Specialist Disability Accommodation, clearly explained.
Learn what SDA is, how the design categories differ, how SDA and SIL work together, and what to consider when exploring housing options.
What specialist disability accommodation (SDA) is
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a range of housing for eligible NDIS participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. It may be suitable when other home and living supports do not meet a person's disability-related housing needs.
SDA is the housing itself. Properties may include features such as wider doorways, wheelchair-accessible kitchens, ceiling hoists, home automation, communication technology or other specialist design features.
SDA relates to the home. Supported Independent Living (SIL) relates to the supports a person receives. Participants retain choice and control over their support arrangements.
There are four SDA design categories
Housing with better physical access and features intended to support people with sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairments.
Housing with a high level of physical access for people with significant physical challenges, including people who use wheelchairs at home.
Strong and durable housing designed to support safety and reduce damage and maintenance where complex behaviours may be present.
Housing with a high level of physical access and features that may include ceiling hoists, backup power, home automation and communication technology.
Try our SDA Eligibility Calculator
This short guide is not an eligibility decision and does not replace advice from the NDIA or your professional supports. It simply helps point you in the right direction.
How Heartvale Living can help
We can talk with participants, families, guardians, Support Coordinators, SIL providers, OTs and other professionals about our managed homes, current vacancy status, household matching and the information needed to progress a genuine enquiry.