Supported Independent Living (SIL) is undergoing important changes in 2026, including new provider registration and claiming requirements. From 1 July 2026, new claiming arrangements apply to SIL supports, while SIL providers must be registered with the NDIS or have applied for registration by 1 October 2026. These changes are designed to strengthen the way SIL supports are delivered, claimed and monitored under the NDIS. For participants and families in South Hedland, Port Hedland and across the Pilbara, understanding the new requirements can help when choosing a SIL provider and reviewing existing support arrangements. In this guide, we explain the key NDIS Supported Independent Living changes in 2026, what they mean for participants and what to consider when working with a SIL provider.
What Are the NDIS Supported Independent Living Changes in 2026?
Several important SIL changes came into effect from 1 July 2026, mainly affecting how SIL supports are claimed and the registration requirements for providers.
- New SIL claiming requirements
- New support item code 0138 for SIL supports delivered from 1 July 2026
- Previous code 0115 for supports delivered before 1 July 2026
- New registration requirements for SIL providers
- Providers must be registered or have applied for registration by 1 October 2026
These changes apply to SIL providers and participants using SIL supports. For the detailed claiming information, see NDIS SIL claiming and payment changes
What Changed for SIL Providers From 1 July 2026?
From 1 July 2026, SIL providers are required to follow new claiming arrangements and provider requirements.
- New SIL support item code 0138
- Code 0115 for supports delivered before 1 July 2026
- New SIL claiming requirements
- New provider registration requirements
- Registration application deadline of 1 October 2026
The main change for participants is that providers now have additional claiming and compliance requirements to follow.
Do SIL Providers Need to Be Registered With the NDIS?
Yes. From 1 July 2026, SIL providers need to be registered with the NDIS. Existing SIL providers that were not already registered had to apply for registration by 1 October 2026 to continue providing SIL supports. If a provider does not register, participants may need to consider another registered provider. For more information, see NDIS SIL provider registration requirements.
What Do the New SIL Rules Mean for Participants?
The 2026 changes do not mean SIL is being removed. Participants can continue to receive SIL where they are eligible and have appropriate funding.
- Check whether your current provider meets the new requirements
- Discuss any changes with your provider and support team
- Review your current support arrangements
- Consider another registered provider if your current provider cannot continue delivering SIL
The focus of these changes is on provider registration, claiming and delivery requirements, rather than automatically reducing a participant’s SIL funding.
What Does SIL Funding Cover Under the NDIS?
SIL funding is intended to cover support worker assistance, helping participants manage daily life and develop greater independence. It is not generally funding for the participant’s ordinary housing costs.
- Assistance with daily living
- Personal care where required
- Household tasks
- Developing independence and life skills
- Support with routines
- Community access where relevant
- Assistance provided by support workers
SIL Does Not Generally Pay For
- Rent
- Mortgage payments
- Groceries
- Ordinary household living costs
The NDIS explains that SIL funding covers support and supervision rather than accommodation costs.
For more information, see what SIL funding covers
Who Is Supported Independent Living Designed For?
Supported Independent Living is generally designed for people with higher support needs who require significant assistance with daily life.
It may be suitable for participants who:
- Need help throughout the day
- Require significant daily living support
- May need support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
SIL is about a participant’s support needs, rather than the type of home or accommodation they live in.
How Are SIL and Accommodation Different?
SIL and accommodation are separate parts of a participant’s living arrangements.
SIL
SIL pays for the support workers and assistance a participant needs to live as independently as possible.
Accommodation
Accommodation refers to the actual home or living arrangement. A participant may live in:
- Shared accommodation
- Individual accommodation
- Specialist accommodation where eligible
- Another appropriate living arrangement
What Should Participants Check When Choosing a SIL Provider?
Before choosing a SIL provider, participants should consider:
- Provider registration
- Understanding of individual support needs
- How support will be delivered
- Who will provide the support
- Support for independence
- Participant preferences
- Communication with families and support teams
- Suitability of the living arrangement
Registration is important, but it does not automatically mean a provider is the right fit for every participant.
What Do the 2026 SIL Changes Mean for Participants in South Hedland and the Pilbara?
The 2026 SIL changes are national NDIS requirements, so participants in South Hedland, Port Hedland and across the Pilbara are subject to the same rules.
Participants can:
- Check their provider’s registration status
- Understand how the provider will meet the new requirements
- Discuss concerns early
- Consider alternative providers if necessary
- Ensure support arrangements continue to reflect their needs and goals
How STARR Care Provides Supported Independent Living in South Hedland
STARR Care provides Supported Independent Living in South Hedland and across the Pilbara, supporting eligible NDIS participants to build greater independence while receiving the assistance they need.
Support can include:
- Daily living support
- Personal care
- Household tasks
- Meal preparation
- Routines
- Developing life skills
- Community participation
- Individualised support
Learn more about Supported Independent Living in South Hedland
Looking for Supported Independent Living in South Hedland?
STARR Care provides person-centred Supported Independent Living support in South Hedland and across the Pilbara. Our team works with eligible NDIS participants to support daily living, independence, routines, life skills and community participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the NDIS Supported Independent Living changes in 2026?
The 2026 SIL changes include new claiming requirements from 1 July 2026 and new registration requirements for SIL providers. Providers must use the applicable SIL claiming arrangements, including the new support item code for services delivered from 1 July 2026, and must be registered or have applied for registration by 1 October 2026.
2. Do SIL providers need to be registered with the NDIS?
Yes. From 1 July 2026, SIL providers need to be registered with the NDIS. Providers that were not already registered were required to apply for registration by 1 October 2026 to continue providing SIL supports.
3. What is the new SIL claiming code for 2026?
The new SIL support item code is 0138 for SIL supports delivered from 1 July 2026. The previous code, 0115, applies to supports delivered before 1 July 2026.
4. Does SIL funding pay for rent and accommodation?
No. SIL funding is intended to pay for the support and supervision a participant needs to live as independently as possible. It does not generally cover rent, mortgage payments, groceries or ordinary accommodation costs.
5. Who is Supported Independent Living suitable for?
SIL is generally designed for NDIS participants with higher support needs who require significant assistance with daily living. It may suit people who need support throughout the day and potentially 24-hour support, depending on their individual circumstances and NDIS plan.
Finding the Right SIL Support
If you are looking for Supported Independent Living in South Hedland, STARR Care can help you explore support options designed around your individual needs and goals.
Call us: (+61) 487-468-829
Email us at: info@starrcare.com.au
Visit us: Unit 3, Brand Street, South Hedland WA 6722
Follow STARR Care: Registered NDIS Provider on Facebook and Instagram