NDIS ↘ Specialist Disability Accommodation
About the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding and supports to eligible Australians living with disability. Participants receive an individual plan based on their disability-related needs, circumstances and goals, with supports intended to increase independence, choice and participation in everyday life. Home and living supports may include assistance within the home, home modifications and, where eligibility requirements are met, specialist housing.
SDA Design Categories
↘ Improved Liveability
↘ Fully Accessible
↘ Robust
↘ High Physical Support
Improved Liveability is designed for participants who benefit from improved physical access together with enhanced consideration of sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairment.
The design places particular emphasis on clear sightlines, ease of movement, visual contrast and the arrangement of spaces so they are easier to understand and navigate. The intent is to create a home that supports greater independence while reducing environmental barriers that may affect how a participant experiences and uses the dwelling.
Fully Accessible housing is designed for participants with significant physical impairment who require a high level of physical accessibility throughout the home.
The design provides accessible circulation, entrances, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and living areas, with particular consideration given to wheelchair use and transfers. Fixtures, fittings and spatial planning are designed so the dwelling can be used as independently and safely as possible by the participant.
Robust housing is designed for participants who require a more resilient environment, including where complex behaviours may create an increased risk of injury, damage or disruption within the home.
The design incorporates durable and resilient materials, fixtures and fittings while also considering safety, privacy, acoustics and areas of retreat for participants, support workers and other residents. Importantly, these features are intended to be integrated discreetly so the dwelling retains the character and feeling of a home rather than an institutional environment.
High Physical Support housing is designed for participants with significant physical impairment who require a very high level of physical accessibility and support within the home.
In addition to extensive accessible design requirements, these dwellings incorporate provisions that can support assistive technology and higher levels of care, including features such as ceiling hoist capability, automated doors, communication systems and emergency or backup power provisions where required. The planning of the home also considers the safe and effective delivery of support while maintaining the participant's independence and privacy.
