Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a specific category of support within the Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). 

SDA refers to accommodation for people with very high or complex support needs who require specialised housing solutions that cater to their disabilities. 

The primary purpose of SDA is to provide suitable housing that incorporates features, design, and technology to enhance the independence and quality of life for individuals with significant disabilities.

SDA operates with separate funding from other NDIS support categories, solely allocated for housing needs, and is delivered by registered providers meeting stringent quality and safety standards.

The NDIS is an Australian government initiative aimed at providing support and services to people with disabilities. The primary goal of the NDIS is to empower people with disabilities to lead more independent lives and participate fully in their communities. 

The scheme aims to provide a person-centred approach, tailoring support to the specific needs and goals of each individual.

NDIS plans allocate funding across various categories, allowing participants to choose service providers and manage their funds independently. The flexibility of the scheme enables individuals to direct their support toward daily living, community participation, education, and more.

The National Construction Code (NCC) sets out the minimum construction requirements for all new building work in Australia. The dwelling is required to comply with all applicable requirements of the NCC, including but not limited to waterproofing and termite protection measures. 

Apart from the spatial requirements as noted in this NDIS SDA Design Standard, where there is a conflict between the NCC and the NDIS SDA Design Standard, the NCC takes precedence⁽¹⁾.

(1) NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation Design Standard. Edition 1.1 Issue Date 25th October 2019

The Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Design Standards consists of four Design Categories that design requirements relate to throughout the standard. For consistency, these four categories have been utilised throughout this brochure to assist with identifying which design categories apply to our products.

Improved Livability
Housing that has been designed to improve ‘Livability’ by incorporating a reasonable level of physical access and enhanced provision for people with sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairment.

Fully Accessible
Housing that has been designed to incorporate a high level of physical access provision for people with significant physical impairment or high support needs.

Robust
Housing that has been designed to incorporate a reasonable level of physical access provision and be very resilient, reducing the likelihood of reactive maintenance and reducing the risk to the both the residents and the community.

High Physical Support
Housing that has been designed to incorporate a high level of physical access provision for people with significant physical impairment and require very high levels of support.

In designing a robust home, attention to tapware and sanitaryware involves prioritising durability, functionality, and water efficiency. The selection of materials, such as stainless steel or brass, emphasises longevity and resistance to corrosion. Water-efficient features, like low-flow technology, are considered to promote sustainability. Additionally, a focus on easy maintenance is maintained, with designs that facilitate straightforward cleaning. Ensuring adaptability and accessibility, such as incorporating lever handles and strategically placed grab bars, caters to diverse user needs.

The cohesive integration of style and aesthetics is important, ensuring that tapware and sanitaryware complement the overall design of the home. Consistency in design and finish throughout the house contributes to a unified and visually pleasing environment. Exploring smart technologies, like touchless faucets and sensor-controlled toilets, adds modern functionality and promotes hygiene.

For NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) housing, tapware needs to be designed with accessibility, safety, and durability in mind. This includes:

• Anti-Ligature Tapware: These are designed to prevent self-harm and are often used in environments where safety is a priority. They have smooth, rounded designs without sharp edges.
• Vandal-Resistant Tapware: Built to withstand heavy use and potential abuse, these fixtures are robust and durable, making them ideal for high-risk environments.
• Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs): These valves ensure that water temperature remains consistent, preventing scalding and providing a safer experience for users.
• Lever-Operated Tapware: These taps are easier to operate for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity. They often feature long levers that require minimal effort to use.
• Sensor-Activated Tapware: Touchless taps reduce the risk of cross-contamination and are easier to use for individuals with mobility impairments.

For NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) housing, sanitaryware needs to be designed with accessibility, safety, and durability in mind. This includes: 

• Anti-ligature and Vandal-Resistant Fixtures: These are designed to prevent self-harm and withstand heavy use. They include toilets, basins, and tapware that are robust and secure.
• Accessible Basins and Toilets: These are designed to be easily used by individuals with mobility impairments. Features often include adjustable heights, easy-to-reach controls, and support rails2.
• Thermostatically Controlled Showers: These showers help prevent scalding by maintaining a safe water temperature. They are crucial for ensuring the safety of residents.
• Grab Rails and Support Bars: These are essential for providing stability and support, helping residents move safely within the bathroom.
• Non-Slip Flooring and Drainage Solutions: Ensuring the bathroom floor is non-slip and has effective drainage helps prevent accidents and maintain hygiene.

Yes, there are specific design considerations for bathrooms in NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) housing to ensure they meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. This includes:

• Accessibility: Bathrooms must be fully accessible, which includes features such as widened doorways, level access showers, and sufficient space for manoeuvring wheelchairs.
• Safety: Safety features such as grab rails, non-slip flooring, and emergency call systems are essential to prevent accidents and provide immediate assistance if needed.
• Adaptability: The design should allow for future modifications. This includes adjustable-height fixtures and fittings, and the ability to install additional support equipment as required.
• Ease of Use: Fixtures and fittings should be easy to use for individuals with limited dexterity. This includes lever-style taps, easy-to-reach storage, and clear, simple controls.
• Privacy and Dignity: Ensuring privacy and dignity is crucial. This can be achieved through thoughtful layout design, such as positioning the toilet and shower to allow for privacy screens or curtains.

Tapware and sanitaryware products play a crucial role in supporting the overall goals of NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) housing by enhancing accessibility, safety, and independence for residents. This includes:

• Accessibility: Tapware and sanitaryware are designed to be easily accessible for individuals with disabilities. This includes features like lever-style taps, which are easier to operate for people with limited dexterity, and height-adjustable sinks and toilets.
• Safety: Products are often equipped with safety features such as anti-scald technology in taps and thermostatically controlled showers to prevent burns. Non-slip surfaces and grab rails are also common to reduce the risk of falls.
• Independence: By incorporating user-friendly designs, these products enable residents to perform daily tasks with minimal assistance. For example, sensor-activated taps and touchless flush systems can be particularly beneficial.
• Durability and Maintenance: Tapware and sanitaryware in SDA housing are built to be robust and durable, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and ensuring long-term usability. This includes vandal-resistant and anti-ligature designs to enhance safety and longevity.
• Compliance with Standards: These products are designed to meet Australian Standards and NDIS requirements, ensuring they are fit for purpose and provide a safe, comfortable environment for residents.