Level Up Your Independence: How SIL and ILO Unlock Real Possibilities

December 27, 2025

Independence looks different for everyone and that’s exactly why the NDIS offers flexible home-and-living options like Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Individualised Living Options (ILO). These supports aren’t just about where you live. They’re about how you live, who you live with, and the kind of life you want to build.


At BB Disability and Mental Health Services, we help participants explore these options so they can choose the path that truly reflects their goals, personality and independence. Here’s how SIL and ILO can help you level up your independence and unlock real, everyday possibilities.


What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?


Supported Independent Living is designed for people who need regular, ongoing, or 24/7 support in their home. It’s ideal for individuals who want to live in shared accommodation or a group home but still have:


  • Choice over their routines
  • The freedom to make decisions
  • A supportive environment that meets their daily needs


SIL provides help with:


  • Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
  • Medication reminders
  • Meal planning and preparation
  • Housekeeping and home safety
  • Skill building (cooking, cleaning, money management)
  • 24/7 support, depending on your NDIS plan


For people who need a higher level of assistance, SIL creates structure, safety and stability — without taking away independence.


What Is Individualised Living Options (ILO)?


ILO is all about you designing your own ideal living situation fully tailored, flexible and deeply personal. It’s perfect for people who want control over how they live but still need some support to do so safely and comfortably.


ILO lets you choose:


  • Where you live (apartment, unit, family home, shared home, granny flat)
  • Who you live with (friends, housemates, alone, or with a host arrangement)
  • How you want support delivered (check-ins, drop-ins, help from a host, overnight support, or tailored routines)


ILO focuses on:


  • Building independence
  • Creating meaningful community connections
  • Designing a support plan that matches your lifestyle
  • Giving you more freedom and choice than traditional models



ILO is perfect for people who don’t need round-the-clock supervision but still benefit from personalised, structured support.

SIL vs ILO What’s the Difference?


Supported Independent Living (SIL)


  • More structured
  • Often 24/7 support
  • Usually in shared accommodation
  • Ideal for people who need daily personal care and regular supervision
Supported Independent Living

Individualised Living Options (ILO)


  • Fully custom-designed
  • Support is flexible not 24/7
  • You decide where and how you live
  • Great for people wanting more independence with the right level of help

Think of SIL as a supportive framework and ILO as a personalised blueprint for how you want to live.

How These Supports Unlock Real Possibilities

1. More Independence, More Confidence

Whether it’s learning new skills, managing your own home, or taking on new responsibilities, SIL and ILO give you the freedom to grow at your own pace.

2. The Power of Choice

Both options put you in control.

 You choose:

  • Where you live
  • Who supports you
  • What your daily routine looks like

Because independence starts with having a say.

3. Safer, Supportive Living Environments

Trained support workers help you stay safe, healthy and confident in your home — without limiting your autonomy.

4. Building Everyday Life Skills

Cooking, budgeting, cleaning, organising, planning these aren’t just tasks, they’re stepping stones to long-term independence.

5. More Community Connection

Support isn’t just about home life. SIL and ILO help you join social groups, attend activities, make friends and participate in your community.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between SIL and ILO depends on your lifestyle, goals and support needs.

You may fit better with SIL if:

  • You need regular, high-level or 24/7 support
  • You enjoy living with others
  • You benefit from a structured, routine-based environment

You may thrive with ILO if:

  • You want more say in how and where you live
  • You’re working toward greater independence
  • You need flexible support, not constant supervision
  • You want a living arrangement built uniquely for you

At BB Disability and Mental Health Services, we help you explore both options clearly, simply and with your goals at the centre of the conversation.

Empowering Your Living, Your Way

Your home should reflect your dreams, your identity and your lifestyle. With SIL and ILO, you’re not just choosing a place to live you’re choosing a future shaped around your independence.

At BB Disability and Mental Health Services, we’re here to walk this journey with you:

  • Finding the right home and living supports
  • Matching you with the right support workers
  • Helping you build skills and confidence
  • Ensuring your NDIS plan truly supports your goals

Because independence isn’t a destination it’s a journey. And you deserve to live it your way.