NDIS Participant Guide to SDA Application and House Selection

Your Complete Guide to SDA: From Application to Moving In

As a NDIS participant, navigating the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) application process and choosing the right home can seem daunting. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps and explain how MediStays can support you throughout your journey. 

Step Requirements
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
  • Ensure you have an approved NDIS plan
  • Verify that you require specialist housing due to extreme functional impairment or very high support needs
2. Gather Supporting Documentation
  • Collect reports from your occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and other relevant health professionals
  • These reports should detail your specific housing needs and how SDA will benefit you
3. Complete the SDA Housing Assessment
  • Work with your support coordinator or NDIS planner to complete this assessment
  • This will help determine the type of SDA you need (e.g., High Physical Support, Fully Accessible)
4. Submit Your Application
  • Your support coordinator or NDIS planner will submit your SDA application to the NDIA
  • Include all supporting documentation and the completed housing assessment
5. Await NDIA Decision
  • The NDIA will review your application and make a decision
  • This process can take several weeks to months

Choosing the Right SDA Home

Once you have SDA funding approved, the next step is finding the right home. Here’s how to approach this process:
Step Key Considerations
1. Understand Your SDA Category
  • Your approved SDA funding will specify a design category (e.g., High Physical Support, Fully Accessible)
  • Familiarise yourself with what features are included in your category
2. Define Your Preferences
  • Consider location, proximity to family/supports, and community access
  • Think about specific features you need (e.g., ceiling hoists, assistive technology)
  • Decide if you prefer private or shared living spaces
3. Research Available Properties
  • Use SDA property listings to find homes that match your category and preferences
  • MediStays can assist you in this process
4. Inspect Properties
  • Arrange tours of properties you’re interested in
  • Bring your occupational therapist or support worker to help assess suitability
5. Consider Compatibility
  • If looking at shared accommodation, consider compatibility with potential housemates
  • Think about how the property will meet your long-term needs

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Your Path to Finding SDA Housing

At MediStays, we’re dedicated to making your SDA journey as smooth as possible. Choose your preferred way to find your ideal SDA property:

Browse SDA Properties

  • Explore our curated list of Specialist Disability Accommodations
  • Use filters for:
    • Location preferences
    • SDA design category
    • Number of bedrooms
    • Private or Shared living spaces
    • Specific features
    • Proximity to amenities

Enquire About Properties

  • Select properties you’re interested in by requesting the property
  • We’ll call you back to discuss next steps

Next Steps

Property Tours

  • We’ll coordinate tours of the shortlisted properties
  • Help you assess what property is best for your needs

Secure Your Property

  • Guide you through the application process
  • Assist with paperwork and liaise with SDA providers
  • Help coordinate the move-in process

Call Us for Support

  • Reach out to our team of Care Navigators
  • We’ll discuss your specific requirements and preferences

 

Property Shortlisting

  • We’ll shortlist 3 properties that best fit your criteria
  • Detailed information provided about each option

Next Steps

Property Tours

  • We’ll coordinate tours of the shortlisted properties
  • Help you assess what property is best for your needs

Secure Your Property

  • Guide you through the application process
  • Assist with paperwork and liaise with SDA providers
  • Help coordinate the move-in process

How to Choose the Best SDA for You

Selecting Your Ideal SDA: Key Considerations
Location Accessibility Support Needs
  • Proximity to family and friends
  • Access to healthcare facilities for ongoing care
  • Near community services and activities
  • Public transport availability
  • Familiarity with the area
  • Wheelchair accessibility throughout the property
  • Specific amenities you need (e.g., roll-in showers, ceiling hoists)
  • Easy access to outdoor areas
  • Appropriate door widths and turning spaces
  • Height-adjustable features in kitchen and bathroom
  • Level of support required (e.g., 24/7, daily, or periodic)
  • Specific allied health or medical support needs
  • Availability of on-site or nearby support workers
  • Opportunities for skill development aligned with your goals
  • Flexibility to adjust support as your needs change

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.   

Our Care Navigators combine in-depth knowledge of NDIS requirements with a thorough understanding of accessible accommodation needs. They work tirelessly to ensure that every booking meets the unique needs of each participant while simplifying the process for you.   

How to Contact Our Care Navigators:   

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm AEST  

Allied Health Referrer Hub

Learn how we can find SDA for your patient
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FAQ SDA

Answering your frequently asked questions on Specialist Disability Accommodation
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Support Coordinator Hub

How we can support you to find an SDA
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contact@medistays.com.au
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