Supported Independent Living (SIL) Assessments by Occupational Therapists

If you’re exploring Supported Independent Living (SIL) under the NDIS, chances are you’ve come across the term "SIL assessment." These assessments play a vital role in helping determine the level of support a person needs to live more independently — often in a shared living environment.

In most cases, a qualified occupational therapist (OT) is responsible for completing this assessment. At CARED, we understand how complex and overwhelming this process can feel, especially when trying to understand what’s involved, why it matters, and how to prepare. This guide will help clarify what SIL assessments are, how they work, and how they support your NDIS goals.

What Is a SIL Assessment?

A SIL assessment is a detailed functional assessment completed by an occupational therapist. It’s used to determine whether a person is eligible for Supported Independent Living under their NDIS plan and what level of daily support they require.

The assessment looks at a person’s ability to carry out everyday tasks such as:

• Cooking and preparing meals
• Showering, dressing, and hygiene
• Taking medication
• Managing money and appointments
• Cleaning and household chores
• Communicating needs
• Behavioural and emotional regulation

The OT gathers this information through observation, interviews with the participant and carers, and clinical judgement. Their findings are then compiled into a report that is submitted to the NDIS as evidence to support a SIL funding request.

Why Is a SIL Assessment Important?

SIL funding is not automatically included in an NDIS plan. You must provide strong supporting evidence showing that this level of support is "reasonable and necessary" for your situation.

The OT's report:

• Demonstrates your current support needs
• Explains your functional capacity in daily living activities
• Outlines risks if appropriate supports aren’t in place
• Justifies the need for 24/7 or ongoing support in a shared living setting

Without a thorough SIL assessment, it’s difficult for the NDIA to approve this type of funding.

What Does the OT Look For?

When conducting a SIL assessment, the occupational therapist will consider:

• Your current living situation
• The level and type of support you already receive
• The tasks you can do independently
• Where you need help or prompting
• Any behavioural or medical complexities
• Your NDIS goals and aspirations
• The least restrictive, most appropriate support model

They may also complete standardised assessments such as the FIM (Functional Independence Measure) or MOHOST (Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool), depending on your needs.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once complete, the OT will develop a formal SIL Assessment Report. This includes:

• A summary of your daily functional capacity
• A clear outline of your support needs across a 24-hour period
• Clinical justification for SIL funding
• Recommendations on the appropriate support ratio (e.g. 1:3, 1:2, 1:1)
• Information on any assistive technology or home modifications needed

This report is submitted as part of your evidence to the NDIS. It may be used alongside other supporting documents such as behaviour support plans, GP letters, or housing goal statements.

How to Prepare for a SIL Assessment

Here are some ways you and your support network can prepare:

• Talk openly with the OT about what your day looks like — even the difficult parts.
• Be honest about what you can and can’t do without support.
• Gather documentation like medical letters or previous therapy reports.
• Include informal supports like family members or carers in the assessment session.
• Think about your goals — What does independence look like to you?

Getting Support Through the Process

At CARED, we work alongside participants, support coordinators, and families to make the SIL journey clearer and more manageable. If you’re unsure where to start or need help connecting with an experienced OT for a SIL assessment, we’re here to guide you — with compassion and care.

Need help navigating SIL assessments or NDIS housing options?
Reach out to the CARED team for guidance and support, every step of the way.

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