What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)? A Guide for Western Sydney NDIS
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS funded support that helps people with disability live as independently as possible in a shared home, with everyday assistance available whenever it's needed. For many NDIS participants across Western Sydney, SIL housing offers the balance of independence and support that makes everyday life more manageable.
Thorndale Foundation has provided residential support to people with disability for almost 60 years, and today operates SIL housing across the Kingswood, St Marys, Cambridge Park, and Jamisontown areas.
What Does SIL Actually Cover?
SIL funding is designed to support participants with everyday tasks in a shared living environment, including:
- Daily living tasks — cooking, cleaning, and household management
- Personal care support — assistance tailored to individual needs
- Life skills development — building independence over time
- Community participation — support to stay connected outside the home
The level of support is matched to the individual. Some participants need occasional drop-in assistance, while others require staff onsite around the clock.
SIL vs. SDA: What's the Difference?
These two terms often get confused. SIL (Supported Independent Living) funds the support and assistance a person receives while living in a shared home. SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) funds the physical building itself, for participants who need specialist housing features.
Many participants access both together: SDA covers the home, and SIL covers the day-to-day support delivered inside it.
Inside Thorndale's SIL Homes
Thorndale currently operates purpose-built SIL homes across several Western Sydney locations, including:
- Kings Central (Werrington) — 4 purpose-built SDA homes across two variants: 2 homes with 3 bedrooms/4 bathrooms, and 2 homes with 2 bedrooms/3 bathrooms, built for High Physical Support
- Tandara (Kingswood) — 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single-level fully accessible layout
- Carinya (Kingswood) — 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 car space, set on a 910 m² block
- Illoura (Kingswood) — 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, minibus bay
- Wisteria (Cambridge Park) — 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, carport
- Euroa (Jamisontown) — 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, carport
- Warranyah (St Marys) — 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, carport
Each home is purpose-built for NDIS participants, with layouts and features designed around accessibility and comfort.
Current Vacancies
Availability changes regularly, so it's always worth checking directly, but here's what's currently listed:
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Kings Central, Werrington: 4 vacancies across its 4 purpose-built SDA homes, suited to High Physical Support or Fully Accessible needs
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Tandara, Kingswood: Contact Us directly to check current availability
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Carinya, Kingswood: Contact Us directly to check current availability
Because availability shifts as participants move in and out, the most reliable way to get an up-to-date answer is to enquire directly through each property page or call the team on (02) 9912 7800 .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can working at Thorndale lead to open employment?
Support ranges from drop-in visits to 24/7 care, tailored to your NDIS plan and adjusted as your needs change.
How is SIL funded through the NDIS?
It is funded under Core Supports (Daily Tasks/Shared Living). Thorndale can assist with requesting SIL funding during your plan review.
What is the move-in process?
The process includes a goal assessment, a home tour, and a personalized transition plan supported by Thorndale’s team.
Who is SIL right for?
It suits NDIS participants seeking greater independence than living at home while still needing regular assistance with daily tasks.
Where are Thorndale’s SIL homes located and how do I start?
Homes are located in Kingswood, St Marys, Cambridge Park, and Jamisontown. Contact Thorndale to discuss options and get started.
Is SIL Right for You or Your Family Member?
SIL housing tends to suit participants who want more independence than living at home allows, but still need regular support with daily tasks. If you're unsure whether SIL is the right fit, Thorndale's team can talk through your NDIS goals and help you decide.
Ready to explore SIL housing options in Western Sydney?
With almost 60 years supporting the Western Sydney disability community, Thorndale Foundation remains a trusted provider of Supported Independent Living. Visit Thorndale Foundation to learn more about all their residential and community support services.
Call us: (02) 9912 7800 (02) 9912 7800
Email: info@thorndale.com.au
Enquire online: https://www.thorndale.com.au/services/sil/housing-and-supported-independent-living