Newcastle offers a range of healthcare, community and recreational facilities that support independent living. From specialist medical services at John Hunter Hospital to accessible public spaces along the Newcastle Foreshore and transport connections throughout the city, residents can stay connected to essential services and their local community.
At Enlarge Living, we provide purpose-built Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for NDIS participants with high support needs. Our focus is on helping you find a home that meets your accessibility requirements, supports your independence and suits your preferred lifestyle.
Specialist Disability Accommodation is NDIS-funded housing specifically designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. These aren’t ordinary homes but purpose-built properties with specialised features that help our residents live more independently while allowing support services to be delivered more effectively and safely.
SDA is different from other NDIS housing options. While Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding covers the cost of support workers and daily living assistance, SDA funding covers the physical building itself and the specialised features that make the home accessible and fit for purpose.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is designed for NDIS participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. Unlike standard housing, SDA properties include specialised design features that make everyday activities easier, safer and more comfortable.
Depending on the property and its SDA design category, these features may include:
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is designed for NDIS participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. Unlike standard housing, SDA properties include specialised design features that make everyday activities easier, safer and more comfortable.
Depending on the property and its SDA design category, these features may include:
These features help create a living environment that supports greater independence while accommodating each participant’s individual accessibility and support requirements.
SDA properties are built to meet different needs through four specialised design categories. Understanding these categories will help identify which type of home best suits your individual requirements.
Improved Liveability homes provide enhanced physical access and features specifically designed for people with sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairments. These homes might include high-contrast surfaces for better visibility, open-plan layouts that allow support workers to maintain appropriate visual contact, minimised steps and level transitions, and thoughtful lighting and acoustics.
This category is ideal for those who need a home that reduces confusion, supports daily routines and makes navigation easier. The design considers how the environment can help residents feel more comfortable and function more independently in day-to-day life.
Fully Accessible SDA is designed for people with significant physical impairments who use wheelchairs or have high mobility support needs. These homes feature wide doorways and corridors throughout, accessible kitchens with adjustable benchtops, modified bathrooms with appropriate fixtures and space, slip-resistant flooring and step-free access to all areas.
Every element of these homes is carefully planned to remove physical barriers. For those who use a manual or powered wheelchair at home, or have significant physical challenges that make standard housing unsuitable, Fully Accessible design provides the freedom to move through living spaces independently and with dignity.
Robust SDA is purpose-built with enhanced structural resilience and safety features for people who may engage in property damage due to complex behaviours. These homes use reinforced walls and impact-resistant materials, secure fixtures and fittings that can withstand significant force, surfaces and finishes that are easy to maintain and repair, and enhanced safety features for both residents and support workers.
The goal of Robust design is to create a safe environment that can cope with challenging behaviours while minimising the need for repairs and reducing risks. For those who need a home environment that provides enhanced durability and security, this category offers that foundation while still maintaining a comfortable, liveable atmosphere.
High Physical Support SDA is designed for people with very high support needs who require extensive assistive technology and care infrastructure. These homes may include ceiling hoist systems for safe transfers, backup power supplies for critical medical equipment, home automation and communication technology, enhanced space for carers and medical equipment, and specialised bathroom and bedroom facilities.
This is the most specialised SDA category, designed to ensure the home can support complex care requirements while helping residents maintain as much independence as possible. The infrastructure in these homes allows for the delivery of intensive support services in a way that respects dignity and quality of life.
Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to choosing a home. Some participants may want to remain close to family and friends, while others prioritise access to healthcare, community activities or quieter residential areas.
We take the time to understand your individual requirements, daily routines and personal preferences to help identify suitable SDA housing options in Newcastle.
Moving into SDA housing often involves working with several different providers. Our team can help coordinate with your existing supports, connect you with suitable Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers and assist with the transition into your new home.
With our local team based in Speers Point, we also provide NDIS Support Coordination in Newcastle, helping participants navigate their plans and connect with the services they need.
No. Your rent doesn’t cover your in-home support (Supported Independent Living) costs for people to provide you with care and support. It also does not cover daily living costs, such as groceries and utility bills.
Yes, support is designed around your daily life, not the other way around. That might include a few hours of support each day, overnight support, or 24/7 support. It can be shared or individual, depending on what works for you, and it can change over time.
Whether you’re looking for suitable SDA accommodation for yourself, a family member or someone you support, our team can help you explore the available options. Get in touch to discuss your housing requirements, preferred location and next steps.
