Could I really live in SDA?
I first saw my apartment in a Facebook post.
I recall being excited but feeling that it was unattainable. Or that if I did not keep up to date with the Facebook post the opportunity would be lost. I felt it was a bit of a tease at the time but one worthwhile as it gave me hope. I knew of some people who lived independently with support but I was not successful in getting accessible public housing or suitable supports. At that time, I had no-one to give me knowledge or help with my immediate problem without feeling like my nose was being rubbed in their good fortune.
Liz looking at her laptop
Backward thinking support staff familiar with one model one way, only saw my limitations and not my capabilities. In my shared supported accommodation (group home), staff were open, blunt and frankly rude when expressing their thoughts on my ability to live independently. But they did not really know me and I felt they should have kept their unhelpful opinions to themselves.
My family wanted security for me but also wanted me to be happy and safe where I lived. Everybody was excited when the applications came out, it was strange being excited but anxious when thinking that my application may not be successful and I may miss out.
There is not one housing model anymore for people with a disability to live in – group homes are not the only option available. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) may be new but this is happening now. There are real people with a disability living in their own SDA property, appropriately supported as individuals and with the security of a 24/7 onsite support service.
The Housing Hub is here to help you explore different living options, exercise your right to choose where you want to live and work out what model of support works best for you.
Don’t accept being told by other people where you have to live and what supports you need.
Live your life the way you choose.
About the Author
Liz has worked as a Lived Experience Facilitator in the Summer Foundation's Housing Hub Team since June 2020. Liz brings personal experience of having lived in various types of housing and now lives in an SDA apartment.
Liz has also been on the Committee of Management for the Association of Children with a Disability since 2013 and currently serves as its Secretary. With qualification in Social Work Liz is also currently undertaking study in Cert IV Training and Assessment
Liz is passionate about people with disability taking control of their own housing journeys and being supported to explore housing and support options that suit them.
Questions about NDIS Housing?
Call our NDIS Housing Advice line
For people with disability, families, and supporters. Monday – Friday 10.00am – 3.00pm AEDT. You can also email us anytime at housingoptions@housinghub.org.au.
