Specialist Disability Accommodation is a type of housing that is funded through the NDIS and is available to participants who are eligible and/or possess functional impairment or very high levels of support needs. Call SDA Life in Perth for more information on eligibility and housing types.
What Is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
Specialist Disability Accommodation is a dwelling developed for participants of the NDIS. These participants require housing solutions for either functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA funding contributes to the cost of the specialist dwelling.
Who Is Eligible for SDA?
The SDA eligibility criteria are determined by NDIA under the NDIS framework. The participant will need to possess either extreme functional impairment or very high support needs that cannot be met by standard housing. You will need reports from allied health professionals to submit to NDIS. SDA is only funded for participants who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Types Of SDA Housing
There are four types of SDA housing design categories. Improved Liveability (designed for sensory impairment or cognitive impairment), Fully Accessible (designed for a disability that impacts mobility), High Physical Support (includes a variety of specific accessibility features) and Robust (designed for complex behavioural support needs). These types of SDA may include apartments, villas, duplexes, and townhouses.
SDA Design Standards
The SDA Design Standard outlines design and construction criteria for accessibility, liveability, and safety. All SDA dwellings must also meet the building code requirements of the Australian National Construction Code and state/local laws.
Applying for SDA funding
Participants generally need supporting evidence demonstrating eligibility under SDA criteria and submit a Home and Living Supports Request before NDIS assesses the request. You may want to consult a provider or support co-ordinator.
Benefits of SDA
SDA houses are built with safety features, enabling technologies and may be in proximity to services, family and social events. SDA homes may also help maximise support services utilisation.
Obtaining Suitable SDA
Identifying the SDA that best suits your needs requires using the SDA Finder and/or Housing Hub. Factors such as location, type of accessibility features, SDA design category and suitable support levels will need to be considered. Participants’ choice and control are important considerations when selecting SDA living arrangements.
SDA vs. SIL (Supported Independent Living)
SDA housing is a physical dwelling, and SIL (Supported Independent Living) refers to the support a participant receives within the SDA housing. SIL and SDA work together to support the participants.
Challenges and Considerations
A barrier to the application of SDA is the rules regarding who is eligible for SDA funding, the evidence that must be provided, and a general lack of appropriate housing. Finding SDA can be much easier if you are with a well-experienced SDA provider.
Choosing SDA
Specialist Disability Accommodation focuses on improving a participant’s independence, accessibility and daily life. The provision of well-maintained, quality-built homes can support long-term accessibility, comfort, and stability for eligible participants.
For information on Specialist Disability Accommodation, contact SDA Life.