NDIA allows more flexible SDA living arrangements

two man laughing at each other

In June, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert, announced more flexibility and increased choice for participants to live with their families, friends and partners. 

Changes to Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) rules mean couples will be able to share a bedroom where they choose to do so, and children will be able to share a room with their parent or siblings. 
 

The NDIA is implementing recommendations by the Disability Reform Council that once fully introduced will support the growth of SDA for participants and providers by: 

  • Introducing new rules which will allow more choice in living arrangements 
  • Making SDA Rules and eligibility requirements easier to understand 
  • Consulting participants and providers to find innovative SDA solutions 
  • Supporting the certification and training processes for the SDA Design Standard 

SDA Rule changes and updated SDA resources will help remove barriers for participants and their families seeking suitable SDA configurations and reduce disincentives in the way of investment in such dwellings. 

Information and resources will be available from 30 June 2020. 

Young people with disability deserve options outside aged care. 

Did you know that nearly 6,000 Australians under 65 live in residential aged care facilities across the country? 

In most cases, these young Australians didn’t choose to live in residential aged care. Still, they found there were few other options after acquiring a disability in an accident or as a result of illness. 

These young residents were unable to find accessible housing in their community with the specialised equipment, modifications or support services to cater to their complex needs. 

Nursing homes aren’t designed for young people. 

Residential aged care and nursing homes are primarily designed for older people who can no longer live at home independently most don’t move into these facilities until their 80s.  

Geared towards the needs of ageing people, they’re not designed to meet the contrasting needs and aspirations of younger people, especially around socialising and being involved in the community. 

While customising their own home is an option, it’s often not affordable or practical to retrofit it to meet their needs, and it can be hard to find suitable housing in their area. 

Young people in aged care feel isolated. 

Many young people living in nursing homes enjoyed active social lives before entering care. Yet half of them say they get a visit from a friend less than once per year – chalk and cheese from the social connectedness we associate with younger adults. 

Unsurprisingly, studies show younger aged care residents with a disability and complex care needs have high rates of mental illness, such as anxiety and depression. 

Building homes that change lives 

Residential aged care services are vital, and many residents are pleased living there, but it shouldn’t be the only option for younger people living with a disability. 

We believe people should have a wide choice of housing options designed for their needs; homes that let them maintain their relationships with their friends and family, and be part of the community. 

ActiveSDA’s model brings accessible and affordable housing and supports together with assistive technology to give people a choice over how they live their lives.  

Our custom homes, units, apartments and shared living options are designed in line with the SDA Design Standard and NDIS Practice Standards.  

Our experienced multi-disciplinary team understands how the right housing solutions can empower you to live a more independent life and are they to make the transition to SDA housing as seamless as possible. 

This innovative approach means tenants can maximise their independence while still having access to support when they need it. 

For more about how ActiveSDA is helping young people with disability live a more independent lifestyle read of Steps to SDA sector or view of list of vacancies.