Specialised Disability Accommodation

Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a key component of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), designed to provide individuals with a disability access to purpose-built housing that meets their specific needs. SDA aims to offer accommodation solutions that promote independence, enhance quality of life, and ensure safety for people with significant disabilities. This accommodation is tailored to provide the necessary support, such as assistive technology, personal care, and other services that enhance day-to-day living.

NDIS Coverage for SDA

SDA is funded under the NDIS and is intended for individuals with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. The funding is allocated based on the individual’s specific needs, and it can cover the cost of both the accommodation and the support services required. The NDIS considers a person’s housing needs and goals, determining the level of funding based on the level of support required to help them achieve independence and participate fully in the community.

Types of Specialised Disability Accommodation

SDA comes in various forms, depending on the individual’s requirements and the level of support needed. Some of the most common types of SDA include:

• High Physical Support: Accommodation designed for individuals who require extensive physical assistance with mobility, personal care, and other daily activities.

• Improved Livability: Properties that are designed to improve the ability of individuals with sensory and/or cognitive disabilities to live independently with minimal support.

• Robust Support Needs: Accommodation suited for individuals who require a higher level of support due to behavioral challenges or significant health needs.

• Fully Accessible: These homes are designed for people who require full wheelchair access and need features such as wide doors, ramps, and custom modifications to ensure ease of movement within the space.

Funding Source and Category

SDA is funded under the NDIS housing category and typically requires separate funding from the Core Support budget. This funding is intended for individuals whose support needs are not able to be met by conventional accommodation options. The NDIS provides funding for SDA based on the individual’s disability and functional requirements. The goal is to ensure that people with disabilities have access to housing that promotes safety, independence, and community engagement.

Distinguishing SDA from Other Housing Options

It’s important to note that SDA is different from general housing or rental options. While the NDIS funds SDA to cater to specific disability-related needs, other types of housing arrangements such as independent living or public housing are not covered under SDA funding. SDA is focused on providing specialized environments where individuals can receive the level of care and support they require to thrive.

When SDA Funding is Not Available

There are certain situations where SDA funding is not applicable. These include:

• General accommodation needs not related to disability-specific requirements.
• Short-term housing needs (such as emergency housing) or housing that does not have a disability-specific purpose.
• Waiting for home modifications (these modifications may be covered by other NDIS supports but not under SDA funding).

If an individual’s needs are more related to temporary accommodation or housing that does not meet disability-specific requirements, they may need to explore other options with the help of their NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator.

How to Access SDA Through NDIS

Individuals may not automatically receive SDA funding in their NDIS plan. To access SDA, participants must have a functional assessment that demonstrates the need for specialized accommodation. This can be requested through their NDIS plan or during the planning process. If SDA funding is not included in the current plan, it can be requested by discussing the need with the NDIS Planner or Local Area Coordinator.

Contact Approach Care for Assistance with SDA

For those in Western Australia seeking assistance with SDA, Approach Care offers expert guidance and support. As a registered NDIS provider, we help individuals with disabilities access the appropriate SDA and other NDIS services to support their daily needs and improve their overall quality of life. Reach out to Approach Care to explore your options and receive personalized advice for securing the most suitable housing solution.

Let us assist you in navigating your NDIS plan and accessing the supports you need to live independently and with dignity.