Have you wondered how to get funding for Supported Independent Living? You are not alone! Let’s break down some information, and let you know where you can go for advice. Remember every situation is different, so it’s important to check your eligibility with the required channels.

Where Does Funding Come From?

In Australia, funding for supported independent living (SIL) primarily comes from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS Website states that:

The NDIS provides funding to eligible people with disability to gain more time with family and friends, greater independence, access to new skills, jobs, or volunteering in their community, and an improved quality of life. 

Souce: https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/what-ndis

Did you know, in Australia the NDIS now supports over 500,000 people with disabilities! Ensuring they have access to supports and services they need.

Here’s How You Can Access Funding For SIL Through The NDIS:

• Eligibility Assessment: The first step is to determine if you’re eligible for the NDIS. Eligibility criteria include age, residency status, and the impact of your disability on your daily life. You can check your eligibility and apply for access through the NDIS website, or by contacting the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
• NDIS Planning Meeting: If you’re deemed eligible for the NDIS, you’ll have a planning meeting with a planner or coordinator from the NDIA. During this meeting, you’ll discuss your goals, needs, and the supports you require to live independently. This includes your need for supported independent living arrangements.
• SIL Funding: Based on your assessed needs and goals, the NDIA will allocate funding for supports and services, including SIL, in your NDIS plan. SIL funding covers the costs associated with having support workers assist you with tasks related to daily living, such as personal care, cooking, cleaning, and accessing the community.
• Choosing a Provider: Once you have your NDIS plan, you can start researching and selecting SIL providers. These providers offer accommodation and support services tailored to your needs and preferences. You can choose to live in a shared living arrangement with other participants or in a solo setting, depending on your preferences and goals. LME Care is a registered NDIS Provider and specialises in Supported Independent living.

Sorted Funding? Now What?

It’s important to work with your SIL provider and your team to ensure you determine your goals and milestones. Here’s what should happen:

• Negotiating Support Arrangements: Work with your chosen SIL provider to negotiate the specific support arrangements that suit you best. This includes determining the level of support you require, the rostering of support workers, and any other preferences you may have regarding your living environment.

• Managing Your Funding: SIL funding is managed through your NDIS plan. You can choose to manage the funding yourself, have a plan manager assist you, or opt for NDIA-managed funding. Your provider will work with you to ensure that your funding is used effectively to meet your support needs.
• Regular Reviews: Your NDIS plan will be reviewed regularly to assess your ongoing needs and make any necessary adjustments to your funding and support arrangements. It’s essential to actively participate in these reviews to ensure that your plan continues to meet your changing needs and goals.

Are There Other Ways To Get Funding That’s Not Through NDIS?

Yes, some local state-based disability support programs are available, but not in all states. There may also be some support programs or grants available from charitable organisations. Eligibility for this will vary depending on the charity and your situation.

In most cases, the NDIS is the primary avenue for accessing Supported Independent Living funding.

Are you ready to speak to someone about Supported Independent Living? Our dedicated team at LME Care are available to help walk you through each step, and to find the best support that suits your needs.