Congratulations! Receiving Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding in your NDIS plan is a life-changing moment. It’s the “green light” to begin your journey toward true independence.
But we know that the moment the excitement fades, the questions start: How do I find a house? What is a Roster of Care? How do I know if the staff are any good?
At This Way Support, we’ve helped dozens of Melburnians transition into their new homes. Here is exactly what you should do next to ensure your move is smooth, safe, and successful.
Step 1: Review Your “Roster of Care” (RoC)
Before you look at a single house, you need to understand your Roster of Care. This is the document that outlines exactly how many hours of support the NDIS has funded for you.
- Is it 1:1 support?
- Is it shared support (1:2 or 1:3)?
- Do you have funding for “Active Night” support (where staff are awake) or “Sleepover” support?
Why it matters: You need to find a home that matches your funding. A premium provider like This Way Support can help you review your RoC to make sure it actually covers your needs.
Step 2: Define Your “Non-Negotiables”
Don’t just look for a “vacancy.” Look for a lifestyle. Sit down with your family or Support Coordinator and list your must-haves:
- Location: Do you need to be near a specific train line in Melbourne?
- Accessibility: Do you need widened doorways or specific bathroom modifications?
- Environment: Do you prefer a quiet, sensory-friendly street or a house close to the action?
Step 3: The “Meet and Greet” (The Most Important Step)
Once you find a potential home, the most important thing isn’t the building—it’s the people.
- Meet the Housemates: Compatibility is the #1 predictor of SIL success. Do you have similar interests?
- Meet the Team: Ask the staff about their experience. At This Way Support, we encourage these meetings early on because we want you to feel a “click” with the people who will be in your home 24/7.
Step 4: The Transition Plan
A good SIL move isn’t done in a day. It’s a process.
- Start with a few afternoon visits.
- Progress to an overnight stay (using STA funding if available).
- Gradually move your belongings in.
Common Hurdles: What People Forget to Ask
“What happens if my funding doesn’t cover the house I want?” “We were worried our RoC wasn’t high enough for a premium home,” says Greg. “But the team at This Way Support sat down with our Support Coordinator and helped us gather the evidence to show why 24/7 active support was necessary. They didn’t just say ‘no’; they helped us advocate for the right level of care.”
“Can I bring my own support workers?” “I had a worker I’d known for years and didn’t want to lose,” explains Sam. “This Way Support was amazing—they worked with me to integrate my existing supports into the new house routine while their 24/7 team handled the overnight and household tasks. It was the best of both worlds.”
Ready to Take the First Step?
The 90 days after receiving funding are the most important. Don’t rush into a placement just because there’s an open bed. Choose a partner who understands the Melbourne NDIS landscape and prioritizes your long-term happiness.
Let’s Get Moving
At This Way Support, we have a dedicated intake team ready to help you navigate these four steps. Whether you’re ready to tour one of our Melbourne SIL properties or you just need help understanding your Roster of Care, we’re here.
Visit our contact page to see our current vacancies and start your transition today.
