SILosophy - Episode 33: Inside look into SIL reform

Navigating NDIS Reform, I-CAN Assessments, and SIL Commissioning with Shane Stewart

As the NDIS undergoes significant legislative reform, Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers face a rapidly evolving landscape. From the upcoming rollout of standardized I-CAN assessments to the potential introduction of block-funding commissioning models, frontline operators must adapt their business strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.

In this episode of SILosophy, host Tania Gomez is joined by Shane Stewart, SIL Partner at Resolv. Drawing from nearly a decade of experience at the NDIA—including five years directly managing Home and Living policy during major royal commission and review responses—Shane offers unique, behind-the-scenes insights into how government decisions shape operational realities.

Shane and Tania break down the shift toward participant-led I-CAN assessments, why relying on plan increases is a dangerous business strategy, the reality of ratios in SIL, and what to expect as the market contracts over the next decade.

Key Content Covered In This Episode:

• Demystifying the I-CAN Assessment: Understanding the standardized assessment model being developed with Melbourne University to replace long, disjointed medical reports.

• The Death of the "Plan Increase" Strategy: Why providers must stop onboarding participants at a loss in the hope of securing higher funding allocations later.

• SIL Commissioning Insights: What the government consultation on block funding means for market representation, choice and control, and smaller providers.

• The Reality of SIL Ratios: Why legislative ratios do not technically exist in NDIS pricing, and how providers must align rosters of care to actual plan budgets.

• The 10-Year Scheme Outlook: Preparing for a smaller, more targeted NDIS, including participant transition targets and the shrinking of intermediary markets.

• Compliance, Integrity, and Viability: Why robust documentation, address matching, and participant-led governance are critical for surviving upcoming audits.

Episode Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Welcome to SILosophy and Introducing Shane Stewart (Resolv)

• 01:15 – Shane's NDIA Background and Resolv's Role in Home and Living

• 02:40 – What Is the I-CAN Assessment and When Will It Roll Out?

• 05:15 – Economic Reform vs. Social Policy: Why NDIS Decision-Making Is Shifting

• 07:00 – Why Relying on Plan Increases Is a Dangerous Business Model

• 10:30 – Exploring SIL Commissioning: Pilots, Market Size, and Geographical Constraints

• 14:40 – Profit Margins in SIL and Financial Literacy for Providers

• 16:20 – The Truth About Ratios and the Roster of Care Tool

• 19:15 – Compliance Checks: How the NDIA Monitors Claims and Addresses

• 21:30 – Future Outlook: What the NDIS Will Look Like in 3 to 5 Years

• 24:00 – Mandatory Registration and Risk-Based Frameworks

• 26:15 – Essential Compliance and Integrity Advice for SIL Operators

• 28:30 – Wrap Up and How to Connect with Shane Stewart

Resources and Links Mentioned:

• Connect with Shane Stewart: Email: shane@resolve.com.au

• Learn More About Resolv: resolv.com.au