The SILosophy’s Podcast

SILosophy Episode 13 - SIL financials I Avanti Accountants

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by Melissa from Avanti Accountants to break down the complexities of SIL financials. From understanding participant-to-staff ratios to managing overtime costs and tracking cash flow, this episode is packed with practical advice for SIL providers looking to improve financial sustainability.
 
Melissa shares key insights into the Disability Worker Cost Model, the SCHADS Award, and how to effectively monitor expenses to avoid financial pitfalls. If you’re running a SIL business, this is an essential listen to help you manage your margins and stay profitable in the long run.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Melissa from Avanti Accountants
02:10 – Why understanding SIL financials is critical for long-term success
04:15 – The impact of participant-to-staff ratios on SIL funding & expenses
06:30 – How to structure rosters for cost efficiency while meeting participant needs
09:05 – The Disability Worker Cost Model: What it is & why it matters
11:40 – Understanding the SCHADS Award & its impact on your SIL business
13:50 – The financial impact of overtime & public holiday penalty rates
16:20 – Managing last-minute roster changes: Minimizing overtime costs
18:00 – How to track NDIS funding effectively & avoid running out of budget
19:35 – The importance of a cash flow buffer: How much should you keep?
21:00 – Diversifying income streams: Strategies to reduce risk in SIL operations
22:10 – Final thoughts & how to connect with Avanti Accountants
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/
 
#silosophy, #silfinancials, #avantiaccountants, #taniagomez, #taniagomezconsulting, #ndis, #ndisproviders, #ndisfinance, #ndisfunding, #supportindependentliving, #ndisbusiness, #ndiscompliance, #ndisaccounting, #ndisepisode13, #accountingtips

SILosophy Episode 12 - Creating a home, not a house I Support Worker Store

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Sarah Heriot from the Support Worker Store to discuss the importance of creating a true home for SIL participants—rather than just placing them in a house.
 
Sarah shares her insights on what makes a home feel safe and welcoming, the role of support workers in fostering independence, and how to ensure participants have real choice and control over their living environment. From interior design decisions to fostering housemate relationships and overcoming challenges, this episode is packed with practical strategies for SIL providers and support workers alike.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Sarah Herriott from the Support Worker Store
02:00 – The evolution of the Support Worker Store: From resources to training & content
04:10 – What does it mean to create a home, not just a house?
06:25 – The impact of a safe, comfortable environment on participant wellbeing
08:40 – Designing a supportive home environment: The role of personality & choice
12:10 – The importance of housemate compatibility & group decision-making
15:05 – How support workers contribute to making a house feel like home
17:45 – The balance between support & independence: Role modelling & teachable moments
20:10 – The role of relationships & trust in creating a stable home
21:30 – Final thoughts & how to connect with the Support Worker Store
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/
 
#silosophy, #taniagomezconsulting, #supportworkerstore, #creatingahome, #ndisprovider, #disabilitysupport, #groupliving, #ndishousing, #caregivingjourney, #homecare, #supportworkers, #supportedliving, #disabilityinclusion, #personcentredcare, #ndissupports

SILosophy Episode 11 - Top SIL Software Solutions I TechAbility

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Anita Gover from TechAbility to explore how SIL providers can optimise their technology systems. From essential tech stacks to automation, AI-driven tools, and cybersecurity best practices, Anita shares expert insights on how providers can streamline operations, protect sensitive data, and leverage emerging technologies to enhance service delivery.
 
Whether you're a SIL provider struggling with system integrations or looking to future-proof your business with AI and automation, this episode is packed with practical advice on getting your tech right from the start.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Anita Gover from TechAbility
02:10 – What is TechAbility? IT consulting for NDIS, aged care & community services
04:20 – The essential tech stack for SIL providers: What systems do you really need?
08:40 – Common tech mistakes: Why too many systems create inefficiencies & extra costs
12:15 – Automations for SIL providers: How to streamline rostering, scheduling & billing
16:30 – The importance of integrations: Connecting your CRM, HR, and finance systems
19:05 – Cybersecurity & data privacy: Why every provider needs to prioritise protection
23:50 – AI-driven tools & predictive analytics: How AI can enhance service delivery
26:00 – The future of SIL tech: Emerging trends, PACE, and digital transformation
27:30 – Final thoughts & how to contact TechAbility
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/
 
#silosophy, #silsoftware, #techability, #taniagomezconsulting, #episode11, #silsolutions, #specialistinclusivelearning, #inclusiveeducation, #assistivetechnology, #edtech, #softwareforinclusion, #silapps, #disabilitysupport, #learningtechnology, #inclusionmatters

SILosophy Episode 10 - Advertising Vacancies I The Growth Academy | Tania Gomez Consulting

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Chris Lapa from The Growth Academy to discuss the essential strategies for filling SIL vacancies. They explore the intersection of marketing, branding, and sales—breaking down how SIL providers can effectively position their services, attract the right participants, and build trust with both users and choosers.
 
Chris shares insights into the power of storytelling, the role of digital marketing (Google Ads, Facebook campaigns, SEO, and LinkedIn), and the importance of a structured sales process. Whether you’re a SIL provider struggling with vacancies or looking to optimize your marketing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you grow.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Chris Lapa from The Growth Academy
03:15 – Chris’s background in marketing & why he focuses on the NDIS sector
06:10 – Why branding isn’t just about a logo—how to position your SIL
09:25 – The biggest mistake SIL providers make when trying to fill a vacancy
13:00 – The role of trust in SIL marketing & the emotional decision-making process
17:15 – Marketing channels: Facebook Ads, Google Ads, SEO & LinkedIn—what works best?
22:40 – Social media strategies & the limitations of Facebook ad targeting
27:30 – The power of networking: LinkedIn & community connections
31:00 – Crafting the right message: Speaking to both users & choosers
36:20 – The importance of sales: Why follow-ups, touchpoints, and processes matter
40:10 – Final thoughts & how to contact Chris for SIL marketing support
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/
 
#silosophy #episode10 #advertisingvacancies #growthacademy #taniagomezconsulting #jobadvertising #recruitmenttips #hrstrategy #hiringprocess #teamgrowth #careercoaching #workplaceculture #businessgrowth #leadershipdevelopment #jobvacancy

SILosophy Episode 9 - Paradise with Purpose I Community Home Australia | Tania Gomez Consulting

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Dr. Rodney Jilek from Community Home Australia to discuss their groundbreaking initiative—offering NDIS-funded short-term accommodation (STA) in Bali. Dr. Jilek shares the vision behind this unique respite option, the funding model, the benefits for participants, and how the program aligns with NDIS guidelines. They also delve into future plans, including the expansion into aged care and long-term retirement options in Bali.
 
If you’ve ever wondered about alternative respite models that prioritize both participant experience and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen!
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Dr. Rodney Gillek and the story behind Community Home Australia
02:10 – From aged care to NDIS: Dr. Gillek’s professional journey
04:30 – The origin of Bali STA: A new approach to respite care
08:45 – Overcoming sector pushback: Addressing misconceptions about NDIS funding for overseas respite
12:00 – How Bali STA is funded: NDIS-approved expenses vs. out-of-pocket costs
16:15 – Making respite accessible: The role of charitable funding for participants
19:20 – The Bali STA experience: What participants can expect on arrival
22:45 – Expanding the project: Plans for aged care and retirement living in Bali
27:10 – Sustainability, local community impact, and future plans
29:30 – Final thoughts & next steps for Community Home Australia
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/
 
#silosophy, #episode9, #paradisewithpurpose, #communityhomeaustralia, #taniagomezconsulting, #australiancommunity, #purposefulliving, #inclusivehousing, #disabilityservices, #ndis, #homewithpurpose, #socialimpact, #communitybuilding, #accessiblehousing, #silhousing

SILosophy Episode 8 - SIL Providers journey I MyAssista

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez welcomes Cedar Anderson, founder and director of MyAssista, to share her journey and insights into the world of Supported Independent Living (SIL). Cedar discusses the challenges of one-on-one SIL, balancing participant needs with business sustainability, and the importance of being participant-driven. With real-life lessons, financial advice, and a focus on quality care, this episode is packed with practical tips for new and experienced providers alike.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Cedar Anderson and the story behind MyAssista
02:30 – The beginnings of MyAssista: Transitioning from personal need to founding a SIL business
05:00 – Why one-on-one SIL? A unique approach to participant-directed care
08:40 – Overcoming challenges: Staff retention, training, and building trust with participants
12:10 – Financial realities of SIL: Crunching the numbers and ensuring viability
16:15 – Learning from mistakes: The costly lesson of assuming participant preferences
19:50 – Person-directed care: Building strong relationships for better outcomes
22:30 – The future of MyAssista: Diversifying revenue streams and entering aged care
25:50 – Advice for new SIL providers: Financial planning, processes, and teamwork
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

SILosophy Episode 7 - SIL Expansion

In this insightful episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Laura Cowell, CEO of Australian Operations for Tender Loving Care, to discuss strategic growth in the SIL (Supported Independent Living) space. From determining when it’s the right time to expand, to balancing participant needs with business sustainability, Laura shares her wealth of experience managing one of Australia’s largest for-purpose NDIS providers. Learn how to design participant-driven SIL homes, tackle common challenges, and maintain a culture of quality while scaling your operations.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Laura Cowell and her inspiring journey
02:10 – The right time to grow: Indicators that it’s time to expand your SIL operations
05:40 – Participant-led growth: The importance of designing homes based on individual needs
08:30 – Flatmate matching: Building harmonious living environments and fostering participant satisfaction
12:45 – Common pitfalls: Avoiding mistakes in growth strategies
16:00 – Balancing quality and quantity: Ensuring consistent care and service standards while expanding
20:15 – Treating each home as a business unit: Financial modelling and sustainability in SIL homes
24:30 – Risk management: How to assess and mitigate risks before expansion
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

SILosophy Episode 6 - Service Agreements that Work

In this episode of SILosophy, host Tania Gomez is joined by Josh Pix, co-founder of Resolv, to unpack the complexities of service agreements in the SIL space. Josh provides actionable insights into avoiding common pitfalls, managing open agreements, handling emergencies, and ensuring financial sustainability while delivering exceptional participant care. This is an essential listen for SIL providers looking to strengthen their service agreements and protect their businesses.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Josh Pix from Resolv
01:20 – What Resolv does: Supporting SIL providers with rostering, claiming, and financial stability
03:00 – The risks of poor service agreements: Why they matter
04:45 – Understanding open service agreements and how they expose providers to financial risks
08:10 – What is over-servicing? Defining and identifying intentional and unintentional over-servicing
10:50 – The six-step process for managing over-servicing and ensuring shared responsibility
14:30 – Emergency situations: Hospitalisation, incarceration, and how to navigate funding gaps
16:40 – Programmes of support: What they are and why SIL providers need them
19:00 – Building robust service agreements: Essential clauses and considerations for providers
21:00 – Final advice for SIL providers: Addressing risks, promoting shared responsibility, and ensuring participant care
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

SILosophy Episode 5 - Building a Brand as a SIL Provider

In this episode of SILosophy, host Tania Gomez sits down with Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and co-creator of SILosophy, to explore the critical role of branding in the NDIS sector. Tommy explains why branding is not just for big companies and how SIL providers can use storytelling, authenticity, and strategic design to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Whether you're just starting your SIL journey or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stand out.
 
Episode Highlights with Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and branding expert
01:50 – Why the disability sector needs a branding revolution
05:30 – SIL branding: Why 9 out of 10 SIL providers look identical and how to stand out
09:45 – Defining brand: More than just a logo or colour palette
13:00 – The power of the “why”: Building trust through purpose-driven branding
17:25 – Storytelling as a key branding strategy: Tommy’s personal experiences
21:10 – The challenges of branding for SIL providers: Vulnerability and authenticity
25:45 – Practical tips for crafting a compelling brand identity
30:00 – Branding for inclusivity: Designing with participants’ needs in mind
33:15 – Tommy’s #1 tip for SIL providers to strengthen their brand
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

SILosophy Episode 4 - Healthy SIL Homes

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania sits down with Scott Chapman, the visionary founder of Able Digital Wellness. They discuss how creating healthier Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes can lead to better outcomes for participants, support workers, and providers.
 
Scott shares the journey of founding Able Digital Wellness to improve the lives of his nephew and others in SIL, highlighting the importance of tailored exercise, nutrition, and wellness programs. The conversation dives into the role of transparent accountability, practical strategies for healthier living, and how providers can differentiate themselves by embracing wellness-focused approaches.
 
Episode Highlights:
 
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Scott Chapman and the story behind Able Digital Wellness
02:15 – The inspiration to improve SIL homes through health and wellness
07:00 – The challenges of supporting participants in making healthier choices
10:20 – How Able Digital Wellness personalises wellness plans to individual needs
13:30 – Benefits for SIL providers: Reduced staff turnover and improved participant retention
18:45 – Transparent accountability: How detailed reporting builds trust with families
22:10 – Addressing gaps in support worker skills through customised training content
 
Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting
 
Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/