Independent living

Living as autonomously as possible, with support arranged around a person’s own choices about daily life.

What it means

Independent living means living as independently as possible, with support arranged around a person's own choices about where they live, who they live with, and how they go about their daily life. It is about autonomy and control, not about doing absolutely everything unaided.

A person living independently still decides their own routines, from when they get up to how they spend their day, even if they use support workers or assistive technology to make those choices happen. The measure of independence is not how little help someone uses, but how much say they have over their own life.

In practice

In practice, independent living is enabled by a mix of supports tailored to the individual. This can include support workers who assist with personal care or daily tasks, assistive technology such as equipment or devices, and sometimes changes to a home that make it easier to move around and use safely.

The right combination depends on the person. One person might need help in the morning and then manage the rest of the day on their own; another might use technology to prompt tasks or stay connected. The NDIS can fund supports that build a person's capacity and independence over time. The goal is a living arrangement where the person is genuinely in control, with support filling the gaps rather than taking over.

A real example

For example, Amara wanted to live in her own unit rather than share a group home. With a support worker helping with morning routines and some assistive technology to manage her medication reminders, she now runs her own day and decides her own routine, which is exactly the kind of control independent living is about.

Independent living — FAQs

Does independent living mean doing everything on my own?
No. Independent living is about autonomy and control over your life, not doing everything unaided. You can use support workers, assistive technology and other supports and still be living independently. What matters is that you make the choices about where and how you live and how your daily routines run.
Can the NDIS help me live independently?
Yes, where supports are reasonable and necessary. The NDIS can fund things like assistance with daily tasks, support to build your skills and independence, and assistive technology. These supports are arranged around your own goals and choices. Talk with your planner about what living more independently looks like for you and what would help you get there.
What kinds of support enable independent living?
A range of supports can help, depending on the person. These include support workers who assist with personal care or daily tasks, assistive technology such as devices and equipment, capacity-building supports that develop skills, and sometimes home modifications. The right mix is individual and is designed to give you more control over your daily life.
How is independent living different from a group home?
Independent living focuses on your own choices about where and how you live, which may or may not involve living with others. A group home is one shared arrangement, but it is not the only option. Many people live independently in their own place with tailored supports. The key is that the arrangement reflects your preferences and gives you control.
Can assistive technology support independent living?
Yes. Assistive technology, from equipment and devices to simpler aids, can remove barriers and let a person do more for themselves and with more confidence. It is often a key part of living independently. Where it is reasonable and necessary and clearly linked to your goals, the NDIS may fund assistive technology as part of your plan.

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Official NDIS sources

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