News

For people with disability looking for Supported Independent Living (SIL), finding a provider that goes beyond providing basic support can be life-changing. Melba is setting a high benchmark in the sector, offering a tailored, person-centred approach at no additional cost to those living in their SIL homes. 

A roadmap to a better quality of life 

This key difference putting Melba streets ahead of many other SIL providers is the commitment to Personal Outcome Measures Planning (POMS). This initiative ensures that people are not just receiving support but actively shaping their own futures through structured, goal-oriented planning. 

“Supported Independent Living is about more than just meeting people’s basic needs,” says Anneke Jurgens, General Manager, Practice, Quality & Safeguards at Melba. 

“POMS gives people we support the opportunity to identify and pursue personal goals in a meaningful way. It is really all about people living the life they choose and reaching their own chosen potential.” 

Melba’s POMS team meet with people where they live. Together with the person’s support team they conduct in-depth planning sessions, that reveal their wants, needs and aspirations. Goals are set and reviewed annually to keep focus and track progress. 

“The initial interviews are very thorough– there are 21 different indicators, covering different life areas, we unpack and explore these with the person and their support team and together we identify what a great life looks like for that person,” Anneke says. 

“This process also identifies if there’s any gaps, is there anyone else that we need to make referrals to? For example, if new or different communication tools would make it easier for someone to communicate we would seek a referral to a speech pathologist.” 

Additional best-practice support 

While POMS is a key point of difference for Melba, we also integrate best-practice models such as Practice Quality Coaches (PQS) and a dedicated Complex Health Team. 

A team of PQS coaches work alongside support workers to ensure people receive high-quality, consistent and person-centred support at all times.  

“Our PQS team plays a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of support,” Anneke says. “They mentor and coach Melba employees, ensuring best-practice approaches are followed, and ultimately help create a better experience for people we support. It’s imperative the relationship between our employees and the people we support is exceptional. That’s our number one priority.” 

Another benefit of being part of the Melba community is that everyone who lives in a 24/7 SIL home has access to a Complex Health Team. This team consists of three registered nurses who specialise in complex health support. They work closely with people we support, families, employees and healthcare providers to safeguard and promote the health and wellbeing of the people supported by Melba. 

“Our Complex Health Team embodies Melba’s human rights-based, wraparound support model,” Anneke says. “By working collaboratively, we ensure that people receive the highest standard of healthcare and support that is tailored to their unique needs.” 

Creating homes, not just houses 

Melba’s SIL homes offer more than just a place to live – they provide a sense of belonging. Our Meaningful Homes approach ensures people have a say in who they live with, where they live and how their home is designed, creating spaces that truly reflect their personalities and preferences. 

“We’re not just providing accommodation – we’re fostering environments where people feel comfortable, secure and in control of their lives,” Anneke says. 

The future of SIL at Melba 

With a presence across Central Highlands, Wimmera, Gippsland, Melbourne, and the Bayside Peninsula, Melba continues to expand its SIL offerings while staying true to its mission of empowering independence. 

“Our goal is to redefine what quality SIL looks like,” Anneke says. “We believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live their best life and we are committed to making that a reality.” 

For more information on Melba’s Supported Independent Living services, visit melbasupport.com.au or call 1300 696 352.  

For more information on Meaningful Homes, contact Ross Coverdale at 0419 390 556 or ross.coverdale@melbasupport.com.au.