Am I Eligible for SDA?

Specialist Disability Accommodation
is available to people who need to live in an accessible home with design features to facilitate increased independence and also require high levels of person-to-person assistance.

SDA Eligibility and Assessment

Participants eligible for SDA have very high support needs or extreme functional impairment. The NDIS assesses eligibility based on the severity of the person’s functional impairment and their specific support requirements. A quality SDA provider will focus on the accessible features of the house, ensuring it is designed to accommodate the complex needs of those with significant disabilities, but also maintain its integrity as a person’s home to be lived in and enjoyed. SDA eligibility is determined by the NDIS, and participants must meet specific criteria through a Housing Assessment to confirm their eligibility. It will often take approximately 8 months for a person, after applying to the NDIS to receive an SDA decision.

SDA Design Standard and Requirements

The SDA Design Standard outlines minimum design requirements and allows providers to respond to participant needs and preferences. SDA properties are purpose-built with accessible features to support individuals to live more independent lifestyles with quality face-to-face support in their homes.  Additional features in an SDA property may include Onsite Overnight Assistance, second living rooms and fire sprinklers throughout the house. 

SDA Design Categories include Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support and Robust. Typically an SDA dwelling will have wider doorways, and larger internal spaces, a range of assistive technology features, non-slip and flat floor surfaces SDA providers must meet specific design requirements to ensure their properties  are suitable for participants and are successfully enrolled as an SDA dwelling.

SDA Funding and Pricing Arrangements

SDA funding is specifically designed to cover the increased cost associated with building an accessible house, including the land it is on. The amount of SDA funding included in an NDIS plan depends on various factors, including the building type, location, number of occupants, and the SDA design category. SDA funding is paid directly to SDA providers from a participant’s NDIS plan. , Participants will also be asked to contribute with a reasonable rent contribution which will include 25% of their Disability Support Pension and 100% of their Commonwealth Rental Assistance as part of their Service and Tenancy Agreement. The participant will have other out-of-pocket expenses, including day-to-day living expenses such as utilities and groceries. SDA pricing arrangements are outlined in the NDIS Pricing Arrangements for Specialist Disability Accommodation.

Finding SDA Providers in Adelaide

SDA providers are organisations or entities that own, manage, or develop SDA properties and must be registered NDIS providers. Participants can search for SDA providers in Adelaide through the NDIA finder tool, relevant expo events and websites such as Housing Hub and GoNest. SDA providers often collaborate with SIL providers to ensure they are able to deliver sustainable and safe support within the home and ensure they are aligned with their values. They will also connect closely with the participant and their chosen support network to ensure they are being delivered the most appropriate housing solution and receive comprehensive support to transition smoothly into their new home.

Accessing SDA Accommodation in Adelaide

To access SDA accommodation, participants must be eligible for SDA and have SDA funding included in their NDIS plan. SDA providers manage their SDA-enrolled properties across metropolitan Adelaide and regional South Australia. Participants can choose from various SDA housing options, including Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support or Robust categories. SDA may not be the most appropriate housing for all NDIS participants. Most SDA providers will be able to support you with this understanding and point you in the right direction to determine your eligibility and receive the support to explore this as an option.

SDA Vacancy Management and Allocation

SDA providers manage the vacancies within their properties.  The NDIA has online systems for enrolling dwellings and notifying dwelling vacancies. Adenium Living are committed to supporting individuals to be able to live with like-minded or compatible individuals and recognises this is a very important part of the process. Adenium Living will work closely with the participants and the SIL provider to ensure they are a suitable and compatible match ensuring the participants have full choice and control over their home environment.  

SDA Support and Resources

An SDA Provider will be able to offer resources and support to the participants so they can navigate their local community and mainstream services including local medical services, public transport options, community centres and local government facilities..  Participants are free to choose their own provider for support with daily tasks, community access and personal care.   The NDIS offers resources and support for participants, including the SDA Finder and the NDIS website. Participants can also access support from disability advocacy groups and organisations.

Design Categories

There are four categories of SDA designed to best support the person living there to be as independent as possible – Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support and Robust.

Next Steps

Navigating SDA eligibility in Adelaide requires understanding the NDIS and SDA design standards and requirements. Participants must meet specific eligibility criteria and have SDA funding included in their NDIS plan. SDA providers offer customised housing solutions and support services to participants. Participants can access SDA accommodation in Adelaide by searching for SDA vacancies and contacting SDA providers directly.

Frequently Asked Question

Do I need to be a current NDIS participant to apply for SDA funding?

If yes, you need to be an eligible NDIS participant to apply for SDA funding.  You must have SDA funding approved by the NDIS to be eligible for an SDA house.

What types of SDA design categories are available?

There are four main SDA design categories: Improved Livability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support, and Robust. Each category has specific design features tailored to meet the needs of individuals with varying levels of support requirements.

How can I find SDA providers in Adelaide?

You can search for SDA providers in Adelaide through the NDIS website or use the SDA Finder tool. Websites such as Housing Hub and GoNest will advertise vacancies and/or search SDA Providers Adelaide online. 

What costs are associated with living in an SDA property?

SDA funding covers the cost of accessible housing, including land, while participants typically pay a reasonable rent contribution along with other living expenses like utilities. The exact amount of SDA funding depends on factors such as the building type and location.

Can I choose my housemates in an SDA property?

Yes, you have the right to choose who you live within an SDA property. This includes selecting your housemates or living alone if preferred. The NDIS will consider existing relationships and support needs when making housing arrangements.

 

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