rq-living

Beyond the Bathroom: Why a True SIL Home Requires Social and Lifestyle Compatibility

Sun, 17 May 2026 05:00:12 GMT

When people think about moving into a Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangement, it is easy to get caught up in the physical building. People often talk about ramps, modified kitchens, and accessible bathrooms.

However, those physical features are actually Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) —the brick-and-mortar part of housing.

SIL is different. For us at RQ Living, SIL is all about the human side of living independently. It funds the support workers who help you with cooking, personal care, and daily tasks. While an occupational therapist handles the physical safety of a house, sector research shows that a true home requires looking at the holistic, social, and emotional side of life.

High-quality SIL is no longer just about assigning support workers to a vacant bedroom. It is about lifestyle alignment, cultural safety, and building genuine community connections.

What Does This Mean for NDIS Participants and Families?

Moving into a shared living arrangement is a major life milestone. If a participant is matched into a home based only on their medical diagnoses or physical needs, the environment can quickly feel more like a clinic than a home.

True independence thrives when housemates actually get along. For participants and their families, a lifestyle-first approach to SIL support means:

A Real Sense of Belonging: Having a support roster that aligns with the household's shared routines, communication styles, and interests (whether that is watching the footy, cooking, or enjoying a quiet, low-sensory environment).
Emotional Safety: Knowing that your support team respects your personal values, identity, and cultural background.
Long-Term Stability: When housemates and their support teams are socially compatible, daily stress decreases, friendships form, and the living arrangement stays stable for years to come.

What Does This Mean for Referrers and Sector Professionals?

For Support Coordinators, Allied Health Professionals, and Community Workers, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is pushing for a strict, transparent separation between housing (SDA landlords) and daily care (SIL providers).

When you refer a participant to a SIL provider that prioritises social and lifestyle compatibility, it drastically improves your client's outcomes:

Easier Transitions: Clients transitioning out of the family home or school systems experience significantly less anxiety when they know their daily support team understands their personal goals.
Efficient Shared Rosters: A well-matched household allows rosters of care to be designed smoothly. This ensures that shared support hours benefit everyone’s social goals without compromising individual attention.
Better Clinical Outcomes: Therapists find that clients achieve their capacity-building goals much faster when their SIL team fosters a positive, low-stress, and motivating environment at home.

How RQ Living Focuses on the Human Side: Our Matching Process

At RQ Living, our team is always at the forefront of NDIS updates and best-practice guidelines. We know that a premium SIL experience requires a staged, deeply human-centric approach. We don’t just look at a participant's funding line items; we look at who they are as a person.

Here is how our unique, step-by-step compatibility process works when welcoming someone into a shared SIL environment:

Looking for a SIL provider that values compatibility over checklists?

Whether you are a coordinator looking for a compliant, premium SIL partner in Western Australia, or a family planning the next big step, the RQ Living team is here to help. Reach out to us today to talk about our person-centered matching process.

Starting 2026 on the Right Path: When Support Truly Changes Lives

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:34:46 GMT

As we step into 2026, we’ve been taking time to reflect on what matters most at RQ Living — not growth for its own sake, but the real, human impact of support done well.

Recently, we received a piece of feedback from an external allied health professional that deeply resonated with our team. It spoke not about policies or processes, but about a person’s life changing — and that is why we do this work.

When the Right Support Makes All the Difference

Supported Independent Living should be more than a roof and a roster. It should feel like home. It should create safety, trust, and the space for someone to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

In this case, an allied health professional reflected on the experience of a participant who had moved into an RQ Living home after years of transitions across multiple providers. What stood out was not just improvement — but how quickly and deeply life had shifted once the right environment and support were in place.

Below is the testimonial in full - anonymised to protect and respect privacy.

A Testimonial from an Allied Health Professional

“I wanted to provide some positive feedback on behalf of my client, whom I provide Positive Behaviour Support to.

They have recently moved into accommodation with RQ Living, supported by Ellen and Prisca. I have seen this person through multiple houses and providers over the years, and I have never seen such a drastic improvement in their quality of life since being with this team.

Their mood, motivation to live a fulfilling and productive life, and positive social engagement has absolutely sky-rocketed in just the last few months.

Both Ellen and Prisca have been very proactive in correspondence, and implementing suggested strategies has been a huge success. Based on my conversations with Ellen and my interactions with the rest of the support workers, it is clear that this organisation’s values are making a direct positive impact — not only on the people supported, but also on employees, which then positively affects external service providers like myself.

I just wanted to express my gratitude to the whole team and acknowledge the phenomenal work being done. Thank you.”

Why This Matters to Us

Feedback like this reminds us that quality support is relational. It’s built through:

Trust and consistency
Genuine collaboration with allied health and families
Support workers who listen, care, and follow through
Environments where people feel safe enough to grow

When these elements come together, people don’t just stabilise — they begin to thrive.

More Than Just Support: How Compassion and Consistency Transform Lives at RQ Living

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:40:26 GMT

Recently, we received a testimonial from Natalie Dalziell , a professional in the disability sector, whose words capture the very heart of why we do what we do.

In the world of disability support, there is a profound difference between simply "providing a service" and truly changing a life.

At RQ Living, we believe that every individual deserves more than just a plan—they deserve a partner who sees the person first, honours their dignity, and works tirelessly to restore their sense of purpose.

A Story of Impact: Natalie Dalziell’s Experience

"I cannot speak highly enough of RQ Living. Their team has gone above and beyond to support my client, and the difference they’ve made has been absolutely life-changing.

From day one, the staff at RQ Living showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to truly understanding my client’s needs. They didn’t just “provide support” — they built trust, created stability, and restored a sense of purpose and dignity. The progress my client has made under their care has exceeded everyone’s expectations.

Their communication, responsiveness, and teamwork with allied health and support coordination have been exceptional. They take initiative, problem-solve proactively, and always follow through. Most importantly, they treat every individual as a person first — with respect, empathy, and consistency.

RQ Living is a shining example of what quality disability support should look like. I’m deeply grateful for the difference they’ve made and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to any family or professional looking for a provider that genuinely cares and delivers outstanding outcomes."

The RQ Living Difference: Why We’re Different

Natalie’s experience highlights the "RQ Equation" we live by: EQ + IQ + SQ = RQ . By combining Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Intellectual Intelligence (IQ), and Spiritual Intelligence (SQ), we achieve Realisation Intelligence (RQ) . This means we lead with heart, mind, and purpose to build lasting connections, not just checkboxes.

What sets us apart?

A "Never Say No" Attitude: We don’t just think outside the box; we dissect it. If a barrier exists, we work proactively with allied health teams and coordinators to find a solution.
Person-First Philosophy: As Natalie noted, we treat every individual with the respect and empathy they deserve. We focus on building trust and stability, which are the foundations of true progress.
Connected Care: We understand that high-quality support requires exceptional communication. We pride ourselves on being a cohesive part of a participant's wider team, ensuring that every professional involved is moving in the same direction.

Our Services: Tailored to Your Journey

Whether you are seeking independence at home or a more connected life in the community, our services are designed to be flexible and life-changing:

Supported Independent Living (SIL) & Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): We offer beautiful, accessible homes in prime locations where residents enjoy a full lifestyle experience.
Individualised Living Options (ILO): Support that is uniquely built around your routines and goals.
Hospital to Home Transitions: We specialise in the complex journey from hospital care back into the community, ensuring a safe, smooth, and supported transition.
Community Access & Skill Development: From creative workshops and social outings to learning everyday life skills, we help you stay connected and in control.

Start Your Next Chapter with RQ Living

At RQ Living, we aren't just a provider—we are a community dedicated to helping you shine. If you are a family member, a participant, or a professional like Natalie looking for a provider that genuinely cares and delivers, we would love to hear from you.

Ready to see the difference quality support can make?

Contact the RQ Living Team today for a visit, a chat and to learn more about how we can support your journey.

From Crisis to Community: The RQ Living Story

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:57:13 GMT

At RQ Living, we believe that everyone deserves a fresh start, a stage to shine, and a life filled with purpose. Our mission is to provide more than just care; we create a space where individuals can rediscover independence, joy, and a sense of belonging. Our story is best told through the lives of the people we support, like Marian (Ma) and Dyan Moore .

Ma's Second Chance

Ma's world was turned upside down after a sudden health crisis led to a seven-month hospital stay. When she was ready to be discharged, she didn't just need a place to live; she needed a home where she could rebuild her life. That's where RQ Living came in. Now living at our Macquarie Park location, Ma has rediscovered her independence. With the help of our dedicated support staff and assistive technology, she's back to enjoying her life on her own terms—dining out, catching up with friends, and living with a newfound sense of freedom. As Ma says, "Find people who treat you like family."

Our ability to help people like Ma is rooted in our collaborative approach with hospitals. We specialise in transitioning individuals from hospital care to our facilities , which helps to release much-needed hospital beds. Our multidisciplinary team, including clinical nurses and allied health professionals, works closely with hospital staff on discharge planning and securing appropriate accommodation.

Dyan's Moment to Shine

Dyan Moore's journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the right environment. A first-time exhibiting artist living with 22q syndrome, Dyan's recent art exhibition was more than just a display of her vibrant resin artworks; it was a celebration of her being seen, heard, and valued. At RQ Living, we provide a stage for people to shine by fostering a community that encourages creativity and independence. We are here to support people like Dyan and her family, as well as healthcare professionals and corporate partners who share our belief in a better, more connected future.

Our Promise: Genuine, Active Support

Our commitment is to deliver on our promise of life-changing care. We achieve this through a flat organisational structure that keeps us connected to the ground , ensuring our knowledge and expertise are directly imparted to our staff. Our recruitment process is culture-focused , driven by our directors Ellen and Dino, who actively seek out individuals with empathy and a passion for this space. We look for a particular personality—whether they have years of experience or are new to the field, we place them in a role where they can be successful.

We also work with individuals from the criminal justice system, and our genuine, active support has been recognised. We focus on enabling individuals and reducing restrictive practices , such as controlling access to personal items, to help them live with greater autonomy. For example, a previous participant who experienced suicidal ideation has now found stability and genuine support through our interconnected care model.

At RQ Living, we don't just provide services; we help you write your next chapter. Because the right care is truly life-changing.

Supported Independent Living vs. Specialist Disability Accommodation: Understanding the Difference

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:50:00 GMT

Navigating the NDIS can be complex, and understanding the different types of support available is key to creating a plan that works for you. Two important, and often confused, funding streams are Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). While they sound similar, they are distinct and designed to work together to provide comprehensive support.

Essentially, SIL is about how you live, while SDA is about where you live.

Let's break down the key differences:

Supported Independent Living (SIL):

What it covers: SIL funding is for the support services you need to live independently. This includes assistance from support workers with daily tasks such as:
Personal care (showering, dressing, etc.)
Meal preparation and cooking
Household chores and routines
Medication management
Developing independent living skills and community access
The goal: The primary focus of SIL is to help you build your skills and maximise your autonomy, empowering you to live as independently as possible.
Who it's for: SIL is for individuals who have significant support needs and require some level of assistance at home, often around the clock.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA):

What it covers: SDA funding is for the physical dwelling itself. It covers the cost of specialised housing that has been designed or modified to meet the needs of people with very high support needs or extreme functional impairments. Think of it as the "bricks and mortar" aspect.
The goal: SDA aims to provide a safe and accessible physical environment that allows you to live comfortably and receive the high level of support you need.
Who it's for: This funding is for NDIS participants who require a specific type of home due to their disability. The SDA provider is responsible for the property's maintenance and upkeep.

Can you receive both?

Yes! Many participants are eligible for and receive both SIL and SDA funding. For example, an individual might have SDA funding to live in a specially designed, accessible home and also have SIL funding to pay for the support workers who assist them with daily tasks within that home. The two funding streams are designed to complement each other, providing both the right physical environment and the right support services.

How RQ Living Approaches Supported Independent Living

At RQ Living, we don't just provide services—we are passionate about creating meaningful change. Our approach to SIL is what sets us apart. While the NDIS guidelines provide the framework, our philosophy is to go beyond the box. We are uniquely positioned to offer exceptional flexibility.

When we work with you on your SIL plan, we don't just fill out a form; we get to know you as a person. We are committed to a person-centered approach where:

You have choice and control: We work with you to understand your goals and aspirations, tailoring support that helps you achieve them.
We dissect the problem: When we encounter a barrier, we don't give up. We are dedicated to finding innovative solutions and exploring all possibilities to help you live a safe and happy life.
You are heard, always: Your voice is at the center of every decision. We believe in open communication and a collaborative partnership to ensure your support is exactly what you need.

Our commitment is to work with you to shape your own journey and achieve the goals you've always dreamed of, but never thought possible. We believe that with the right support, anything is achievable.

Ready to learn more about how our flexible and person-centered approach can help you with your SIL journey? Get in touch with us today.

Our Global Heart: Partnering with Destiny Rescue

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:45:17 GMT

At RQ Living, our purpose is deeply rooted in creating meaningful change, and we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a safe, happy, and fulfilled life. This philosophy extends beyond our local community and guides our proud partnership with Destiny Rescue , a remarkable organisation dedicated to rescuing and restoring children from human trafficking and exploitation worldwide.

The Destiny Rescue Story

Founded in 2001 by Tony Kirwan, Destiny Rescue's journey began with a powerful, personal conviction. After hearing a harrowing story about child exploitation in Thailand, Tony knew he had to act. He says, “When I heard this story it really hit me and I knew I had to do something. It was at this point, I believe God put the vision of Destiny Rescue in my heart.”

Since then, Destiny Rescue has grown into a global force, rescuing thousands of children and equipping them with the tools they need to stay free. Their work is a testament to the belief that every voice matters and every life can be restored.

Destiny Rescue's mission is to rescue kids from sexual exploitation and human trafficking and to equip them to stay free . They achieve this through a holistic approach that includes:

Rescue Operations: Actively working to find and remove children from exploitative situations.
Reintegration Programs: Providing comprehensive aftercare, including trauma recovery, education, and vocational training to ensure lasting freedom.
Prevention Efforts: Educating communities and working to prevent exploitation before it starts.

Purpose with Impact: Our Alignment

Our partnership with Destiny Rescue is a natural alignment of purpose and values. At RQ Living, we are obsessed with helping individuals live a safe and happy life, and we are committed to ensuring every person has choice and control , a voice , and is always heard . This is the same foundation that Destiny Rescue is built on. While they work to secure the freedom of children globally, we work to empower individuals to live independently and with dignity right here in Australia. Both missions are centered on the fundamental belief that everyone deserves to be free and fulfilled.

How We Support

Our team at RQ Living is dedicated to actively supporting Destiny Rescue's vital work. We contribute in a number of ways:

Charity Events: Our staff conduct and participate in fundraising events, such as art auctions, to raise funds.
Donations at Our Events: We provide a donation option at our facility opening days and at our presence during exhibitions, such as the recent Perth Disability Connection Expo.
Corporate Collaboration: We collaborate with Destiny Rescue's corporate sponsors to conduct dollar-for-dollar matching, amplifying the impact of every donation.

By working together, we can help amplify the voices of those who are enslaved and those who have been freed, because everyone deserves the opportunity to live a free and fulfilled life.

 Find out more about Destiny Rescue and their incredible work here: https://www.destinyrescue.org.au/our-story/

The Perth Disability Connection Expo: A Resounding Success!

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 01:07:01 GMT

Thank you to everyone who visited the RQ Living exhibition space at the Perth Disability Connection Expo on August 8th and 9th! It was a fantastic couple of days, and we truly enjoyed connecting with so many of you.

One of our biggest highlights was finally meeting people in person who we usually only speak with over the phone or through emails. There's something special about putting a face to a name and having those genuine, face-to-face conversations.

Key Takeaways from the Expo

Our team was also busy networking and exploring all the wonderful services and opportunities available. We discovered a range of exciting things we can use to further support our participants and enhance our services. From adaptive sports like ice hockey and football to a variety of sensory items , the expo was full of innovative ideas that we're excited to incorporate.

We also had some incredibly rewarding interactions. One potential participant was particularly impressed with how we approached her questions, noting that we were focused on her as a person, not just her disability. This is at the heart of what we do.

Our Approach to Supported Independent Living

At RQ Living, we're an NDIS and specialist services provider who is obsessed with creating meaningful change. We’re uniquely positioned to offer exceptional flexibility, which means we never say no. When we hit a wall, we don’t just think outside the box—we dissect it, going above and beyond to help someone live a safe and happy life.

We believe that you should have choice and control . You have a voice, and you are always heard.

We specialise in Supported Independent Living (SIL) , which is a type of NDIS funding that helps individuals with disabilities live more independently in their own homes. This funding provides support workers who can assist with daily tasks, personal care, and other activities. It's designed for people with higher support needs who require around-the-clock assistance to live as independently as possible.

Ready to Start a Conversation?

If you're looking for help or supervision with your daily tasks and want to build your skills to live more independently, we'd love to hear from you. Please get in touch so we can help you with how to access the support you need.

From Hospital Gown to Girl About Town

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 03:54:57 GMT

Meet Marian, or “Ma,” as her friends call her.

After a sudden health crisis left her in hospital for seven months, Ma didn’t just need a place to live. She needed a fresh start.

Now living at RQ Living’s Macquarie Park, she’s rediscovered independence and joy, dining out, catching up with friends, and doing it all on her terms.

With support staff and assistive tech that makes daily life more manageable, Ma is living proof of what happens when care is provided by the right team.

“Find people who treat you like family,” says Ma.

RQ Living is the sister company of Utano Care, and together, we’re reimagining disability support across Perth, Sydney and beyond.

A Whole Lot Moore out of Life

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:53:46 GMT

Dyan Moore is a first-time exhibiting artist.

When she debuted her vibrant resin artworks to a room full of supporters, her exhibition wasn’t just about art; it was about being seen, heard, and celebrated.

With an environment that fosters creativity and independence, Dyan has found a space where she can truly thrive while she manages living with 22q syndrome.

RQ living is the stage that lets you shine. We do this through creating assistance and communities where people are supported to live meaningful, connected lives.

We’re here for people like Dyan, and for families, healthcare professionals, and corporate partners who believe in better. We are setting the stage.

Because the right care is life changing.