Accessing Housing

Mainstream housing is housing that anyone can live in. You do not have to have a disability to live in mainstream housing so some houses may not meet your access needs.

Mainstream housing options include:

• Private rental is housing that is available to rent in the private rental market. Private rental housing can include houses, units and apartments.
• Public housing is a long-term form of social housing rental for people who are assessed to need it most. This can include people who have experienced homelessness or, family violence, or have additional support needs.
• Community housing is a form of long-term, affordable rental housing which is managed by not-for-profit organisations. Community housing is for people who have very low incomes or have additional needs.
• Home ownership is a home you already own or have borrowed money from the bank to buy.
• Home sharing is when you share a home with other people. Each person in the home will have their own space but share rooms such as the lounge room, kitchen, laundry and bathroom.

• Moveable units can be moved and set up in the backyard of a carer, friend or relative. Moveable units can help people with a disability or older people live more independently.
• Supported accommodation is housing that comes with support for people with a high level of care needs. Supported housing is for people with a disability or older people who are unable to live independently.
• Supported residential services (SRS) are privately owned businesses which provide accommodation for people who need help with everyday living. Read more about supported residential services.

Specialist disability accommodation (SDA) is for people who have very high physical support or safety needs. SDA offers funding for an NDIS approved house or apartment.  Only a small percentage of people with a disability are eligible for SDA and most people with a disability will need to find mainstream housing and use their NDIS funds to help them live more independently. 

The Summer Foundation has developed some resources for people who are eligible for SDA:

1. What is Specialist Disability Accommodation?
2. Test your eligibility for SDA

• The Housing Hub advertises vacancies for accessible apartments and houses that are owned by housing providers.
• Disability Housing lists houses for sale and for rent.
• Housing Choices Australia houses people with disability in the city and rural areas of Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania.
• Endeavour can help people with disability live on their own through a range of housing options.
• The NDIS Find a Housemate Facebook page helps people with disability and their carers to connect with other NDIS participants who would like to live more independently.
• Domain and Realestate.com are websites that help you to find mainstream housing to rent or buy.