The Four SDA Design Categories Explained
The four SDA design categories — at a glance
Every SDA home is built to one of four NDIS design categories — Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, and High Physical Support. Each is built for a different kind of need, and knowing yours makes searching far quicker, because listings are grouped this way.
Improved Liveability
Homes with better physical access plus features that help people with sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairment — for example good lighting, clear lines of sight, and walls and floors that are easy to see. Built for liveability and orientation rather than heavy physical support.
Fully Accessible
Homes with a high level of physical access for people with significant physical impairment — for example someone who uses a wheelchair at home. Think step-free access, wider doorways, and accessible bathrooms and kitchens.
Robust
Homes built to be strong, safe and durable — resilient materials and design that reduce damage and the need for repairs, while keeping the resident and the people around them safe. Built for resilience.
High Physical Support
Homes for people who need very high levels of support. These often include ceiling hoists, backup power, and home automation or communication technology, so support can be delivered safely and independence is maximised.
Which category is mine — and why it matters
Your NDIS plan states the SDA design category you're funded for. It matters because a home built to one category may not suit another need — so when you search, filtering by your design category first saves a lot of time. New SDA homes must be certified against the NDIS SDA Design Standard, and every SDA dwelling must be enrolled with the NDIS before you can move in.
Frequently asked questions
What are the four SDA design categories?
Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, and High Physical Support. Each is built for different needs.
Which SDA category am I funded for?
Your NDIS plan states your design category. If you're unsure, ask your planner or support coordinator.
What is High Physical Support SDA?
Housing for people needing very high levels of support, often with ceiling hoists, backup power and home automation technology.
Can a home be more than one category?
A dwelling is enrolled to a design category. Some homes are designed to meet a higher standard, but you should match a home to the category in your plan.
Where do I find my design category?
It's set out in your NDIS plan. A support coordinator can help you read it.
Know your category? Browse SDA homes by design category, location and features at SDAccommodations.com.au.
Source: NDIS — SDA Design Standard.
