The Crucial Role of Specialist Disability Accommodation in Addressing Housing and Homelessness for People with Disabilities 

by Sam D’Rosario, Marketing & Communications Manager, OC Connections 

This article was originally published in the January 2025 edition of Parity magazine. Learn more about Parity including how to access full editions.

The intersection of disability, housing, and homelessness is one of Australia’s most pressing social issues. Many people with disabilities live in housing that is unsuitable for their needs, limiting their ability to fully participate in society. Compounding the issue, a significant proportion of people experiencing homelessness also live with disabilities, which exacerbates the challenges they face. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), which is a type of housing designed for people with extreme functional impairment or high support needs, is critical to addressing this complex issue. 

Access to appropriate housing is foundational for everyone, but for people with disabilities, it’s essential for social inclusion, personal safety, and independence. Without suitable housing, many face risks of homelessness, isolation, and a lack of opportunities. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plays a critical role in providing SDA to eligible individuals, but the demand continues to exceed supply. A report released by NDIS in September 2023 projected that demand for SDA will increase at an average growth rate of 2.4 per cent per annum. (1) 

At OC Connections, we’ve seen the transformative impact SDA can have.  

One such case is Andrew, a participant who had been experiencing homelessness before being welcomed into an SDA home. Living on the streets had severely impacted his health and well-being, and without intervention, he would have continued to face instability. Our team quickly moved to place Andrew in a shared home with four other residents, each with their own disabilities and support needs. 

The transition to a supported group home was initially daunting for Andrew, who had never lived in such an environment. Likewise, the other residents had to adapt to a new housemate. However, through the dedication of our team and the acceptance of the other residents and their families, Andrew’s transition went smoothly. 

Within just two weeks, Andrew had settled into his new home, and the changes were remarkable. With support from staff and encouragement from his housemates, his life became more structured. He secured a job in magazine distribution in the CBD, giving him not only financial independence but also a sense of routine and achievement. His participation in the community expanded, and the social isolation that had weighed him down began to fade. 

Andrew’s story highlights the importance of SDA. It’s more than just accommodation – it’s a lifeline for people with disabilities to thrive. These homes are designed to meet specific accessibility needs, and support staff play a pivotal role in helping residents manage daily life, build social connections, and engage in work and community activities. 

Unfortunately, many Australians with disabilities are not as fortunate. The lack of affordable, accessible housing remains a systemic issue, with many people living in unsuitable environments such as aging family homes or private rentals that don’t meet their needs. Some are even placed in institutional care that hinders their independence. For those without adequate support, the risk of homelessness is ever-present. 

People with disabilities experiencing homelessness often find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle. Their disability can make securing housing difficult, while homelessness exacerbates their physical, mental, or cognitive challenges. SDA breaks this cycle by providing both the supportive environment and services needed to help individuals rebuild their lives. 

However, SDA alone is not enough. Adequate funding is essential for maintaining these services and ensuring people like Andrew have access to them.  

While the NDIS has made significant strides, the demand for SDA far outpaces the available supply. Investment in housing infrastructure and the workforce supporting SDA residents is critical. Support staff, in particular, are the lynchpin, offering the care, guidance, and social integration needed for residents to lead fulfilling lives. 

Beyond providing shelter, SDA offers people with disabilities the opportunity to be part of a community. For Andrew, living with supportive housemates has given him more than just a roof over his head –  it has provided him with companionship, a support network, and the tools to participate in life in ways he had not thought possible. The stability of secure housing allows people to focus on their goals and aspirations instead of constantly struggling for survival. 

As Australia faces an ongoing housing crisis, particularly for vulnerable populations, it’s essential to recognise the vital role SDA plays in offering stability, security, and opportunity for people with disabilities. Andrew’s story is just one example of how SDA, with quality support services, can transform lives. If we are to ensure that all Australians, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, SDA must remain a priority in both policy and practice. 

The solution to the complex issue of disability, housing, and homelessness is clear: continued investment in SDA and the professionals who support these services. For people with disabilities, having access to appropriate housing is not a luxury – it’s a fundamental right that enables them to live with independence, purpose, and hope for the future. 

OC Connections is a leading organisation in the disability support sector, offering a range of services that encompass all parts of a person’s life. Whether it is finding a home, support at home, engaging in employment, enjoying hobbies, or getting the most out of your NDIS plan, we provide the level of support needed for participants to achieve their goals, big and small. 

Endnote  

2. National Disability Insurance Scheme 2023, Specialist Disability Accommodation Pricing Review: Demand Projections, https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/9563-sda-demand-projections-report-released   

This article was originally published in Parity magazine. Learn more about Parity including how to access full editions.