How to Submit a Home and Living Request to the NDIA

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 application' process and is designed to take a more holistic view of a participant's housing and living support needs.

The NDIA uses this process to assess what type of housing and supports will best help a participant achieve their goals, maximise their independence, and ensure their safety.

Step 1: Gather Your Evidence

Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful Home and Living request. You'll need to gather documentation that clearly demonstrates your disability-related housing needs. Key evidence includes:

• Functional Capacity Assessment — an occupational therapist (OT) report detailing your physical, sensory, and cognitive functional capacity and how it relates to your housing needs.

• Current Living Situation — documentation of why your current housing is not suitable (safety risks, accessibility barriers, inadequate supports).

• Support Needs Assessment — evidence of the type and level of daily supports you require.

• Allied Health Reports — any relevant reports from physiotherapists, speech pathologists, psychologists, or behavioural specialists.

• Medical Evidence — specialist medical reports confirming your diagnosis and prognosis.

Step 2: Work With Your Support Coordinator

Your support coordinator plays a crucial role in the Home and Living process. They can help you:

• Identify the right SDA design category for your needs

• Coordinate the collection of evidence and reports

• Complete the Home and Living request form

• Liaise with the NDIA on your behalf

• Explore available SDA options in your preferred location

If you don't have a support coordinator, you can request one in your NDIS plan, or you can submit a Home and Living request independently or with the help of a disability advocate.

Step 3: Complete the Home and Living Form

The NDIA's Home and Living request form asks about your current living situation, your goals, your support needs, and the type of housing you're requesting. Be specific and detailed — the more clearly you articulate your needs, the stronger your request will be.

Key areas covered in the form include:

• Your current accommodation and why it doesn't meet your needs

• Your housing goals and preferences

• The SDA design category and building type you're requesting

• Your preferred location(s)

• Your daily support requirements

Step 4: Submit and Follow Up

Once your request is complete, submit it to the NDIA. You can do this through the myGov NDIS portal, by calling the NDIA (1800 800 110), or through your support coordinator.

After submission, the NDIA will review your request and may ask for additional information. Response times vary, but you should expect a decision within 60–90 days. If the NDIA requests additional evidence, providing it promptly will help avoid delays.

Step 5: Plan Meeting and SDA Funding

If your Home and Living request is approved, SDA funding will be included in your next NDIS plan. Your plan will specify the SDA design category, building type, and location you've been approved for. You can then begin searching for suitable SDA housing.

Tips for a Successful Request

• Be specific — vague descriptions of your needs are less compelling than detailed, specific evidence.

• Align evidence with SDA criteria — ensure your OT and allied health reports specifically address SDA eligibility criteria.

• Start early — gathering evidence takes time. Begin the process well before your plan review.

• Seek support — don't try to navigate this alone. Support coordinators, disability advocates, and providers like dwellSDA are here to help.

At dwellSDA, we regularly assist participants and their support coordinators through the Home and Living process. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your needs and how we can help.