Standards + Guidelines
The National Disability Insurance Agency defines Specialist Disability Accommodation as ‘specialist designed housing—including land and built form (user cost of capital)—for NDIS participants requiring integrated housing and supports, due to their significant functional impairment and/or complex needs’(i).
On 14 March 2017 the NDIS (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Rules 2017 (SDA Rules) came into effect(ii). The SDA Rules, together with the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013, and the broader NDIS Rules under the Act, establish the framework for providing SDA to participants within the NDIS. This framework includes standards, guidelines, and annual price guides relating to SDA(iii),(iv). When making decisions about SDA, it is very important to access current and specific information regarding state and national requirements. More generally, some key things to consider are listed below.
ii. https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F2017L00209
iii. https://www.ndis.gov.au/specialist-disability-accommodation
iv. http://www.livablehousingaustralia.org.au/117/about-the-guidelines.aspx
1 | Shared land restrictions apply for new builds - refer NDIA SDA dwelling enrolment form. |
2 | At least one bedroom must offer a bedhead wall: minimum 4060mm x 3030mm. |
3 | Window sill height: maximum 1000mm above finished floor (except in kitchen, bathroom or utility spaces). |
4 | Window controls must be be easy to operate with one hand, + easily accessible from a seated or standing position. |
5 | The typical Building Code of Australia classification of villas/units/townhouses is Class 1(a)(i), Class 1(a) (ii) or Class 3. |
6 | Corridors/passageways clear width : minimum 1200mm. |
7 | Identification of dedicated space for on-site overnight assistance (OOA) is required if OOA is to be provided. |
8 | Consider requirement for provision of dedicated space for onsite overnight support based on tenant need. |
9 | Slip resistant flooring must extend under all laundry joinery to allow for future changes. |
10 | Clear opening of doors should be minimum 900mm, with a level transition + threshold. |
11 | Task lighting is required above workspaces. |
12 | Door hardware to be D-pull or lever style. |
13 | Laminated glass should be incorporated. |
14 | All external doors to be accessible by wheelchair. |
