If you or someone you support is searching for SIL housing in Sydney, timing matters. Thorndale Foundation currently has vacancies at three homes across Western Sydney.
These homes are Tandara, Illoura, and Kings Central. Each offers a different setting, but shares the same foundation of quality support.
All are part of Supported Independent Living, delivered by an experienced, NDIS registered provider. Thorndale has nearly 60 years in the disability sector.
Here's what you need to know about these openings, and about SIL more broadly, to help you decide.
Read Also: NDIS SIL Housing in Western Sydney: What to Expect and How to Apply
What Is Supported Independent Living? Supported Living Explained
Supported Independent Living, or SIL, is NDIS funded support. It helps people with disability live as independently as possible in a shared home.
Rather than living alone or with family, participants share a home with a small number of housemates. Support workers assist with daily tasks and routines.
This includes cooking, personal care, household management, and building everyday living skills over time, at each participant's own pace.
For a full breakdown of how SIL works, see our guide, What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
Current SIL Housing Vacancies in Sydney
Three Thorndale homes currently have places available across Western Sydney, each in a different suburb and setting.
Tandara, Kingswood
A supportive, community based home in Kingswood. Offers round the clock assistance tailored to each resident's goals and daily needs.
Illoura, Kingswood
Also located in Kingswood, close to Tandara. Provides a warm, structured environment focused on independence and housemate connection.
Kings Central, Werrington
Close to Thorndale's Werrington base. Offers a settled home environment with easy access to wider programs and community.
Each home is staffed by trained support workers and sits within Thorndale's broader SIL housing network.
What Is the Difference Between SDA and SIL?
SDA and SIL are often confused, but they fund different things entirely. Understanding the difference helps when planning support.
SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)
- Funds the physical building itself
- Covers homes designed or modified for accessibility
- Applies to participants with significant support or access needs
SIL (Supported Independent Living)
- Funds the support workers and assistance delivered
- Applies inside a home, regardless of its SDA status
- Covers daily living help, not the property itself
In short: SDA is about the house, while SIL is about the help provided inside it.
Can You Have SIL Without SDA?
Yes. Many SIL homes, including the three highlighted above, are standard housing rather than SDA enrolled properties.
A participant can receive SIL support without their home being classified as SDA at all.
SDA only becomes relevant if a participant's NDIS plan identifies a need for specialist, modified housing.
Who Qualifies for Supported Independent Living?
Eligibility for SIL depends on what's included in a participant's NDIS plan. There's no separate application process involved.
Generally, a person may qualify under the following circumstances, assessed individually by an NDIS planner or Support Coordinator.
- Needs regular, ongoing support with daily living tasks
- Requires more help than family or informal carers can reasonably provide
- Has SIL funding included in their plan based on individual goals
Meeting general housing disability requirements, like needing supervision or help managing a household, typically forms part of this assessment.
For full eligibility criteria, see the NDIS website.
How to Apply for SIL Housing in Sydney
If SIL might be right for you or someone you support, start with your current NDIS plan and next steps.
- Review your NDIS plan for existing SIL funding
- Raise SIL with your Support Coordinator or planner
- Contact Thorndale Foundation to discuss current vacancies and arrange a visit
With only three vacancies currently open, now is a good time to start the conversation.
Ready to Find the Right SIL Home?
Finding the right supported living home is an important decision. Thorndale’s experienced team can help you explore available vacancies, understand your options, and find the right support for your needs.
Contact Thorndale today to discuss current SIL vacancies and arrange a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the meaning of supported independent living?
Supported independent living is NDIS funded assistance helping a person with disability live in a shared home. Trained workers provide support, rather than full residential care.
2. How many people typically live in a SIL home?
SIL homes are usually shared with a small number of housemates. This allows both companionship and individualised support from staff.
3. Is SIL only available to people with high support needs?
No. SIL supports a range of needs, from occasional assistance to more intensive, round the clock support, depending on the participant's plan.
4. Can I visit a SIL home before deciding?
Yes. Prospective residents and their families are welcome to arrange a visit, see the home, and meet staff beforehand.
5. What happens once a SIL vacancy is filled?
Once filled, a vacancy is removed from availability. Reaching out early gives you the best chance of securing a place.