When it comes to choosing the disability supports you need, it's your life and your choice. We're here to support your decisions, so you can live life the way you want to.
Image: Three people sit a loungeroom, Belinda is in the centre in her wheelchair. Johno is on her left in a wheelchair, and John is on her right sitting on the couch. The background includes plants and a framed sign that reads ‘good day’.
At Life Without Barriers, we provide tailored Supported Independent Living (SIL) services to help people with disabilities live as independently as possible, while having easy access to your assisted living supports.
Our Disability Support Workers can be there 24/7 or they can provide day-to-day assistance. All our assisted living homes are designed to make you feel comfortable, safe and at home!
To help with your decision, we have put together frequently asked questions we receive about SIL.
What is Supported Independent Living?
Supported Independent Living is an NDIS-funded service that provides people with disabilities the opportunity to live independently or with others, while receiving support for daily tasks like cleaning, cooking, and personal care.
SIL services range from living alone to sharing a home with other individuals who have similar needs. Previously, this may have been known as group homes or disability accommodation. In SIL, you receive support on a daily basis, either from staff who drop in as needed or are on-site around the clock.
The assisted living support is different depending on your specific needs, but it can include help with:
Moving out for the first time
Learning to live well with others in a group setting
Dealing with the responsibilities of living in your own home
Getting ready for the day, eating healthily, and keeping well
Completing household tasks
Easy English – Shared and supported living at Life Without Barriers
Image: Photo of John and Yerilama gardening outdoors at their supported home in Darwin.
Who manages and works in Life Without Barriers’ SIL services?
Our team consists of experienced, trained professionals who are committed to supporting individuals in achieving their personal goals. The staff who work in group accommodation have special training. They know how to support people with disability. We choose our staff very carefully to make sure they are right for the job. We ask people with disability to help us choose.
Services available include:
Personalised program plans to reach your goals and aspirations
Assistance with social and recreational activities
Help managing appointments and completing forms
Support in maintaining household routines and independence
Accommodation and tenancy support, as needed
How many people will I be living with?
We offer a variety of homes in different sizes across multiple locations nationwide! We have different types of shared and supported living that you can choose.
Group accommodation is when a few people live together and share a house or apartment. There might be 2 to 5 people in your house. In group accommodation you can get extra support and help with everyday living.
Independent Living means you live by yourself, or with one or two other people, and get as much support as you need. This can include support all day and all night.
Do I need to move in full-time at first?
Your individual needs are our priority. We will work with you to create a plan that ensures a smooth transition into your new home. Whether it’s a full-time or part-time arrangement, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. There are different housing terms that might appear in your NDIS plan to help meet different needs. We can help with:
Medium-term accommodation: Temporary housing for you to live in while you wait for your permanent home or for your disability supports. Learn more about MTA
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): For people who have very high support needs and require specific features in their home. Learn more about SDA
Short-term accommodation (STA): STA is a home away from home in an inclusive, accessible, and supportive environment. Learn more about STA
Individualised living options (ILO): ILO is a package of supports that lets you choose where and how you live in the way that best suits your needs and wants. Learn more about ILO
Image: Port Macquarie house with a concrete driveway and a ramp at the front door.
Can I continue using my existing service provider?
Yes, we can help coordinate with your existing service providers (like doctors or therapists) to ensure continuity of care and that your personal goals are being met. This coordination is built into your SIL plan to ensure your needs are met.
You can ask someone else to help you make your plan, but you are in charge of your plan because it is about you. You can change your plan whenever you like!
Can my friends and family visit?
Absolutely! We encourage you to maintain strong connections with your loved ones. You are welcome to have visitors, and we can also help arrange transport so you can attend family events, celebrations, or social outings – including going on dates!
At Life Without Barriers, everyone has the right to make choices about intimacy, relationships and sexual experiences. We encourage the people we support to have experiences and make connections that enrich their lives. This includes pursuing relationships and exploring intimacy and sexuality. Just like Daniel!
Image: Daniel wearing a blue t-shirt, standing outdoors and smiling at the camera.
Where can I find homes with disability supports?
We have a range of homes available across Australia including in Alice Springs, Hobart, Rockhampton, Melbourne, Port Augusta, Sydney, Cairns, Newcastle and Perth. We match you to the best living situation based on your needs.
Current vacancies can be found here nationwide or find your state below!
Contact our team to find out about availability in your preferred location, you could live with Kelsey in Lavington, NSW, Len in Elsternwick, VIC or join the St Mary's home (pictured below) in NSW.
How do I find out more about Supported Independent Living?
Life Without Barriers offers more than just a house—we provide a supportive, comfortable environment where you can live your best life. Our team will work with you to design a tailored support plan that meets your unique needs. Whether you're looking for a new home or need help with NDIS eligibility, we're here to assist you.
We’d love for you to get in touch with us to discuss what you are looking for and how we can support you.
Call: 1800 610 699
Image: Louisa and another individual embrace and smile at the camera at their supported home in Blackburn South, VIC.
