Factsheet - Canberra SIL

Supported Independent Living (SIL) in Canberra: NDIS & Accommodation Tips


Not Enough SIL in Gungahlin? Suburbs Close By Instead

If you’re struggling to find SIL in Gungahlin, don’t worry. There are nearby suburbs that may have what you need. These areas are within 5 km of Gungahlin and could offer great options for Supported Independent Living.

  • Crace
  • Franklin
  • Palmerston
  • Harrison
  • Ngunnawal

These suburbs may have SIL houses that work for you, but are just a little further out.  They may be just what you’re looking for if Gungahlin itself doesn’t have what you want or need.

What Makes SIL Work Well in Gungahlin?

A good SIL setup is one that fits your lifestyle. The right place should support your daily needs, help you live comfortably, and make you feel at home. 

One of the important things is finding a space that feels welcoming, whether you need personal care or help getting around. All support workers should be caring and reliable, helping with daily tasks or getting to appointments.


What Can Go Wrong?  Well, a lot really.

Not all SIL options are perfect. Sometimes, a place doesn’t meet your expectations, or the support isn’t enough. Maybe the staff doesn’t listen to your needs, or they can’t give you all the help you need. 

Feeling unsupported can be frustrating. That’s why it’s important to choose carefully and ask the right questions.

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Factors That Make SIL Work Well in Gungahlin

For SIL to work well, your home needs to be close to things that make life easier.

Keep these things in mind:


Public Transport

Having access to reliable public transport is a big deal. You’ll want to live in an area where buses or trains are nearby, making it easy to get around. 

This helps you stay connected to the community and get to appointments without any hassle.


Close to Shops

Being near shops is important. Whether you need groceries or just want to do some shopping, it’s important that your SIL is close to local stores. 

If it’s not within walking distance, having reliable transport to get there is important. This helps make daily life smoother and more independent.


Access to Healthcare

Living near healthcare services is important. Whether it’s regular check-ups or emergency care, having a doctor or clinic close by makes a big difference. 

It’s helpful to know that medical support is available when you need it, without having to travel far.


Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Being close to parks and outdoor spaces adds more enjoyment to your day. Gungahlin has beautiful green areas where you can go for walks or relax. 

Having a peaceful place nearby to spend time outside with your support worker can improve your overall well-being.



Community Centers

Community centers offer activities and social events that help you stay connected. Many SIL residents enjoy going to these centers for classes, social groups, or just meeting new people. 

A good SIL location should have easy access to these local hubs.

Avoid Like The Plague! - Dodge These For SIL in Gungahlin

Some things can make SIL harder than it needs to be. Here are a few things to avoid:


Isolated Location

Living too far from important places like shops, parks, or public transport can make it hard to get out and about. This isolation might make you feel stuck or dependent on others.


Poor Communication

Communication with staff is vital. If the staff isn’t good at keeping you updated, or if you don’t feel comfortable talking to them, it can cause issues down the road. 

Make sure there’s a good system in place for you to raise any concerns.


Limited Social Opportunities

Living in an area without social activities or nearby community events can make you feel isolated. It’s important to avoid places where there’s little chance to meet new people or join social groups. 

A lack of social opportunities might affect your mental well-being over time.


Inflexible Support Plans

Some SIL providers may not offer flexible support plans. If the provider doesn’t adapt to your changing needs, you could end up with less support than required. 

It’s important to avoid providers who can’t adjust care as your situation evolves.



Poorly Maintained Living Spaces

A poorly maintained home can make daily life uncomfortable. Living in a space that’s run down or not properly cared for can cause stress. 

It’s important to choose a place where repairs and maintenance are handled quickly and efficiently.

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Questions to Ask a Potential SIL Provider

Asking the right questions before choosing an SIL provider can save you a lot of trouble. Here are some important things to ask:

  • What kind of support will I receive?
  • How often will I have access to my support worker?
  • How will staff respond if my needs change over time?
  • What’s the process if I have concerns or need extra help?

These questions help you find out if the provider is a good fit for your needs.


Need Help Finding SIL in Gungahlin? Talk to Aria!

If you’re looking for help with SIL options in Gungahlin, Aria knows what’s available in the area. 

She’s connected to many service providers and can help you explore your options. J

ust reach out for a chat, and she’ll be happy to help you find the best SIL option.


Things You May Not Know About Gungahlin and Nearby Suburbs

Gungahlin is a growing area in Canberra with so much happening. It’s home to many parks, shops, and services. But did you know that Gungahlin also has some hidden gems? 

For example, Crace is known for its beautiful parklands and walking tracks. Palmerston is a quiet area with easy access to local shops, while Franklin has a range of modern facilities. 

Harrison offers great access to public transport, and Ngunnawal is perfect for those who enjoy quieter, residential areas.

These suburbs, all close to Gungahlin, provide a wide variety of options for Supported Independent Living.

Whether you want peace and quiet or easy access to public transport, one of these suburbs could be a great fit.

Fun Things to Do with Your NDIS Support Worker in Gungahlin

Supported Independent Living doesn’t mean staying at home. Gungahlin has plenty of activities to enjoy with your support worker. Here are some fun things you can do:


Visit the Shops

The Gungahlin Marketplace is a great spot for shopping and grabbing a bite to eat. There are a variety of stores to browse, plus plenty of options for lunch. 

A popular choice is sushi, which you can enjoy while taking a break from shopping.


Try the Local Golf Course - Even Just The Putting Green

The Gungahlin Lakes Golf Course is a fantastic spot for a relaxing day out. If you’re new to golf, there’s a practice putting green that’s free to use. 

It’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air and have fun with your support worker.


Explore Yerrabi Pond District Park

Yerrabi Pond District Park is a great spot for outdoor fun. You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the pond, have a picnic, or try out the fitness equipment. 

The park also has playgrounds, so it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature with your support worker.



Visit the Gungahlin Library

For a quieter day, you can visit the Gungahlin Library. It’s a great place to explore books, join a reading group, or simply spend some time in a calm environment. 

The library often hosts community events, which can be a great way to meet new people.

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Need Help? Talk to Aria!


If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, don’t worry. Aria can help guide you through your options. 

Whether it’s with us or another organisation, she has the connections to help you find the right place.

Get in Touch
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