What is SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)?
SDA is National Disability Insurance Scheme funded housing specifically designed for people with extreme functional impairment or high support needs, built to one of five design categories that match different levels of physical accessibility and support infrastructure.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is housing funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme for participants who have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. Rather than standard housing, SDA is purpose-built or substantially adapted to support people with significant physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities who require ongoing daily assistance.
The NDIS recognises five design categories that match different support requirements:
- Basic - Housing with accessibility features for people with mobility difficulties, such as level access and wider doorways.
- Improved liveability - Additional accessibility and safety modifications like adapted bathrooms, kitchens, and emergency response systems.
- Fully accessible - Full wheelchair access throughout, specialised bathroom and kitchen facilities, and integrated technology for independence.
- Robust - Heavily reinforced structures designed to withstand intensive use, including reinforced walls and specialist flooring for people with complex support needs.
- High physical support - Purpose-built environments with features like ceiling hoists, specialised bathrooms, and accessible medical spaces for people requiring round-the-clock physical assistance.
SDA funding is built into individual NDIS plans and covers the housing component separately from support services. Participants access SDA providers who manage the properties and coordinate with support workers and allied health professionals involved in the participant's care.