What You Need to Know About SDA

What is SDA?

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to housing that has been specially designed or modified for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. These properties are funded under the NDIS to give participants a safe, accessible, and supportive living environment. SDA is not about the support services themselves, but rather the home that makes it easier for participants to receive the care they need.

The Four Categories of SDA

SDA properties are divided into four design categories, each tailored to meet different levels of accessibility and support:

1. Improved Liveability

   • Designed for people with sensory, intellectual, or cognitive impairments.

   • Features include better lighting, improved wayfinding, and accessible home layouts to make everyday life easier.

     
     

2. Fully Accessible

   • Built for people with significant physical disabilities.

   • Provides step-free access throughout the home, wide doorways, accessible bathrooms and kitchens, and other features that allow for independence in a wheelchair-friendly environment.

     
     

3. Robust

   • Designed for people who may have behaviours of concern and require a strong and resilient home.

   • These properties are built with durable materials, soundproofing, and safe spaces to reduce the risk of injury to residents and damage to the property.

     
     

4. High Physical Support

   • Tailored for people with very high care needs who require extensive support.

   • Includes features such as ceiling hoists, backup power supply, home automation, and emergency response systems to ensure safety and support.

     
     

Why SDA is Important？

SDA housing gives participants the opportunity to live more independently, safely, and with greater dignity. It also provides reassurance to families, carers, and landlords that the property is built to the highest standards of accessibility and care.

Our SDA Homes – 2–3 Participant, Single-Storey Houses

At present, our SDA properties are primarily single-storey houses designed for 2–3 participants. This model offers a balance between independence, comfort, and support.

Key Benefits:

1. More Privacy & Comfort

   • With only 2–3 participants in each home, residents can enjoy a quieter, more personal environment while still having the opportunity to build social connections.

     
     

2. Better Accessibility

   • Single-storey layouts remove the challenges of stairs and multiple levels, making movement around the home safer and easier for participants with mobility needs.

     
     

3. Easier to Manage & Maintain

   • For both landlords and providers, single-storey properties are simpler to maintain, while still meeting all SDA standards.

     
     

4. Flexibility for Participants

   • Homes are designed to support individual needs, ensuring each participant has their own private bedroom and bathroom while sharing common spaces in a supportive environment.