What is Specialist Disability Accommodation?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is funded by the NDIS for participants who require their physical home environment to cater to their needs related to their disability.
How do I access funding for SDA?
To be approved for SDA, you need to demonstrate to the NDIA that you have a significant functional impairment or have very high support needs.
Depending on the level of impairment caused by your Spinal Cord Injury, you may meet one or both of these criteria.
The eligibility criteria for SDA are outlined in the SDA Operational Guidelines.
How do I apply for SDA?
To apply for SDA, you need to submit a Home and Living Request.
This is completed by submitting a Change in Situation Form to the NDIS.
The NDIS have also prepared a Home and Living Supporting Evidence Form that you can complete so the NDIS have the information they require.
What other evidence is required to apply for NDIS?
You will also have the best chance of success applying for SDA by undertaking a Functional Capacity Assessment completed by an Occupational Therapist.
The Function Capacity Assessment Report for SDA should include additional recommendations that specifies your requirements for SDA related to your disability, and other considerations for SDA regarding the design type, building type, location etc.
Find an OT for an SDA Assessment
Benefits of SDA for Spinal Cord Injury
You can greatly benefit from SDA if you have a Spinal Cord Injury, as a property can include accessible and adaptive features to accommodate your needs. Examples include:
- Level entry via a step free pathway is available to access the home, with all internal spaces being level throughout the home.
- Wider doorways at entrances and between rooms to accommodate larger assistive technology, such as wheelchairs, commodes and hoists.
- Meals can be prepared using a height adjustable bench top and side-opening oven.
- A level entry shower and height adjustable vanity with wheelchair access promotes independence in self-care routines.
- The bedroom and bathroom has space to operate a mobile hoist, and in some properties, a ceiling hoist can be installed.
- Environmental control units can allow you to operate doors, blinds, lights and other features on the home electronically.
These are just some examples on how SDA can help you live more independently.
SDA Design - What is this?
The SDA Design Standards include detailed information around what is included in each of the four SDA design types, which include:
For a property to be registered as being SDA, the features of the home must align with one of the four design types, as outlined by the NDIS.
Each design type includes accessible features to meet specific needs related to your disability.
How do I receive support in SDA?
Support can be provided in a variety of formats for participants residing in SDA settings. Your model of care is developed based on how you wish to receive your NDIS support services.
You can receive SIL while living in SDA, or you can receive drop in support from your Core Support budget.
See the following resource below to navigate SIL:
- Spinal Cord Injury - How to Get Funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- Spinal Cord Injury and Supported Independent Living (SIL) - Living Alone or With Others?
Alternatively, the accessible features of the SDA property could negate the need for any support workers, achieving total independence.
How do I find SDA providers?
The MyCareSpace Connections Team can assist you with finding the right SDA provider for you with vacancies.
Connect with our team to find out more.
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