Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Disability Services
St Jude’s is a registered NDIS provider of specialist disability accommodation in Western Australia and Queensland. Our purpose-built homes are designed for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs, giving you the accessibility, safety, and independence that mainstream housing simply can’t provide.
Purpose-Built Housing Designed Around You
Secure, accessible homes for NDIS participants with the highest support needsSpecialist disability accommodation is NDIS-funded housing that’s been purpose-built or significantly modified to include specialist design features. Unlike standard housing, SDA properties are built with accessibility and safety at their core. That includes full wheelchair access, ceiling hoists, reinforced construction, and assistive technology, all matched to the specific needs of each resident.
To be eligible, you’ll need an NDIS plan with SDA funding specifically approved. The NDIA assesses eligibility based on two criteria: extreme functional impairment that requires specialist housing features for safety and independence, or very high support needs requiring substantial person-to-person support throughout the day. Around 6% of NDIS participants currently have SDA in their plan. If you’re not sure whether you or your client may qualify, our team can help you understand the requirements and connect you with the right assessments.
One of the most common points of confusion is the difference between SDA and Supported Independent Living (SIL). SDA funds the building itself — the physical property and its specialist design features. SIL funds the daily support you receive inside the home, such as personal care, meal preparation, and overnight assistance. They’re separate funding streams with separate eligibility criteria, and many participants receive both.
SDA properties are built to one of four design categories: Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, and High Physical Support. Each addresses different types of disability and support needs. You can read more about how each category works and who they’re designed for in our detailed guide.
St Jude’s operates SDA properties across Perth’s southern corridor, including Orelia, Kwinana, and Rockingham, as well as in Brisbane. With over 40 years of experience in disability and aged care, we deliver specialist disability accommodation as part of our broader disability services, including support coordination, allied health, and in-home support. That means your housing and your care can work together from day one.
Getting started with SDA through St Jude’s is straightforward:
- Check your eligibility: You’ll need an NDIS plan with SDA funding approved, or evidence to support an SDA request at your next plan review.
- Speak to your planner or support coordinator: They can help you gather the right evidence and submit a housing request to the NDIA.
- Contact St Jude’s: Our team can discuss available properties, walk you through what to expect, and help match you with the right home.
Whether you’re a support coordinator looking for SDA vacancy information, a family member exploring housing options for a loved one, or a participant planning your next step, we’re here to help.
Explore our SDA homes in Western Australia or Queensland, or get in touch to discuss availability and eligibility.
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Frequently asked questions
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is NDIS-funded housing that includes specialist design features for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA covers the physical property, not the support services inside it. Daily support, like personal care and meal preparation, is funded separately through arrangements like Supported Independent Living (SIL).
You need to be an NDIS participant with either extreme functional impairment that requires specialist housing features, or very high support needs requiring substantial person-to-person support for a significant part of the day. The NDIA assesses eligibility based on written evidence, including a Functional Capacity Assessment typically completed by an Occupational Therapist. Around 6% of NDIS participants currently receive SDA funding.
SDA properties are built to one of four categories: Improved Liveability (for sensory, intellectual, or cognitive impairments), Fully Accessible (for significant physical impairments), Robust (for complex behaviours that may pose safety risks), and High Physical Support (for participants with the highest physical support needs, often requiring assistive technology like ceiling hoists). Each category has specific design standards set by the NDIS.
Yes. Under the NDIS, you have the right to choose your accommodation provider. You’re not required to use the same provider for housing and support services, though having them work together can reduce complexity and improve continuity of care.
Contact our team directly. If you’re a support coordinator, we can share vacancy updates and referral information. If you’re a participant or family member, we’ll help you understand whether SDA may be right for your situation and walk you through the next steps. Call us in WA on (08) 9279 4343, or in QLD on (07) 2800 6050.
SDA funding covers the cost of the specialist dwelling and its design features, not everyday living expenses. Residents pay a Reasonable Rent Contribution and are responsible for groceries, utilities, internet, and personal items. These are considered ordinary living costs that apply to all Australians, regardless of disability.
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If you or a loved one needs support, contact our friendly team today to find out how we can help you.