NDIS service

Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA)

Purpose-built housing solutions for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.

Book a consultationExplore SIL vacanciesCall 02 4623 0500
Other services
Accommodation/TenancyAssist - Life Stage, TransitionAssist - Travel & TransportCommunity Nursing CareDaily Tasks / Shared LivingSupported Independent LivingInnovative Community ParticipationDevelopment - Life SkillsGroup / Centre ActivitiesAssist Personal Activities - HighAssist Personal ActivitiesHousehold TasksParticipate CommunitySupport Coordination

Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA) refers to NDIS-funded housing designed for a small group of participants who have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA focuses on the design and features of the home, rather than the day-to-day supports provided inside it.

What SDA is

SDA is a type of specialist housing that supports independence, safety, and accessibility through purpose-built design. It is intended for participants whose disability-related needs cannot be met by standard housing, even with home modifications. SDA funding covers the cost of the physical dwelling, not personal care or daily supports.

Who SDA is for

SDA funding is available to a small proportion of NDIS participants who meet strict eligibility criteria set by the NDIA. Eligibility is based on evidence of extreme functional impairment or very high support needs and is determined through the NDIS planning and assessment process.

Included supports

Types of SDA dwellings

  • Apartments designed or modified to meet specialist accessibility needs.
  • Villas, duplexes, or townhouses with purpose-built design features.
  • Standalone houses or group homes built to SDA design standards.

Included supports

SDA design categories

  • Basic — Housing that meets minimum design requirements and supports the delivery of disability supports.
  • Improved Liveability — Housing designed to improve accessibility and usability for people with sensory, intellectual, or cognitive impairment.
  • Fully Accessible — Housing with a high level of physical access for participants with significant physical impairment.
  • Robust — Housing designed to be durable and resilient for participants with complex behaviours while reducing risks to residents and the community.
  • High Physical Support — Housing designed for participants with significant physical impairments and very high support needs, including advanced structural features.

SDA and SIL explained

Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL) are separate NDIS supports. SDA relates to the physical housing, while SIL relates to personal and daily living supports provided within the home. Some participants may receive funding for both, while others may receive only one.

How SDA support is explored

  1. 1Discuss housing needs, functional capacity, and long-term goals with your planning or support coordination team.
  2. 2Determine SDA eligibility through the NDIS planning and evidence process.
  3. 3Explore suitable SDA options that align with approved funding and individual needs.
“Appropriate housing plays a critical role in safety, independence, and quality of life for participants with high support needs.”
— Nobility Care Australia

Talk to us about SDA options

Contact our team to discuss Specialised Disability Accommodation and whether SDA may be relevant to your NDIS plan.

Talk to us about SDA optionsCall 02 4623 0500