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Getting SDA funding in your NDIS plan requires a Home and Living request to the NDIA. This process can feel complex, but with the right preparation and support, it's absolutely manageable. Here's our step-by-step guide to help you through it. What is a Home and Living Request? A Home and Living request is the formal process by which NDIS participants ask the NDIA to include SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) funding in their plan. It replaces the previous 'SDA applicat

For brothers Marcus and James, the idea of living apart was never an option. Growing up together, they'd always been each other's greatest support. But as adults with different disability support needs, finding accommodation that worked for both of them seemed impossible — until they discovered SDA. Two Brothers, Two Sets of Needs Marcus, 28, has a spinal cord injury from a car accident at age 19. He uses a manual wheelchair and has high physical support needs, particularly f

Artificial intelligence is no longer the stuff of science fiction. In 2026, AI-powered systems are quietly reshaping the way SDA homes function — making them smarter, safer, and more responsive to the people who live in them. At dwellSDA, we're at the forefront of integrating these technologies into accessible housing. Beyond Smart Homes: Truly Adaptive Living Most people are familiar with smart home technology — voice-controlled lights, automated blinds, and programmable the

If you're applying for Specialist Disability Accommodation funding through the NDIS, one of the most important professionals on your team is your occupational therapist (OT). Their assessment and recommendations carry significant weight in the NDIA's decision-making process. Why OTs Are Essential to SDA Applications Occupational therapists are uniquely qualified to assess how a person's disability affects their ability to perform daily activities and how their physical envir

Choosing where to live is one of the most personal and impactful decisions any person can make. For NDIS participants seeking Specialist Disability Accommodation, location is about more than just an address — it's about access to the services, community, and lifestyle that support independence and wellbeing. Why Location Matters in SDA Your SDA home is more than a building — it's the foundation of your daily life. The right location can mean the difference between thriving in

Sustainability is no longer optional in modern construction — it's an expectation. For SDA housing, sustainable design isn't just about reducing environmental impact; it's about creating homes that are healthier, more comfortable, and more affordable to run for participants who may already face financial pressures. Why Sustainability Matters in SDA NDIS participants living in SDA homes often have higher-than-average energy needs. Medical equipment, assistive technology, heati

When exploring Specialist Disability Accommodation, most people focus on the four design categories — Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, and High Physical Support. But there's another important dimension to consider: the building type. What Are SDA Building Types? SDA building types describe the physical structure and living arrangement of the dwelling. The NDIA recognises several building types, each with different SDA pricing and suitability for different parti

Sarah is a 34-year-old NDIS participant living in Bendigo, regional Victoria. She has cerebral palsy and uses a powered wheelchair. For years, she lived in a group home that didn't fully meet her needs — the doorways were narrow, the bathroom wasn't fully accessible, and she relied on staff for tasks she felt she could do independently with the right home design. The Turning Point When Sarah's support coordinator, Michelle, suggested exploring SDA as part of her NDIS plan rev

Smart home technology has moved beyond luxury gadgetry. In the context of Specialist Disability Accommodation, it's becoming an essential tool for maximising independence, safety, and quality of life for NDIS participants. What is Smart Home Technology in SDA? In SDA housing, smart home technology refers to integrated electronic systems that allow residents to control their living environment with minimal physical effort. These systems are particularly important in High Physi

If you're exploring Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) as part of your NDIS plan, one of the first things you'll encounter is the concept of SDA design categories. There are four categories, each designed to support different types of disabilities and functional needs. Understanding these categories is essential for finding the right home. The Four SDA Design Categories The SDA Design Standard defines four design categories, each with increasing levels of physical acce

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has published significant updates to the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits for the 2025–26 financial year. These changes have implications for both SDA participants and registered providers across Australia. What's Changed in the 2025-26 SDA Pricing The most notable update is the increase to SDA price limits across several design categories. The NDIA has recognised the rising constru

The demand for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in Australia far exceeds supply. With an estimated 28,000 NDIS participants expected to have SDA in their plans by 2027, the sector needs innovative approaches to deliver quality, accessible homes faster. That's where modular construction comes in. What is Modular Construction? Modular construction involves building a home — or significant sections of it — in a controlled factory environment before transporting complete