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03 8351 9901 Level 3, 304/1510 Pascoe Vale Road
Coolaroo VIC 3048

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Specialist Disability Accommodation

What is SDA?

SDA stands for Specialist Disability Accommodation which is an NDIS term for accessible housing. It is an NDIS funded support that allows for participant’s to have access to accessible accommodation that supports their independence. There are five categories of accessibility that you can access ranging from Improved Livability to High Physical Support. The SDA funding you receive varies depending on your specific accessibility needs and what has been recommended for you by your occupational Therapist.

Accessing Your Specialist Disability Accommodation

Participants can access their category of SDA Accessibility in a range of different building types such as Apartments, Townhouses, Detached housing or group homes with multiple residents. You can have access to your in-home supports through ‘Assistance with Daily Living’ supports or have access to up to 24 hour care through SIL funding.

Generally speaking, participants who have been approved for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) will usually be approved for SIL funding so they may have access to the supports they need whilst living in their accessible accommodation. The amount of SIL & SDA funding you receive is at the discretion of the NDIA and what they consider reasonable and necessary.

What are the different building types I can access? 

Apartments

Self-contained units that are part of a larger building.

Duplexes, Villas or Townhouses

Separate but Semi-attached properties.

Houses

Detached low rise homes with their own garden or courtyard.

Group Homes

Housing with four or five residents sharing support.

Categories of Accessibility

1 Improved Livability

Housing with better physical access that supports people with intellectual, sensory or cognitive impairments.

2 Fully Accessible

This encompasses physically accessible housing that includes many features to support people who face a lot of physical barriers due to their disabilities.

3 Robust Housing

Heavy duty housing to support people living with complex and challenging behaviours who engage in property damage. Robust housing is built with tough and extra strong features to reduce the needs for repairs and maintenance.

4 High Physical Support

Accommodation that includes a high level of accessibility for those who need a very high level of support. This type of housing is built to allow for personalised equipment such as hoists, backup power supplies, home automation and/or communication technology.

Who can Access our SDA Homes? 

Adults living with a permanent disability who have high support needs on a day to day basis. In order to become one of our residents you must have an active NDIS Plan approved for ‘Specialist Disability Accommodation’. If you have already been approved for SDA please contact our team by calling us on 03 8351 9901, filling out the enquiry form or emailing SDA@Melbournedisabilityservices.com.

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FAQ's

1. What is NDIS SDA?
NDIS SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) is housing designed for people with high or complex support needs who are eligible under the NDIS. These homes offer specialised designs to cater to individuals with disabilities, providing tailored features such as wider doors, accessible bathrooms, and additional safety features. SDA aims to help participants live as independently as possible, ensuring comfort and ease in daily living.
2. Who is eligible for NDIS SDA? Eligibility for NDIS SDA is determined by a person’s disability-related needs and goals. To qualify, an individual must meet specific criteria within the NDIS, including having a permanent and significant disability that requires high-level supports. The NDIS planner will assess a participant’s needs to determine if SDA funding is appropriate based on their ability to live independently and the level of support required.

3. What are the different types of NDIS SDA?

There are three main types of NDIS SDA housing:

  1. Robust Housing: Designed for people with sensory, cognitive, or intellectual disabilities, providing features like higher contrast, better lighting, and clear pathways. This type of housing offers durability and is tailored to individuals who may have more challenging behaviours or require a more resilient living environment.
  2. Fully Accessible: Built for people with significant mobility impairments, these homes offer features like wheelchair access, hoists, and accessible bathrooms.
  3. High Physical Support: Tailored for individuals with very high support needs, this type includes specialized equipment like ceiling hoists, adjustable height benches, and accessible kitchens.

4. What is the funding process for NDIS SDA?

NDIS SDA funding is included in a participant’s NDIS plan. The funding is used to pay for the cost of the accommodation, including rent and any necessary modifications to the home. To receive SDA funding, participants need to demonstrate the need for specialised housing through their NDIS plan. This involves providing detailed information about their disability and living requirements during the planning meeting.

5. How do I apply for NDIS SDA funding?

To apply for NDIS SDA funding, you must first be an NDIS participant and have a current plan. During the planning process, you will need to explain your disability and how it impacts your daily living. Your planner will assess whether SDA is suitable for you. You may need to provide supporting documentation from medical professionals or other specialists to demonstrate your need for specialist accommodation.

6. Can I choose my NDIS SDA provider? Yes, participants can choose their preferred SDA provider based on the housing options available. There are many SDA housing providers offering a range of properties that suit different needs and preferences. It’s important to assess the available options, including the type of housing, location, and features that best meet your individual requirements.
7. What are the costs associated with NDIS SDA?
 NDIS SDA funding covers the costs of the accommodation itself, which includes rent and maintenance. However, participants are still responsible for other living expenses, such as utilities (electricity, water), food, and personal care, which are not covered by SDA funding. The NDIS funding is designed to help with the cost of specialized housing, but participants may still need to contribute to daily living expenses.
8. Can NDIS SDA be used for shared accommodation? Yes, NDIS SDA can be used for shared accommodation. Many SDA providers offer shared housing options, where multiple participants live together and share the costs of the accommodation. This can be a good choice for individuals who prefer to live with others while receiving the necessary support. The NDIS allows flexibility in choosing either shared or individual accommodation depending on personal preferences and support needs.
9. What features are included in NDIS SDA homes?

NDIS SDA homes are designed to include features that make living easier for people with disabilities. These features may include:

  • Wide doorways and hallways for wheelchair access
  • Adjustable-height benches and counters for better accessibility
  • Hoists and lifting equipment for mobility support
  • Accessible bathrooms with grab rails, roll-in showers, and specialized fixtures
  • Clear and safe paths of travel within the home, reducing barriers to independence

These features vary depending on the type of SDA (e.g., Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support).
10. How do I find NDIS SDA accommodation near me? Finding NDIS SDA accommodation involves searching for available providers in your area. You can begin by browsing the NDIS website or contacting local housing providers who specialise in SDA homes. There are also online platforms and services that list SDA properties, where you can filter options based on location, features, and accommodation type. It’s advisable to visit potential homes and assess their suitability for your needs before making a decision.
11. Can I live independently in NDIS SDA homes? Yes, one of the main goals of NDIS SDA is to enable individuals to live as independently as possible. SDA homes are designed with accessibility and independence in mind, offering features and equipment that support individuals to manage daily activities with less assistance. The level of independence you have will depend on your individual needs and the type of SDA you are living in, but most SDA accommodations promote autonomy and independence.
12. Can family members live with me in NDIS SDA? Family members can live with you in an NDIS SDA home, provided the home has space and the arrangement meets your individual needs. However, the NDIS funding covers only the costs related to your accommodation, and family members may need to cover their own living expenses. It’s important to discuss this with your NDIS planner to ensure your housing needs and preferences are appropriately accounted for.
13. How long does it take to get NDIS SDA? The process of getting NDIS SDA accommodation can take several months. The application for SDA funding depends on your individual plan review and whether your needs qualify for specialized accommodation. Once approved, finding a suitable home can take additional time, as availability may vary. It’s essential to start the process early and communicate with your NDIS planner and housing providers to expedite the timeline.