Independent Living With the NDIS: What Does It Really Mean?

For many people living with disability, the idea of independence is deeply personal. It doesn’t always mean living alone or doing everything without help — sometimes, it simply means having choice, control, and the right support to do more of the things that matter to you.

The NDIS can be a powerful tool in helping participants move toward independent living — but knowing where to start or what’s even possible can feel overwhelming.

Let’s break it down in everyday language.

💡 What Does “Independent Living” Actually Mean?

Independent living means different things for different people.

For some, it might look like:

• Moving into a share house with friends and having drop-in support.

• Learning to cook a few meals a week at home.

• Using a visual schedule to get through your morning routine.

• Having a support worker help you build confidence in public transport.

• Feeling safe and in control in your own space.

For others, it might mean:

• Receiving 24/7 support in a shared home.

• Staying in the family home but gradually taking on more life tasks.

• Living with a host family or mentor in a supported arrangement.

👉 It’s not about doing everything alone. It’s about creating a life where you have a say — and the right support — to live the way you want.

🔎 What NDIS Supports Might Help You Live More Independently?

The NDIS funds different types of supports depending on your goals, needs, and circumstances. Here are some of the most common supports that can help people work toward independent living:

🧹 1. Assistance With Daily Living

This includes hands-on help with everyday tasks such as:

• Getting ready for the day

• Preparing meals

• Cleaning and laundry

• Taking medication

• Attending appointments

You might receive this support in your own home, in a shared home, or even when staying with family. It can be short-term or long-term, depending on your plan.

🏘️ 2. Supported Independent Living (SIL)

SIL is an option for people who need a higher level of support, including overnight supervision or 24/7 assistance.

It’s usually provided in a shared home with other participants. The supports are rostered and staffed, so you’re never without help when needed.

You’ll usually need functional assessments and reports to show that SIL is the best fit for your needs.

🔑 3. Individualised Living Options (ILO)

ILO is a flexible and personalised approach to independent living. It might include:

• Living with a host family or mentor

• Sharing with a friend or sibling

• Living alone with drop-in supports

ILO is ideal for people who want to design their own living arrangement in a way that works for them — but it requires a planning and exploration stage before it can be funded.

🧠 4. Capacity Building Supports

You don’t have to move out straight away to work on independence.

Capacity Building supports help you develop the skills you’ll need now or in future, like:

• Cooking and meal prep

• Budgeting and shopping

• Using public transport

• Managing routines and personal care

• Practising social skills and problem-solving

You might access these through life skills programs, group activities, or 1:1 support with a worker or therapist.

🤝 5. Support Coordination or Psychosocial Recovery Coaching

If you’re not sure where to start — or you have lots of different services — a support coordinator can help you:

• Understand your plan

• Connect with the right providers

• Explore housing options

• Set up services that support your goals

Psychosocial recovery coaches can also help if you’re living with a mental health condition.

🗣️ Setting “Independent Living” Goals in Your Plan

To receive the right funding, it’s important that your NDIS goals reflect what you’re trying to work toward.

Here are some examples of how that might sound:

• “I want to build my skills so I can live more independently.”

• “I want to explore moving out in the future.”

• “I want to feel confident using public transport and shopping on my own.”

• “I want to live with others but have my own space and routines.”

✅ Clear, practical goals give your planner more context and make it easier to connect you with the right supports.

🏠 What If I’m Not Ready to Move Out?

You don’t have to be!

Living independently isn’t just about housing — it’s about having a say in your day-to-day life and learning skills that build your confidence.

You might start by:

• Practising tasks like cooking or doing laundry with a support worker.

• Being more involved in decisions about your day.

• Creating routines that give you a sense of ownership and rhythm.

• Building emotional regulation tools so you feel more in control.

Your journey is valid — whether you’re just beginning or you’re already living independently with support.

🔚 Final Thoughts

Independent living isn’t one-size-fits-all. With the right NDIS supports in place, it becomes less about ticking boxes — and more about building a life that works for you.

Whether that means a share house with drop-in support, help learning to cook at home, or just having the right people on your team — your goals are valid, and your path is yours to shape.

Need Help Navigating Your NDIS Plan?

We’re here to help.

📍 Based on the Gold Coast

📝 Contact us here — we can talk through your goals and help connect you with services that support your next steps.

OR Check out our Provider Directory to find a local Support Coordinator - Provider Directory