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:
- Kings Central, Werrington: 4 vacancies across its 4 purpose-built SDA homes, suited to High Physical Support or Fully Accessible needs
- Tandara, Kingswood: vacancy numbers aren't listed publicly. Contact Thorndale directly to check current availability
- Carinya, Kingswood: vacancy numbers aren't listed publicly. Contact Thorndale 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.
How Much Support Will You Get?
Support at Thorndale's SIL homes ranges from drop-in visits to full 24-hour onsite care, depending on each participant's NDIS plan and personal needs. This flexibility means participants aren't locked into a support level that doesn't suit them. As needs change, the level of support can be adjusted.
How NDIS Funding Covers SIL
SIL is funded through your NDIS plan, typically under Core Supports for Daily Tasks/Shared Living. Thorndale's NDIS Services team can help you understand whether SIL is included in your current plan, or how to request it at your next plan review.
What to Expect When Moving In
Moving into SIL housing usually starts with a conversation about your goals, needs, and current NDIS plan, followed by a home visit or tour, and a transition plan tailored to you. Thorndale's team works alongside participants and families throughout the process to make the move as smooth as possible.
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.
Getting Started with Thorndale
If you're an NDIS participant or family member exploring SIL housing options in Kingswood, St Marys, Cambridge Park, or Jamisontown, the Thorndale team is ready to help.
Ready to explore SIL housing options in Western Sydney?
View Thorndale's SIL housing or call (02) 9912 7800 to speak with the NDIS Services team.
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.
