When it comes to disability support, everyone deserves more than just care—they deserve connection, comfort, and a space where they can be themselves. That’s the heart of shared living in SIL accommodation. For many NDIS participants, this style of living offers the perfect balance between independence and companionship, wrapped in the security of consistent support.
At Reaching Abilities, we know how powerful it is when people feel seen, safe, and supported. Shared SIL homes provide not just a roof over your head, but a community where participants can thrive. Whether you’re a participant, family member, or support coordinator, understanding the benefits of this model could be the first step toward a better quality of life.
What Is Shared SIL Accommodation?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support option that provides help with everyday tasks while encouraging participants to live as independently as possible. It’s designed for people with higher support needs who want to live in a home environment with regular assistance.
In a shared SIL accommodation, multiple NDIS participants live together in one home, supported by trained staff who are there to help with:
- Personal care and hygiene
- Meal preparation
- Medication reminders and health management
- Emotional wellbeing and daily encouragement
- Household tasks like cleaning and laundry
Unlike other models, shared SIL homes promote a more connected, communal way of living. Each person has their own space, but also shares common areas and routines. It’s about maintaining dignity and independence, while building relationships with others who understand your journey.
This environment is particularly beneficial for those who thrive with predictable routines, peer support, and social interaction. Whether it’s sharing a meal, watching a movie together, or simply having someone to chat with, the shared living model provides structure, support, and genuine companionship.
🏡 Think of it as your own home—just with extra support and a few friendly housemates by your side.
Key Benefits of Shared Living for NDIS Participants
Moving into shared SIL accommodation can be life-changing for many participants. Beyond the practical benefits, it creates space for personal growth, companionship, and a structured lifestyle—all within a safe, familiar setting.
Companionship and Social Inclusion
Loneliness is a big challenge for many people with disability. Shared living means you’re never completely alone. From having a chat over breakfast to watching TV with a housemate in the evening, everyday social interaction becomes part of life. It’s a natural way to reduce isolation and boost mental health.
🕗 Routine and Structure
Consistency builds confidence. With shared SIL, participants benefit from daily routines that support meals, medication, and personal care. Staff help maintain these structures, ensuring participants feel stable and in control of their day-to-day life.
💪 Increased Confidence Through Shared Experience
Seeing peers manage tasks or try something new can be incredibly empowering. Shared living encourages participants to learn from one another, build independence gradually, and celebrate progress—big or small—together.
Emotional Support in Real Time
Sometimes it helps just knowing someone else “gets it.” Whether it’s a shared laugh or some quiet reassurance, peer support in a shared SIL home creates emotional resilience. Participants often feel more open to expressing how they feel, which helps with overall wellbeing.
🌱 Personal Development Through Group Participation
From taking turns to cook meals to deciding what movie to watch, shared living encourages participants to get involved, speak up, and take part in household decisions. These small interactions add up to big personal wins.
A More Holistic Support Environment
Shared SIL accommodation doesn’t just meet physical needs—it supports emotional and social wellbeing too. The care participants receive goes beyond basic tasks. It becomes integrated, holistic support.
🌟 Familiarity Builds Trust
Living with the same housemates and seeing the same support staff creates a strong sense of comfort and routine. Trust grows over time—this familiarity helps participants feel more secure and less anxious, particularly for those with complex care needs.
Consistent, Compassionate Care
Our experienced staff build real relationships with each participant. By understanding their routines, preferences, and triggers, we can provide care that’s not only responsive but also respectful and personalised.
Especially Effective for Complex Needs
For participants with dementia, autism, or behavioural support plans, shared living offers a calm, structured environment where challenges are met with patience and skill. Consistent staff and predictable routines reduce distress and improve outcomes over time.
💬 “It’s more than support—it’s familiarity, friendship, and feeling like you belong.” – Care team member, Reaching Abilities
How Shared SIL Builds a Sense of Community
One of the biggest perks of shared living NDIS accommodation is the natural sense of community it fosters. While staff provide support, the real magic happens between the participants. Friendships develop, routines become shared experiences, and everyone contributes to the atmosphere of the home. Over time, a true sense of belonging grows—participants feel valued, involved, and part of something bigger than themselves. This social connection often leads to improved confidence, emotional wellbeing, and a greater sense of purpose in everyday life.
🍽️ Shared Meals and Daily Interaction
Whether it’s helping to prepare dinner, setting the table, or enjoying dessert together—meals are a chance to connect, chat, and unwind as a group.
🎉 Celebrating Milestones Together
Birthdays, public holidays, and special achievements don’t go unnoticed. We encourage celebration and joy. These shared experiences create memories and reinforce the feeling of belonging.
🛍️ Group Outings and Activities
From trips to the shops to attending local events, participants are encouraged to get involved together. Shared outings promote confidence and give everyone something to look forward to.
🏡 Collaborative Living
Where appropriate, participants take part in household decisions, from choosing a weekly activity to decorating for the holidays. This adds meaning and a sense of ownership to their living environment.
It’s these everyday moments—laughing during a group game, watching a movie together, or pitching in with dinner—that help transform a house into a home.
Why Families and Coordinators Choose Us for Shared SIL
At Reaching Abilities, we understand that placing someone in SIL accommodation is a big decision. That’s why we focus on care, communication, and continuity every step of the way.
👩⚕️ Experienced, Compassionate Staff
Our team includes professionals trained in dementia care, complex needs support, and behaviour management. Their expertise ensures safe, respectful care tailored to each participant.
🧍♂️ Person-Centred Approach
We don’t treat people like numbers. We take the time to get to know each participant—their preferences, routines, and what makes them feel at home. Everyone is treated with kindness and dignity, just like family.
📞 Transparent Communication
Families and support coordinators are kept in the loop through regular updates and check-ins. We know how important it is for families to feel reassured and informed.
🔁 Smooth Transition Process
We support families and participants from intake to move-in, offering gradual visits, familiarisation, and a flexible onboarding approach to make the change feel as comfortable as possible.
📈 Proven Outcomes
We’ve supported dozens of NDIS participants in Western Australia to successfully settle into shared living—and continue to thrive long-term.
🧡 “They made it feel like home from day one. The support, the communication, and the warmth—it was everything we hoped for.” – Parent of a Reaching Abilities resident
Conclusion
Shared SIL accommodation isn’t just about support—it’s about living well, together. For NDIS participants, shared living offers an empowering blend of independence and community that nurtures emotional wellbeing, confidence, and daily stability.
At Reaching Abilities, we’re proud to provide homes where participants aren’t just cared for—they’re understood, included, and celebrated.
Looking for high-quality shared SIL accommodation in WA? Contact us today to explore our supportive homes and speak with our experienced care team. We’d love to help you find a place where your loved one can truly belong.
Ozer Tanlasi – Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities
Ozer Tanlasi is the Founder and Director of Reaching Abilities, an organisation dedicated to providing compassionate and empowering support to individuals with disabilities. With a background in allied health and a deep commitment to inclusive care, Ozer established Reaching Abilities to create a welcoming space where individuals can thrive, gain independence, and achieve their personal goals. Her approach is centred around understanding each individual’s unique needs and strengths, ensuring they receive tailored services that make a positive impact on their lives. Under Ozer’s leadership, Reaching Abilities has become known for its compassionate, client-focused approach, supporting individuals and families in building meaningful connections and reaching new potentials.
