Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Assessments by Occupational Therapists

Applying for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) under the NDIS can feel like a complex process — and for good reason. SDA funding is designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs who require a specially designed home to live safely and as independently as possible.

One of the most important pieces of evidence in this process is the SDA Assessment Report, written by an experienced occupational therapist (OT). At CARED, we often support participants and their support coordinators through this process, and we know how overwhelming it can be at first. This guide is here to help you understand what an SDA assessment involves, who it’s for, and how to get prepared.

What Is an SDA Assessment?

An SDA assessment is a functional and environmental assessment completed by a qualified occupational therapist. Its purpose is to determine whether someone is eligible for SDA funding under the NDIS, and if so, what type and design of housing they require.

Unlike other reports, an SDA assessment doesn’t focus just on support needs — it looks at how a person’s current living environment impacts their ability to live safely, with dignity, and in line with their goals.

The OT assesses things like:

• Accessibility of the current home (e.g. stairs, narrow doorways, no accessible bathroom)
• Risks to safety (e.g. falls, behaviours of concern, absconding)
• The level of support required for daily living
• The suitability of alternative housing models (e.g. SIL without SDA, group homes, private rentals)
• How SDA will help the person pursue goals and reduce reliance on formal supports

Who Is SDA For?

SDA is only for a small percentage of NDIS participants — roughly 6%. To be eligible, a person must meet one of two key criteria:

1. Extreme Functional Impairment
2. Very High Support Needs

The OT’s report is essential in demonstrating whether you meet either (or both) of these. Without strong clinical justification from an allied health professional, SDA funding is unlikely to be approved — even if the need seems obvious.

What Does the OT Include in the SDA Report?

A high-quality SDA report includes:

• Detailed history of the participant’s disability and functional impairments
• Assessment of current housing — what’s working, what’s not, and why it can’t be reasonably modified
• Risks and barriers — e.g. lack of physical access, carer injury, self-harm, social isolation
• Comparison of housing options — why standard rental, group homes or supported independent living without SDA are not suitable
• SDA design category recommendation — e.g. Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, or High Physical Support
• Built type and dwelling type suggestions — such as apartment vs. house, shared vs. single occupancy
• How SDA supports NDIS goals — promoting independence, reducing paid supports, improving quality of life

This report is submitted alongside a Housing Evidence Form (completed by a support coordinator or housing provider) as part of the NDIS SDA application process.

How to Prepare for an SDA Assessment

Preparing for an SDA assessment can make the process smoother and more accurate. Here’s what can help:

• Have a clear housing goal — What do you want your ideal living situation to look like?
• Describe your daily challenges honestly — even the uncomfortable ones.
• Provide examples of what has or hasn’t worked in previous homes.
• Gather supporting documents like behaviour support plans, incident reports, or specialist letters.
• Involve your supports — carers, family, or housing providers can offer helpful context.

A Note on SDA vs SIL

It’s common to confuse SDA (housing) with SIL (support). The two are separate — you can receive one without the other. However, many participants who are eligible for SDA may also need SIL. Your OT can help clarify what’s appropriate in your case and may complete reports for both streams if required.

We’re Here to Support You

At CARED, we understand the emotional and practical complexities of finding the right home through the NDIS. Whether you’re a participant, carer or support coordinator, we can help you connect with experienced occupational therapists, interpret SDA eligibility, and guide you through each step with care and clarity.

Need help with SDA assessments or housing support?
Speak to the team at CARED — we’re here to help make your housing goals a reality.

‍