For many people living with a disability, independence isn’t just about where you live—it’s about having choice, control, and the confidence to live life your way. In Melbourne, the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is helping more individuals take meaningful steps toward independent living, whether that means moving out of home, managing daily routines, or getting involved in the community.

Here’s how the NDIS supports independent living in Melbourne and what you or your loved ones need to know to get started.

What Does Independent Living Mean Under the NDIS?

Independent living doesn’t mean doing everything on your own—it means doing as much as you want to, with the right support in place. Under the NDIS, this can look different for everyone. Some people might want help with cooking and cleaning while they live in their own apartment, while others might want support to live in shared accommodation with housemates or friends.

The NDIS offers flexible supports tailored to your goals, whether that’s developing life skills, moving out of the family home, or getting involved in work or social activities.

How Does NDIS Help Independent Living?

1. Finding the Right Home Setup

One of the first steps to independent living is finding the right place to live. The NDIS can help fund different types of housing supports, including:

• SIL (Supported Independent Living): 24/7 or regular support in a shared home with others
  
  
• ILO (Individualised Living Options): Customised support to help you live in the way that suits you—alone, with friends, or with a host family
  
  
• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): For people with high support needs who require a purpose-built home

In Melbourne, there are a growing number of providers offering flexible and inclusive housing options. It’s important to work with a provider who understands your needs, respects your choices, and helps you feel safe and supported.

2. Daily Living Support

Living independently doesn’t mean doing it all solo. The NDIS provides funding for everyday tasks that support your independence. These supports can include:

• Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
  
  
• Household tasks (cooking, cleaning, laundry)
  
  
• Learning to budget, grocery shop, or take public transport
  
  
• Help with medication or health-related routines.
  
  

With the right support worker or care team, these tasks can become opportunities to build skills and confidence over time.

3. Building Life Skills

A big part of independent living is having the confidence and ability to manage daily life. That’s where Capacity Building supports come in. The NDIS can fund programs and activities that help you learn new skills, such as:

• Time management
  
  
• Cooking and meal planning
  
  
• Using technology
  
  
• Communication and social interaction
  
  

In Melbourne, many community centres, support coordinators, and providers offer workshops or one-on-one support to help people build these essential life skills at their own pace.

4. Transport and Community Access

Want to go to the footy, visit friends, or attend a TAFE course? The NDIS can help make that happen. Transport funding is available for participants who can’t use public transport without support.

Supports also exist for community access—meaning a support worker can accompany you to appointments, events, or even social outings. For Melburnians, that could mean anything from attending a festival to joining a community garden.

5. Choosing the Right Support Network

Living independently doesn’t mean going it alone. Having a good support team around you is just as important as having the right funding. Your team might include:

• A support coordinator to help you understand and manage your NDIS plan
  
  
• Support workers who help with daily activities
  
  
• Therapists (like OTs or speech therapists) who help build your capacity
  
  
• Friends, family, and peer mentors who keep you connected
  
  

Melbourne has a strong network of providers, carers, and disability advocates who can work with you to achieve your goals. It’s important to work with an NDIS Registered Provider, as they meet the government’s quality and safety standards and are approved to deliver supports funded through your plan. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and switch providers if something doesn’t feel right.

6. Planning for the Future

Independent living is often a long-term goal, and the NDIS is designed to evolve with you. As your needs and goals change, so can your funding and support. It’s important to have regular plan reviews, stay in touch with your support coordinator, and keep working toward the life you want.

Whether you're thinking about your first move out of home or just starting to explore what's possible, it’s never too early (or too late) to start planning.

Final Thoughts

Living independently is more than just ticking boxes—it’s about living a life that feels meaningful, comfortable, and yours. Thanks to the NDIS, more Melburnians are doing exactly that with the right support behind them.

If you or a loved one is considering the move to independent living, know that you’re not alone. With the right tools, planning, and care team, independence is not only possible—it’s achievable.