SDA Housing Selection Guide
Complete guide to choosing the right SDA housing for your needs. Learn about selection criteria, housing types, questions to ask providers, and how to make the best choice for your independence and quality of life.
Choosing the Right SDA Housing
Selecting SDA housing is one of the most important decisions in your NDIS journey. The right choice supports your independence, community connections, and quality of life for years to come.
Take Your Time to Choose Well
Don't rush into the first available option. SDA housing is typically a long-term arrangement, so it's worth investing time to find housing that truly meets your needs and supports your goals. Visit multiple options, ask lots of questions, and trust your instincts about what feels right.
6 Key Housing Selection Criteria
Evaluate potential SDA housing using these comprehensive criteria to ensure the best match for your needs.
Ensure the housing matches your approved SDA design category and specific needs.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• Does this property meet all my approved design category requirements?
• Are all the accessibility features I need present and functional?
• Can the property accommodate my assistive technology?
• Will this housing support my independence goals?
Consider proximity to transport, services, family, and community connections.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• Is there accessible public transport nearby?
• How close are my doctors and therapy services?
• Can family and friends easily visit?
• What community activities are available in the area?
If sharing, ensure compatibility with other residents in terms of lifestyle and support needs.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• Are we compatible in terms of lifestyle and interests?
• How will our support schedules work together?
• What are the house rules and expectations?
• How are conflicts resolved between residents?
Consider how well the housing works with your chosen SIL or other support providers.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• Can my current support providers work at this location?
• What on-site support is available if needed?
• How are emergencies handled?
• Are there restrictions on support provider choice?
Research the SDA provider's reputation, maintenance standards, and participant satisfaction.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• What is the provider's reputation in the community?
• How quickly do they respond to maintenance requests?
• Can I speak with current or former residents?
• What are their policies for rent increases?
Consider how the housing will meet your needs as they change over time.
Key Considerations:
Questions to Ask:
• Can this housing adapt if my needs change?
• What are the lease terms and security of tenure?
• What happens if I need to move?
• Are there options for modifications if needed?
Types of SDA Housing Available
Compare different SDA housing types to understand which arrangement might work best for your lifestyle and needs.
Private apartments in purpose-built accessible buildings
Advantages
• Complete privacy and independence
• No need to coordinate with housemates
• Full control over living environment
• Easier to have visitors
Considerations
• Higher individual cost
• May be more isolated
• Limited social opportunities within housing
• Full responsibility for household management
Best suited for: People who value privacy and independence above shared living benefits
Important to consider:
2-3 bedroom units shared with 1-2 other residents
Advantages
• Shared costs reduce individual contribution
• Built-in social interaction and companionship
• Shared household responsibilities
• Enhanced safety through mutual support
Considerations
• Need for compatible housemates
• Shared spaces and potential conflicts
• Coordinating schedules and visitors
• Less privacy and independence
Best suited for: People who enjoy companionship and benefit from shared living arrangements
Important to consider:
Larger houses with 3-5 residents and shared common areas
Advantages
• Strong community feel and support network
• Lower individual costs
• Organized activities and social opportunities
• On-site support coordination
Considerations
• Less privacy and personal space
• More complex household dynamics
• Need to fit into established routines
• Potential for noise and disruption
Best suited for: People who thrive in community settings with higher support needs
Important to consider:
High physical support housing with clinical features
Advantages
• Specialized clinical and technical features
• 24/7 support availability
• Emergency backup systems
• Equipment and technology integration
Considerations
• Higher costs and complexity
• More institutional feel
• Limited location options
• Complex support coordination
Best suited for: People with very high physical support needs requiring clinical care
Important to consider:
What to Check When Viewing SDA Properties
Use this comprehensive checklist to evaluate properties systematically and ensure nothing important is missed.
Essential Questions to Ask SDA Providers
Get the information you need to make an informed decision by asking these important questions.
Final Steps in Your SDA Journey
Now that you know how to choose housing, learn about your rights and explore available properties.
Ready to Find Your Perfect SDA Housing?
Choosing the right SDA housing is a significant decision. Our experienced team can help you evaluate options, ask the right questions, and find housing that truly supports your independence and goals.
