Delivering the NDIS plan: more choice and flexibility for SDA

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert, today announced more flexibility and increased choice for participants to live with their families, friends and partners.

Changes to Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) rules mean couples will be able to share a bedroom where they choose to do so, and children will be able to share a room with their parent or siblings.

SDA is designed for NDIS participants who cannot live in mainstream housing because of extreme functional impairment or very high support needs, but who want to live independently from carers, or whose needs would be best met through SDA.

Minister Robert said the changes are another important step towards helping people with disability reach their goals and live independently.

‘The NDIS enables people with disability to live more independently and one of the most fundamental aspects of all our lives is having choice and control over where we live, who we live with and the supports we need,’ Mr Robert said.

‘We are improving the range of options available to participants who have SDA in their NDIS plans, while also stimulating growth in the SDA housing market.

‘The changes will improve choice for eligible NDIS participants, build market confidence and drive stronger investment in SDA across Australia.’

Today’s announcement also builds on changes being made as part of the Morrison Government’s plan to deliver the NDIS, particularly in delivering better long term outcomes. Previously, the Government has announced a new SDA Design Standard and an SDA Innovation Plan.

It is estimated that around six per cent of NDIS participants will have SDA in their plans when the scheme reaches maturity, or around 28,000 participants.

For more information, visit www.ndis.gov.au.