Frequently Asked Questions

  • The SDA Design Standard outlines the specific criteria for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) built under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

    Designed to support independent living, these homes must cater to the individual and often complex needs of NDIS participants, including the delivery of high-level care.

    The SDA Design Standard has 4 design categories as set out in the SDA Rules (2020):

    ·         Improved Liveability

    ·         Fully Accessible

    ·         High Physical Support

    ·         Robust

    This standard became mandatory on July 1, 2021, replacing the former Livable Housing Design Guidelines for SDA.

  • The SDA Design Standard has 4 design categories as set out in the SDA Rules (2020):

    ·         Improved Liveability

    Designed for people with sensory, intellectual, or cognitive impairments. These homes feature enhanced wayfinding, luminance contrast, and accessible fixtures to support safer and more independent living.

    ·         Fully Accessible 

    Suitable for people with significant physical impairments. Dwellings include step-free entry, wider doorways, and accessible bathrooms and kitchens, allowing easy movement throughout the home using mobility aids.

    ·         High Physical Support

    Intended for individuals who require very high levels of support. These homes include all features of Fully Accessible housing plus structural provisions for ceiling hoists, emergency power backup, and assistive technology.

    ·         Robust

    Built for people with complex behaviours or sensory sensitivities. These homes are designed with durable materials, additional soundproofing, and spaces that reduce stress, providing a safe and resilient environment.

  • The building types must comply with SDA design standards to ensure accessibility, safety, and support.

    The main acceptable building types under SDA include:

    ·       Group Homes:
    Shared accommodation designed for small groups of people with disabilities, offering support while promoting social inclusion.

    ·       Townhouses and Villas:
    Stand-alone or semi-detached houses designed with SDA features, typically for one or two residents.

    ·       Purpose-Built SDA Properties:
    Buildings constructed or renovated specifically to meet SDA design standards, which might include features like wider doorways, automated systems, sensory design elements, and more.

    ·       Multi-Unit Complexes:
    Larger buildings with multiple SDA units, which may include shared common areas, designed to provide tailored support.

    Independent Living Units (ILUs):
    Self-contained units that allow for independent living with disability-specific features, such as wheelchair access and adapted bathrooms.

    So, you have a wide range of options for building this type of accommodation, as long as you comply with the relevant criteria outlined in the SDA Design Standard.

  • Step-by-Step: SDA Certification Process

    Overview of the Two Stages

    Stage 1: Design Stage Certification

    Purpose: Confirms that the design complies with the SDA Design Standard before construction

    Outcome: Provisional Certification

    Stage 2: Final As-Built Certification

    Purpose:‍ ‍Confirms that the completed dwelling matches the certified design.

    Outcome: Final Certification (required for enrolment)

  • To be eligible for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), a person must meet all of the following criteria:

    1. Be an NDIS Participant

      • SDA is only available to individuals who have an active plan with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

    2. Have Very High Support Needs or Extreme Functional Impairment

      • This applies to individuals who:

        • Cannot live safely or independently in mainstream housing.

        • Require ongoing support or use of assistive technologies.

        • Need on-site support staff or housing specifically designed to meet high-level physical, cognitive, or behavioural support needs.

    3. Have SDA Funding Approved in Their NDIS Plan

      • Not all NDIS participants automatically receive SDA funding.

      • Funding must be explicitly included in the plan following an assessment by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

    4. Submit a Functional Assessment or Housing Evidence Form

      • Supporting documentation is required to justify the need for SDA.

      • This is typically completed by qualified allied health professionals (e.g. occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists).