SIL quotes and service agreements explained
The difference between a SIL quote sent to the NDIA and the service agreement you sign with your provider — and what to check in each before you commit
What is a SIL quote?
What is a SIL service agreement?
How is a service agreement different from a tenancy agreement?
What should I check before signing?
From quote to move-in: the order things happen
Make sure the quote and the agreement match
What happens when you are away — hospital, holidays and absences
Changing or ending a service agreement
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a SIL quote and a service agreement?
The SIL quote is submitted to the NDIA to request your funding — it sets hours, ratios and overnight support. The service agreement is the contract between you and your provider for delivering that support, covering services, fees, notice periods and how to raise problems.
Can I see the SIL quote before it goes to the NDIA?
Yes. You are entitled to see the SIL quote and the Roster of Care behind it. Ask for it in writing and check the hours, ratios and overnight type reflect your real week before it is submitted.
Is a SIL service agreement the same as a tenancy agreement?
No. A service agreement covers your support; a tenancy or residency agreement covers your right to live in the home and your rent. In a SIL house you may sign both, sometimes with different organisations.
What should I check in a SIL service agreement?
Check that the support matches your Roster of Care, the fees and budget drawdown are clear, the notice period to leave is reasonable, the complaints process is explained, and the agreement is not tied to your housing so leaving the provider doesn't cost you your home.
Can I get help reviewing a SIL agreement?
Yes. A support coordinator, disability advocate, family member or the provider's own staff can walk through it with you. You should never feel pressured to sign immediately — take it away and read it first.
What happens to my SIL if I go into hospital?
It depends on your service agreement, which is why you should read the absence clause before signing. Support is generally not delivered while you are an inpatient, but billing, held places and vacancy rules vary between providers. Ask your provider to explain their hospital and absence terms in writing.
Can I change SIL providers if it is not working out?
Yes. Your SIL funding is attached to you, not the provider, so you can move to another provider by giving the notice set out in your service agreement. Line up your new provider first where possible, give notice in writing, and ask a support coordinator or advocate to help with the transition.
What if the NDIA funds less than the SIL quote requested?
Then your service agreement must be based on what was actually funded, not the original quote. Ask the provider how they will deliver support within the funded amount, and if you believe the funded level is too low to meet your needs, you can request a review of the decision with further evidence.