Insight + Resources
Perth Rooftop Lunch, Learn and Connect Recap: Navigating SDA & SIL with Greg Barry
Empowering Support Coordinators and NDIS participants with expert SDA housing insights in the heart of Cannington.
The Perth sunshine provided the perfect backdrop as NDIS participants, Support Coordinators and NDIS professionals gathered on the rooftop garden at Vera Living’s Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) apartments in Cannington. This exclusive "Lunch, Learn and Connect" session, co-hosted by Metacare Hub and Vera Living, featured sector expert, Greg Barry, founder of SDA Services.
The event focused on bridging the gap between NDIS funding and SDA housing outcomes, offering deep dives into SDA and Supported Independent Living (SIL).
Mastering the SDA Journey: Eligibility & Evidence
Greg Barry opened the session by exploring the complexities of SDA funding. For Support Coordinators, the key is knowing how to translate an NDIS participant's goals into the specific clinical and non-clinical evidence the NDIA requires.
Key takeaways included:
The Power of Evidence: Why high-quality occupational therapy reports are fundamental to a successful application.
Navigating Appeals: Strategies for managing the review process to secure the best possible outcomes for NDIS participants.
SDA Eligibility Tool: Attendees were introduced to the free SDA Eligibility Tool, a vital resource developed by Vera Living and SDA Services providing users with a quick initial and confidential accurate assessment of SDA eligibility.
Top Tip: Learn more about SDA with Vera Living’s Complete Guide to SDA.
SIL & The Concierge Model: Enhancing Independence
Guest speaker Kamal Silwal, General Manager of Metacare Hub, shifted the focus to the "living" side of SDA. He explored how the concierge Supported Independent Living (SIL) model works within SDA apartments and shared home settings to provide on-site, tailored support to NDIS participants when they need it.
This onsite concierge model is ideal for hospital discharge pathways and nurse-led transitions, ensuring participants have 24/7 peace of mind while maintaining their independence in a private or shared home.
Real Outcomes: Families Staying Together in SDA Through Appendix H Funding
Cel Stowers, Participant Engagement Specialist at Vera Living, shared real stories of the impact of SDA on NDIS participants and beyond. Cel shared stories from across Australia of where Vera Living has supported families and loved ones to live together in SDA with Appendix H funding. This funding enables NDIS participants to live in SDA properties with loved ones or family members who are not eligible for SDA funding. The lasting impact on participants and their loved ones is profound, changing lives through keeping families together where this is the best outcome for all involved.
To find out more about Appendix H and how Vera Living supports families to live together in SDA, read our complete guide to Appendix H
Q&A Session
Sector Ethics & Best Practice: The Q&A session emphasised that successful housing journeys rely on:
Collaboration: Providers must work closely with the NDIS participant’s support network.
Ethics: Maintaining an empathetic, participant-first approach in every interaction.
Continuous Learning: Staying informed as the NDIS housing landscape evolves.
Actionable Next Steps for Support Coordinators
Ready to apply these insights to your practice? Here is your post-event checklist:
Audit Current Clients: Use the SDA Eligibility Tool to identify participants who may benefit from a housing review.
Strengthen Applications: Ensure all upcoming SDA reports include both clinical data and personal preference narratives.
Explore SDA Vacancies: Explore Vera Living’s SDA vacancies in Perth and book a tour to see these accessible designs firsthand.
Plan Transitions: Connect with SIL providers early in the hospital discharge process to streamline the move.
Looking for high-quality SDA options in WA? Get in touch with the Vera Living team today to discuss your clients' needs or to arrange a tour of our Cannington SDA apartments.
