about Supported Independent Living is important, but it should never feel overwhelming or out of your control. Take your time, ask questions, and lean on the support around you.
The right SIL setup isn’t just about meeting NDIS requirements, it’s about creating a space where you can truly feel at home.
With more than 50 years of experience, Melba is a registered NDIS provider of tailored disability support services across Victoria.
We do things differently at Melba, we call it The Melba Way. At the heart of The Melba Way is recognising every person as unique, with your own personality, interests and abilities. We take the time to really get to know you and celebrate what makes you who you are. This understanding shapes our approach, ensuring the support we provide always fits your needs and lifestyle.
If you are looking for respite services for yourself or someone else, we’re here to walk you through the process.
Share