SDA and NDIS info
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- SDA and NDIS info
What is SDA?
- Improved Liveability – Designed for people with sensory, intellectual, or cognitive impairment.
- Fully Accessible – Wheelchair-friendly homes with enhanced accessibility features.
- Robust – Designed for participants requiring resilient construction and low-stimulation environments.
- High Physical Support – Homes with advanced accessibility features such as ceiling hoists, emergency backup power, and assistive technology.
How does SDA funding work ?
Which NDIS Housing Support Is Right for You?
SDA is often confused with Supported Independent Living (SIL), Short Term Accommodation (STA), Medium Term Accommodation (MTA), and Individualised Living Options (ILO). Each support serves a different purpose within the NDIS. Explore our detailed comparison to understand what each option covers, who it’s designed for, and when it may be the right choice.
Who Is Eligible for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
To be eligible for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), you must be an NDIS participant whose plan includes SDA funding. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) assesses eligibility based on whether you have an extreme functional impairment or very high support needs that require specialised housing.
SDA is generally suitable for participants who:
- Need significant physical support to live safely and independently.
- Have complex behavioural support needs.
- Require an accessible home with specialised design features.
- Cannot safely live in standard housing without major modifications or ongoing support.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the SDA eligibility criteria, our team can help you understand the assessment process and discuss suitable housing options with your support coordinator.
FAQs
What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is NDIS-funded housing designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA funding covers the specialised home itself, including accessible design and safety features. It does not pay for daily support services, which are funded separately through supports such as Supported Independent Living (SIL).
Who is eligible for SDA funding?
You may be eligible for SDA if you are an NDIS participant with an approved SDA budget in your plan. Eligibility is based on evidence that you have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs and require specialist housing to live safely and independently.
What is the difference between SDA and SIL?
SDA refers to the physical home, including accessible design features and specialist construction. SIL (Supported Independent Living) provides daily support services such as personal care, meal preparation, and household assistance. Many participants receive both supports, but they are funded separately through the NDIS.
Does SDA funding pay for support workers?
No. SDA funding only covers the specialist accommodation. Support workers, personal care, overnight assistance, and other daily supports are funded separately, often through SIL or other NDIS support categories.
What types of SDA homes are available?
The NDIS recognises four SDA design categories:
- Improved Liveability
- Fully Accessible
- Robust
- High Physical Support
Each category is designed to meet different functional needs, from improved accessibility to complex physical or behavioural support requirements.
Can I choose where I live in an SDA home?
Yes. NDIS participants have choice and control over where they live, subject to property availability and suitability. You can discuss your preferred location, living arrangements, and accessibility requirements with your SDA provider before moving in.
How do I apply for SDA funding?
To access SDA, you first need to be an eligible NDIS participant. The NDIA assesses supporting evidence from health professionals and considers whether specialist housing is a reasonable and necessary support. If approved, SDA funding is included in your NDIS plan.
Can I receive SDA and SIL together?
Yes. Many participants receive both SDA and SIL. SDA provides the specialist home, while SIL provides assistance with everyday activities such as personal care, cooking, cleaning, and developing independent living skills. The supports complement each other but are funded separately.
How long does it take to move into an SDA home?
The timeframe depends on your approved SDA funding, the type of accommodation you need, and property availability in your preferred location. Once funding is approved and a suitable home is available, the move-in process can often begin within a few weeks.
Can SDA Homes WA help me if I don't have SDA funding yet?
Yes. If you haven’t yet secured SDA funding, our team can help you understand the eligibility requirements, explain the assessment process, and work with your support coordinator or allied health professionals to explore suitable housing options.