Specialist Disability Accommodation FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

Welcome to our FAQ on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

General SDA Questions

SDA refers to housing that has been specially designed or modified to suit the needs of people who have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA dwellings have accessible features to help residents live more independently and allow other supports to be delivered better or more safely.

SDA is typically for NDIS participants with functional impairment or very high support needs who meet specific criteria set by the NDIA.

SDA goes beyond basic accessibility features. It’s built to meet the specific needs of people with significant disabilities and includes advanced features like ceiling hoists, assistive technology, and 24/7 support availability.

The main SDA design categories are:

Improved Liveability
Fully Accessible
Robust
High Physical Support Each category caters to different levels and types of needs.

Yes, you can choose from available SDA properties that match your approved design category and building type and fall within your funding budget.

SDA Application Process

To apply for SDA funding, you need to have an approved NDIS plan and submit an SDA application with supporting evidence to the NDIA.

Visit the NDIS website to learn about the funding application.

You’ll typically need:

Reports from health professionals (such as occupational therapists)
An SDA housing assessment
Evidence of your support needs and how SDA would benefit you

If you were living in specialist disability accommodation when you became a participant, you’ll still be eligible. The NDIA will work with you to check what kind of specialist disability accommodation they can fund if you want to move to a different home.

Finding and Moving into SDA

Yes, there are shared living options in SDA. The suitability depends on your preferences and approved support needs and funding level. You may also share your bedroom/private space with another person including your partner if you choose to.

You can change SDA properties, but you’ll need to ensure the new property matches your approved SDA design category as well as your funding budget. You will also be required to notify the NDIA of the change.

Yes, SDA residents typically pay rent, but it’s capped at 25% of the basic rate of the Disability Support Pension plus any Commonwealth Rent Assistance you receive. You will also be required to pay other day to day living costs such as electricity, gas and other utilities.

MediStays and SDA

MediStays offers personalised assistance in finding suitable SDA properties via our network of provider partners. We are able to arrange inspections and guide you through the application process.

Medium Term Accommodation of up to 90 days is generally available for NDIS participants who are awaiting SDA. This must be a stated support within your plan. MediStays can also assist with suitable MTA whilst waiting for your SDA approval or for a suitable property to become available.

You can start by browsing our website or calling our team of Care Navigators who will guide you through the process based on your individual needs and preferences.

If you have any other questions about SDA or our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced Care Navigators is here to help you every step of the way in your journey to finding the right SDA home.

Our Care Navigators: Your Dedicated Support Team

At the heart of our service are our experienced Care Navigators. These skilled professionals are your primary point of contact and support throughout the entire booking process and beyond.

What Care Navigators Do: