Housing and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is housing designed for people with significant support needs. This guide explains who is eligible—including those with extreme functional impairment—and how SDA funding works.
What is SDA?
SDA is a type of NDIS funding that pays for the cost of the building itself—specialist housing that is designed or modified to meet the needs of people with significant disability. SDA does not pay for the support you receive inside the home; that is usually funded separately (e.g. through Supported Independent Living or other supports).
Eligibility: Extreme Functional Impairment
To be eligible for SDA, the NDIA must be satisfied that you have an “extreme functional impairment” and that SDA is reasonable and necessary. “Extreme functional impairment” means you have very high support needs that relate to your housing—for example, you need specialist housing design (e.g. wheelchair access, hoists, sensory considerations), or you need to live in a building that is part of a supported living arrangement so you can get the help you need.
What the NDIA considers
- Your support needs and how they relate to where you live
- Whether you need specialist design (e.g. robust, high physical support, improved liveability)
- Whether other housing options (e.g. mainstream housing with modifications) could meet your needs
- Recommendations from your treating professionals and any housing or SDA assessments
SDA Design Categories
SDA dwellings are built to one or more design categories. Each describes the type of building and features (e.g. accessibility, durability, communication). Your SDA budget in your plan will align with the category that fits your assessed needs.
- Improved liveability
- Fully accessible
- Robust
- High physical support
What You Need to Explore SDA
- Evidence of your housing-related support needs (reports from OT, doctors, support coordinators)
- An understanding of whether you meet the extreme functional impairment criteria
- Discussion with your planner or LAC about SDA at your planning meeting
- Support to search for registered SDA dwellings in your area if SDA is in your plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SDA the same as SIL?
No. SDA pays for the building. Supported Independent Living (SIL) pays for the in-home support (e.g. help with personal care, daily tasks). You can have SDA only, SIL only, or both, depending on your needs.
Do I have to live in a group home to get SDA?
No. SDA can be a standalone house, an apartment, or a shared dwelling. It depends on what is approved in your plan and what is available. You can live alone or with others, with the right supports in place.
What if I’m not sure I’m eligible for SDA?
Talk to your planner, LAC or support coordinator. They can explain the criteria and help you gather evidence. An occupational therapy housing assessment can also clarify your housing needs and whether SDA is appropriate.
Need personalised help?
The FWBS team can help you understand SDA and housing options. Get in touch for a friendly chat.
Contact FWBS