Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

SDA refers to the home itself - specialist housing designed to reduce barriers and support your independence. SDA is often paired with other supports like Supported Independent Living (SIL), or what’s now more broadly referred to as daily supports under the evolving NDIS Home and Living framework.

SDA = the home
SIL = the supports

These can work together or independently depending on what works best for you.

Yes. Yooralla partners with a wide network of SDA providers, giving you greater choice in where and how you live. Our role is to deliver quality daily supports and walk alongside you as you explore your housing options.

All SDA homes supported by Yooralla:

• Meet one of the 5 SDA design categories
• Include accessibility features based on individual needs
• Are located near essential amenities and services
• Are supported by experienced, rights-based staff committed to your goals

You may be eligible if:

• You’re an NDIS participant with a permanent and significant disability
• You require specialist housing to live independently
• You need formal daily supports (eg. from support workers)
• Your current housing doesn’t meet your long-term support needs

Yooralla has supported people with disability to live great lives for over 100 years. We take a collaborative, participant led approach to daily supports and offer:

• A broad network of SDA housing partners
• Tailored daily supports that adapt to your needs
• Teams trained in rights based, inclusive practice
• A clear separation of housing and support giving you more choice and control

Your housing should support your independence — not limit your options.

The NDIS recognises five SDA design categories:

• Basic: Existing stock that meets minimum standards for SDA.
• Improved Liveability: For people with sensory, cognitive, or intellectual disabilities, featuring design elements like visual contrast, natural lighting, and intuitive layouts.
• Fully Accessible: For people with significant physical support needs. Features may include wide doorways, step-free access, and accessible bathrooms/kitchens.
• High Physical Support (HPS): For people with complex physical needs. Includes automation, hoists, emergency power, and assistive technology.
• Robust: For people with complex behavioural support needs. Designed with impact-resistant materials, secure spaces, and low-stimulation environments.

SDA homes can offer:

• Purpose-built accessibility
• More independence and safety
• Housing aligned with your lifestyle and preferences
• Community inclusion and proximity to services
• Supports that grow and change with you

We’re here to help make your vision for home a reality.

Your support team including your support coordinator and allied health professionals will guide you through the process:

1. Include SDA and housing goals in your NDIS plan
2. Complete a Functional Capacity Assessment with an experienced Occupational Therapist
3. Gather relevant supporting documentation
4. Submit the application to the NDIA
5. Explore and apply for suitable SDA properties

Yooralla can support your team with information and help you explore housing options when you’re ready.

At Yooralla, we offer a variety of Home and Living supports tailored to meet your needs and preferences, helping you live as independently as possible with the right support. These supports are flexible, person-centred, and designed to empower you to live the life you choose, whether you require assistance with daily tasks, personalised living arrangements, or more intensive support.

• Daily Supports (SIL): provides tailored support to help you with everyday tasks in your home, whether you live in SDA housing or another accommodation model. These supports are designed to increase your independence while maintaining your safety and wellbeing. SIL can assist with personal care, household tasks, and social participation, empowering you to live the way you want with the right level of assistance to meet your daily needs.
• ILO: offers flexible, personalised living arrangements supported by a combination of paid and informal supports. ILO gives you the choice and control to live independently, whether it’s with housemates, a host, or on your own. This support model is designed around your unique needs, allowing you to create a living environment that reflects your goals and preferences while maintaining flexibility and independence.
• Assistance with Daily Life: supports you with everyday activities to help you live independently and confidently. This may include help with personal care, meal preparation, household tasks, and mobility support. Whether you live in SDA housing, your own home, or another accommodation model, our tailored support ensures you receive the right assistance for daily life tasks and increases your autonomy. We focus on empowering you to live the life you choose by promoting independence and community involvement.