SDA Explained: What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?

As a provider of specialised disability accommodation (SDA), some of the most common questions we are asked are what it is and why it is important.

‍At Good Housing, we are not one of the only end-to-end SDA providers but also informed through lived experience. With our experience in developing, building, operating and finding the right SDA home for our loved one, we're excited to share some information that will help you or someone you care for on their SDA journey.

‍SDA is a type of housing designed specifically for individuals living with disabilities. This type of housing is equipped with various modifications that empower independence and facilitate accessibility and safety for individuals with physical, intellectual, sensory or cognitive disabilities.

‍In Australia, four (4) disability design categories are used to inform the design and construction of buildings and living spaces for individuals with disabilities. These categories are:

‍

     * High Physical Support (HPS)

     * Robust Housing (RH)

     * Fully Accessible (FA)

     * Improved Liveability (IL)

‍

‍

‍One of the main benefits of SDA is that it allows individuals living with disability to live independently and participate in their community. With the right modifications, individuals can live full and active lives without needing constant care.

‍It is worth mentioning that under Australian law there are also legal requirements that SDA providers must meet. These requirements are put in place to ensure that individuals with disabilities can live in safe, accessible, and comfortable environments. The legal requirements for SDA housing in Australia include:

‍‍

* Building codes and accessibility standards (National Construction Code & Disability Standards 2010)

* Equal opportunity laws (Disability Discrimination Act 1992 & Fair Work Act 2009)

* Licensing and certification (National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Quality and Safeguards Commission)

* Health and safety regulations (fire safety regulations & building codes).

‍

‍At Good Housing, we provide SDA that is not only accessible but also modern, comfortable and personalised to the individuals taste. We believe everyone has the right to have a place that feels like home. And it is our mission to deliver 300 smart and healthy SDA homes within the next five years - this is how we're empowering extraordinary lives.

‍If you or someone you know is looking for SDA, we would love to help. Our Tenant Empowerment team are knowledgeable and passionate about the needs of individuals and the complexities of finding the perfect home.

‍‍Most importantly, we are passionate about making your journey a positive one. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today, and let's work together to empower extraordinary lives. Enquire now or contact us.