Finding suitable living arrangements is critical for NDIS participants, especially those with high support needs. Learn more about how NDIS accommodation can help you live independently.
NDIS funding criteria
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is primary support network for adults with disability in Australia. Through an approved NDIS plan, NDIS participants can access the services and supports they require. They are also supported to achieve their individual goals, which might relate to community participation or finding and setting up suitable housing.
The NDIS does not cover rent or subsidise day to day costs like food or bills. To access NDIS housing, an assessment needs to be carried out. During this assessment, your housing options will be discussed and considered.
Types of NDIS housing include:
Specialist Disability Accommodation SDA
Supported Independent Living SIL
Medium term accommodation
Respite accommodation
Typically, only a small number of scheme participants, usually with complex disability, extreme functional impairment or very high support needs are eligible for SDA funding included for Specialist Disability Accommodation.
Specialist disability accommodation options
Funding for Specialist Disability Accommodation SDA provides a high degree of living care and support for people with extreme functional impairment. This is housing designed to be suitable for people who require specialist equipment. SDA homes must have accessible features, such as wide hallways and often have other equipment like hoists installed.
Supported independent living options
Supported Independent Living is another type of NDIS housing, this time for people who can live somewhat independently, but still require some assistance with certain daily tasks and activities.
SIL homes must also be build and designed to meet certain standards. Often several people live together in a share house arrangement. Living supports are shared and residents enjoy social interactions and friendship. Read more at our blog on the topic of SIL.
Accommodation options for older adults with disability
Older Australians can apply for support and care through My Aged Care. My Aged Care is a support system for people aged over 65 years. Once an NDIS participant reaches the age of 65, they may wish to seek accommodation options through My Aged Care. My Aged Care housing options for older individuals include residential aged care facilities, independent living units, serviced apartments, and retirement villages.
To transition from the NDIS to My Aged Care, you can start by contacting My Aged Care directly or visiting their website to understand the processes and eligibility criteria for accessing aged care services. You will also need to discuss your intentions with your current NDIS provider to ensure a smooth transfer of your housing support services.
Home modifications
If you are not able to access SDA or SIL funding for your living arrangements, another option is to arrange home modifications. Home modifications are changes carried out at your home, to make it more suitable housing for your needs. With home modifications, there is no need to move out. Your own home is adapted to make it easier for you to use the space and carry out daily life. Discover more about the support and home modifications offered by Nursed Care.
Help at home
Once you have found suitable accommodation, there are also a number of home and living options for support to ensure you are living comfortably and safely. These services will support you with daily tasks including:
personal care
dressing
preparing meals
taking medication
keeping the home environment tidy
Other support can be arranged to help you be active in the community, attend appointments and classes, or assist you with shopping. Keeping busy and connected to others is key to living independently and feeling well and happy in life.
Nursed Care for independent living
Nursed Care is a fully accredited NDIS service provider, supporting people with disability right around the Sydney area. We deliver quality services to eligible participants, and can also act as your NDIS support coordinator, ensuring the delivery of activities on your NDIS plan.
As both SIL providers and SDA providers, we also manage several specialised housing options for people with very high support needs. Nursed Care accommodation options can be found in highly desirable areas. Visit our website to see the current home and living support options around Sydney. Or, get in touch to learn more!
Features of Nursed Care SDA homes
Nursed Care are an accredited SDA provider. Our NDIS housing options are suitable for people with significant impairment or very high care needs, as they all feature:
Spacious bedrooms with their own private accessible ensuite
Wide doorways and hallways, with a width greater than 1000m (some over 1200mm)
Additional bedroom with ensuite for overnight staff
Alarmed Security System with CCTV protection
Fully furnished communal areas
Airconditioning and other easy to operate technologies
Related questions
There are approved Specialist Disability Accommodation SDA homes in all metropolitan areas. When trying to find suitable SDA housing options, you should consider the location in relation to access to your existing support networks and community. Finding an SDA home in an area you are familiar with can help you ensure continuity in home and living supports.
