New Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in Wallan is currently under-occupied, despite offering housing solutions that enable independence, according to genU Housing Manager, Shelley Compton.
“We have potential residents caught up in funding delays or appeals,” she said.
“This includes people who develop disabilities later in life—due to accidents, strokes, or neurological conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
“They are used to living autonomously and more innovative options are needed to provide suitable accommodation.
“Unfortunately, funding applications for one- or 2-bedroom units, which can better accommodate their needs, can be complex and take considerable time and resources.”
A 2022 Senate Community Affairs References Committee noted that 40% of NDIS participants experienced delays exceeding six months in receiving decisions on their housing applications. More complex applications can take a year or more.
Purpose built accommodation at Wallan Specialist Disability Accommodation
Opened in 2023, the Wallan property has capacity for nine residents in one-bedroom units and two-bedroom villas. It has been purpose-built to ensure residents can live independently in a safe environment with 24/7 shared onsite support.
“The units and the overall property design allows privacy and autonomy, but with shared spaces that offers more flexibility and potentially efficiencies in shared care options, as well as opportunities for social connections,” Shelley said.
To date, three residents have moved in and are calling the Wallan property home. Three potential residents are currently in the process of fighting for a NDIS funding increase or are appealing funding decisions.
Recently, SDA Australia owners Andrew Alexander and Luke Randles invited key stakeholders to the Wallan property to join forces to address the issue.
GenU CEO Clare Amies welcomed the opportunity to take part to support people hoping to call the residence home. Other attendees included Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell, residents, potential residents and their family and support workers.
genU is a national Supported Independent Living (SIL) provider for NDIS participants and has supported three residents into the Wallan property. It hopes to assist more participants in the future.
Clare shared that while Federal Government support for the SIL model was positive, barriers to access must be removed.
“At a time when many people are desperate for housing, we need to ensure accommodation that has been purpose-built for people with disability is not sitting empty,” she said.
“We understand the complexities of the NDIS and are really keen to work with the Government to support the NDIS get to where it wants to be,” she said.
“SIL gives people the dignity and independence they want and the choice they deserve.”
Pictured: SDA Australia owners Andrew Alexander (left of picture) and Luke Randles (right of picture) at the Wallan Specialist Disability Accommodation in June 2024 with genU CEO Clare Amies and Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell.
Learn more about the Wallan SDA property genU | SDA | Disability Accommodation | Wallan, VIC
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