Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a type of housing designed for people with very high support needs. Most standard homes don’t have the accessibility features required for someone with extreme functional impairment. SDA fills this gap by providing purpose-built homes that make daily life safer and more comfortable.
This guide helps you understand how SDA funding works under the NDIS. We’ll look at the different types of housing available and how the NDIS decides who can access this support.
Key Takeaways
- SDA is purpose-built housing funded by the NDIS for those with the high support needs.
- The funding covers the “bricks and mortar” costs of the home itself.
- Eligibility depends on having an extreme functional impairment or a need for constant, intense daily support.
- Unisson Disability helps participants find suitable SDA properties that match their specific lifestyle and care requirements.
How does Specialist Disability Accommodation work?
SDA refers to homes that include very specific design features to help people live as they choose. These homes aren’t just standard rentals with a few ramps. They’re built from the ground up to include things like wider doorways, reinforced ceilings for hoist equipment, and smart home technology.
The NDIS funds the cost of the home through your Capital Supports budget. This is separate from the funding you receive for your daily care or therapy. While the NDIS pays for the “bricks and mortar” part of the home, you’ll usually still contribute to your rent and daily living costs like utilities.
How do you know if you qualify for SDA?
The NDIS has very specific rules about who can receive SDA funding. It’s generally reserved for participants who find it very difficult to live safely in mainstream housing. To qualify, the NDIS will look at whether you meet two main criteria:
- Do you have extreme functional impairment?
This means your disability makes it very hard to do daily activities like moving around your home, looking after yourself, or communicating. You might need a home that’s specifically built to handle mobility aids or sensory needs that standard homes can’t accommodate.
- Do you have very high support needs?
You might qualify if you need someone to be with you for most of the day and night. The NDIS considers SDA “reasonable and necessary” if a purpose-built home will significantly reduce the level of risk in your daily life or make your other supports more effective.
What are the different types of SDA housing?
SDA homes aren’t “one size fits all”. They are divided into four main categories based on the level of support a person needs.
- Improved Liveability: These homes are designed for people with sensory or cognitive needs. They usually have features that make it easier to see or navigate the home.
- Fully Accessible: This category is for people with significant physical limitations. These homes are wheelchair-friendly throughout, with level access and modified kitchens and bathrooms.
- High Physical Support: These homes include everything in the Fully Accessible category plus extras like ceiling hoists, emergency power backup, and high-level communication technology.
- Robust: These houses are built to be very strong and safe. They’re designed for people who might have complex behaviours that challenge and need an environment that’s resilient and reduces the risk of injury to self and others.
How can Unisson Disability help you find the right home?
Finding the right place to live is a major milestone. At Unisson, we help you navigate the search for a home that fits your personality and your support needs. We work closely with you and your family to ensure the property is in the right location and has the features you need to feel comfortable.
We can help you by:
- Identifying SDA Vacancies: We work closely with quality SDA developers to build homes designed for comfort and ease. We have a wide variety of SDA homes available or can connect you with a trusted partner if there isn’t a home in your ideal location.
- Coordinating Your Move: We support a smooth transition into your new home by coordinating closely with your Support Coordinator, Behaviour Support Practitioner, Occupational Therapist, and family members. Our team ensures every move is carefully planned, personalised to the participant’s needs, and focused on safety, stability, and a positive start in their new living environment.
- Managing Your Supports: Our team can provide the on-site support you need within your SDA home, tailored to your individual goals.
- SDA Applications: We can support you through the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) application process, which can often be complex and time-consuming. Our experienced team will help you understand eligibility, gather the required assessments and evidence, and map out each step. We work closely with your Support Coordinator and allied health professionals to ensure everyone is aligned and guided throughout the process.
Ready to find a home that fits your life? Contact our friendly team today to explore our current SDA properties and support options, or check our Properties page to confirm availability of SDA housing in your area today. To learn more about SDA, visit our Specialist Disability Accommodation page!
