In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Stephen Fakeney, CEO of Hilltop Caring, to explore what it really takes to be a successful SIL provider. With over 25 years in disability accommodation and experience in both the construction and service delivery sides of SIL, Stephen shares valuable lessons for new and existing providers, covering financial sustainability, innovation, collaboration, and the future of SIL in 2025.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with guest Stephen Fakeney from Hilltop Caring

02:15 – Stephen’s 25-year journey in disability accommodation & SIL

04:30 – How SIL has evolved under the NDIS – More choice, competition & innovation

08:20 – Tight funding margins in SIL & how to balance financial sustainability

10:45 – Vacancies are the biggest financial risk – How to manage them effectively

13:30 – Challenges of bureaucracy & NDIS admin workload

16:50 – Why small & medium-sized SIL providers drive innovation in the sector

19:10 – Advice for new SIL providers – Consider collaborating instead of going solo

21:00 – The importance of empowering staff to make decisions & reducing micromanagement

23:10 – Preparing for unannounced audits & the importance of compliance checklists

24:30 – The future of SIL in 2025 – Potential changes & how to adapt

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