Moving from SIL to more independent living
How to transition from Supported Independent Living toward a more independent arrangement as your skills and confidence grow, without losing the support you still need
Is moving on from SIL a good goal?
What might a more independent arrangement look like?
How do I transition safely?
Signs you might be ready for less support
How to step support down safely
Keeping a safety net in place
Talking to your provider about reducing support
Frequently asked questions
How do I evidence that I'm ready for less support?
An occupational therapist assessment showing your current capacity and progress is the strongest evidence, alongside input from your support workers and your own account of what you now manage. The aim is to show that a lighter arrangement is reasonable and necessary — matching support to where you are now, with a…
Can I increase support again if I need to?
Yes. Stepping down support isn't one-way — if a lighter arrangement isn't working, a plan reassessment can restore a higher level of support where the evidence shows it's necessary. That's exactly why keeping a safety net during the transition matters, so you can adjust without being left unsupported.
Can I move from SIL to more independent living?
Yes. As your skills and confidence grow, you can transition from full SIL toward a more independent arrangement — such as drop-in support or an ILO — with less rostered support but a safety net in place. Growing independence is a goal the NDIS supports, best done gradually and with evidence.
What comes after SIL?
Common next steps are drop-in support at set times, or an Individualised Living Option that blends some paid support with informal and community support. You might also move from a shared SIL house to living alone or with a chosen housemate.
Will I lose support if I become more independent?
The aim isn't to remove support you need — it's to match support to where you are now. Support steps down as your skills grow, with capacity-building help and a safety net, so you keep the support that's genuinely necessary.
How do I transition from SIL safely?
Go step by step with skill-building support and a safety net so you're never left unsupported. Work with your OT and support coordinator to evidence your progress and remaining needs, and adjust your plan at a reassessment to reflect the new, lighter arrangement.
What if more independence doesn't work out?
Keep a safety net during the transition — such as on-call support or a gradual step-down — so you can increase support again if needed. A reassessment can restore a higher level of support if the evidence shows it's necessary.