In this 4th instalment of our popular 'Ask Us Anything' series, we dive deep into an email from Andy, a builder from Adelaide who is a regular podcast listener, and has SDA build ideas for his son. We answer his questions and explore his theories. His questions sparked a discussion about the realities of SDA development, from financial considerations to design best practices, and even his theories on where the SDA market is headed.

Below are some of the points of discussion in this discussion:

• Andy's initial design concept involves two side-by-side dwellings, each intended for two participants, with individual spaces and shared breakout and care rooms. However, the hosts clarified that it will likely end up being one resident per house, and Andy further explained his dual-key design idea, where each house has a main front door entry leading to two separate dwelling entries within the building, essentially two villas inside one house.
• There is a specific safety requirement for a lockable kitchen, using a nib wall to allow exclusion when necessary (e.g., when cooking with hot water). This is seen as essential for some robust participants, though market acceptance and design assessment may vary.
• The idea of separating the carer’s bedroom and office into two rooms is discussed, with consensus that more space for carers is beneficial.
• High, non-climbable fencing is required for robust participants to prevent absconding.
• Post-certification changes can improve property functionality for care teams.
• The dual-key/dual-occupancy design raises concerns about compliance, as participants are supposed to have full access to the entire house. This may conflict with NDIS or design assessment requirements.

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https://ndis.property/reports

EBOOKS:
www.robustdesign.com.au
www.highphysicalsupport.com.au
www.improvedliveability.com.au
www.fullyaccessible.com.au

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NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

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CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

In this episode, Minh chats with Tanisha Simunic, an SDA Assessor, accredited Access Consultant and OT, about her work, background and her view of the SDA world.

Tanisha’s Professional Background and Role
Tanisha is an accredited access consultant, registered occupational therapist, and SDA assessor with nearly a decade of experience in the SDA sector. Her career began in occupational therapy, where an interest in home modifications and architecture led her to access consulting. She now specialises in helping designers and builders create accessible spaces, blending her expertise in disability, function, and environmental design.

The SDA Assessment Process
The process starts when a client submits floor plans for an SDA dwelling. The assessor reviews them against SDA guidelines, providing feedback until compliance is achieved. Once approved, a provisional certification is submitted to the NDIA, giving the client ~2 years to build. After construction, a final inspection ensures adherence to the certified plans before NDIA enrolment.

Concerns About SDA Design Guidelines
Many assessors doubt the future of SDA housing due to unclear design guidelines. Confusion persists over what constitutes a functional SDA dwelling, with reports of enrolled properties being unsuitable for participants. A guideline overhaul is widely seen as necessary.

[LINKEDIN PROFILE]

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LEAVE US A GOOGLE REVIEW!

SDA ADVISORY SERVICES
https://www.sdaadvisory.com.au

SDA RESEARCH REPORTS
https://ndis.property/reports

EBOOKS:
www.robustdesign.com.au
www.highphysicalsupport.com.au
www.improvedliveability.com.au
www.fullyaccessible.com.au

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NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
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CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

Goodbye Postcode Restrictions ... & Hello Distance Restrictions!

Big changes (again) are reshaping NDIS lending landscape, and in this episode, Debbie sits down with Paul Grant from Axis Lending to unpack the latest finance requirements for NDIS property investing, from their perspective as a Mortgage Manager.

This episode only relates to Origin, the largest wholesale NDIS lender across Australia, and this information discussed doesn't apply to other lenders in the SDA space, for investors looking at NDIS property investments.

Late last year in 2024 we saw significant tightening of eligibility criteria, including new income thresholds ($250K+ household income or $2.5M+ net assets for "sophisticated investors") and geographic restrictions. But as of this week (23rd June 2025), the rules have evolved again - with major implications for investors and participants alike.

Key changes include:
✔️ Postcode restrictions replaced by distance-based rules (50km from Sydney CBD, 25km from other capitals)
✔️ Lending based on 100% alternate use value in major cities (80% in larger regional centres)
✔️ Stronger focus on owner-occupiers and families, who may now qualify for better terms - possibly even standard home loans
✔️ Stricter SMSF requirements, including mandatory upfront Statements of Financial Advice
✔️ Compulsory Due Diligence reports for all purchases

Why does this all matter? These changes reflect a maturing market - one that prioritises sustainable investments while ensuring quality housing for participants.

While investor activity has slowed, the focus on sophisticated buyers and owner-occupiers points to a more stable future. Tune in as Debbie and Paul discuss in detail the new lending rules.

If anyone wants to reach out to Paul Grant, his email is: pgrant@axislending.com.au

Click here for their website - Axis Lending

---------------------------------

SDA ADVISORY SERVICES
https://www.sdaadvisory.com.au

SDA RESEARCH REPORTS
https://ndis.property/reports

EBOOKS:
www.robustdesign.com.au
www.highphysicalsupport.com.au
www.improvedliveability.com.au
www.fullyaccessible.

Send us a text

NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
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CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

In this episode, Minh chats with Bill Kavvadas, Founder of The Fire Knight.

Overview of the Fire Knight

• The product is an advanced, self-sustaining fire suppression system designed to proactively counter fires by detecting true flames and threats early
• Intended for residential use—including group homes and disability accommodations—offering an essential extra layer of safety

Key Product Features and Technical Design

• Self-contained unit with independent water (or eco-friendly fluid) storage (15 litres per typical unit), not reliant on external water mains or pressure.
• Simple installation: ceiling-mounted using an electronic hoist (supports over 30 kilos when full) after fitting into a pre-cut opening
• Integrated sensor array detects genuine fire, flame, heat signatures, and gas leaks
• Activates a salt-based chemical suppression method, avoiding flooding from sustained water flow
• Built-in, downward-facing still image camera captures the scene immediately before activation
• Full control and notifications via dedicated mobile and desktop apps, including remote activation and pre-soaking targeted areas.
• Minimal maintenance (recommended every five years) due to durable stainless steel construction

Comparison with Conventional Fire Protection Systems

• Traditional fire sprinklers:
  • Triggered by temperature (typically at 80°C) when the ceiling is already burning
  • Use pressurized lines with bulbs that, once melted, flood the area, causing potential water damage.
  • Depend on reliable water pressure, sometimes requiring additional pumps
  • Incur ongoing compliance, audit, and maintenance costs - often $5,000 to $6,000 per year
• The Fire Knight system:
  • Detects fires earlier, achieving a 100% suppression rate in early activation tests.
  • Prevents water damage by using a compact 15-litre water-based system with eco-friendly additives, not continuous water flow.
  • Easier and faster to install in various homes, including retrofits in older properties
  • Provides alerts, remote commands, and connectivity to command centres or insurance brokers for added support.

www.thefireknight.com.au

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NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
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CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

Join Debbie and Denise from NDIS Property Australia’s feasibility team as they explain their groundbreaking nationwide research reports process in identifying the most promising suburbs for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) development.

This project was a custom engagement from a NSW developer seeking a top 30 SDA locations report around Australia. This work took 2 months to finalise, and the 5 internal staff members were quite proud of their collaborative achievement in delivering the work for the clients.

Through a rigorous, multi-stage analysis, the team pinpointed locations where property prices sit below $1.5 million (knock down rebuilds) - excluding premium markets like Sydney’s northern and eastern suburbs—while balancing critical factors like:

• Demand drivers: NDIS participant numbers, funding allocations, and provider presence
• Market viability: Property prices, supply/demand gaps, and pipeline developments
• Liveability: Flood risks, amenity access, healthcare, transport, and land availability
• Investment potential: Dwelling mix (1:3 vs. group homes) and occupancy rates

Why Victoria and NSW dominated—and how select suburbs in QLD, TAS, and WA made the cut
The regions that missed out (and why SA and the NT didn’t meet the threshold)

If anyone is seeking a customised report for their own SDA development or investment strategy, please call our team on 1300254397.

Tune in for an insider’s look at the months of data crunching, collaborative debate, and real-world insights behind this landmark study—and what it means for SDA’s future growth.

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LEAVE US A GOOGLE REVIEW!

SDA ADVISORY SERVICES
https://www.sdaadvisory.com.au

SDA RESEARCH REPORTS
https://ndis.property/reports

EBOOKS:
www.robustdesign.com.au
www.highphysicalsupport.com.au
www.improvedliveability.com.au
www.fullyaccessible.com.au

Send us a text

NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

• Recently the NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission have been going around to meet with several large SDA Providers, and Paramount Disability Homes was one such Provider who welcomed the NDIS Commisson into their office to give industry feedback.
• In this episode, Minh talks to Kevin Chen from Paramount about their recent meeting with the NDIS Commission. Representatives from the NDIA flew into Melbourne to meet Paramount at their Box Hill office to chat about the SDA sector.
• Historically, the NDIA has not prioritised the SDA sector, focusing more on SIL or Support Coordination. However, the recent 'Cocoon scandal' has prompted them to direct more attention to SDA due to safety concerns. This indicates a positive shift, with the NDIA beginning to delve deeper into this niche sector.
• Kevin points out a "massive pitfall" in the NDIA's understanding of the SDA market, particularly regarding the financial sector and the process of borrowing for SDA development. He notes that the NDIA seemed unaware of tightening financing issues, mistakenly attributing investment challenges solely to high land costs, and that his team had to shed light on these "blind spots."
• The NDIA commission was surprised by how advanced the SDA sector has become in a short period. The scheme was not initially designed to anticipate such rapid growth and significant investment from sophisticated investors, developers, and institutions.
• SDA providers face challenges when contacting the NDIA's general team for queries on funding or delays, often receiving non-specialized feedback. Kevin suggested the crucial need for a dedicated SDA team within the NDIA to provide accurate answers and support, given the industry's rapid growth and niche nature.
• Kevin's impression is that the NDIA's SDA specialist team is definitely under-resourced and understaffed. The increased volume of SDA properties and claims has led to significant administrative delays, particularly for NDIA-managed cases, indicating a lack of sufficient staff to handle the growing demand.
• The NDIA didn't understand why it is very hard to get multiple SIL providers under one roof. Despite idealistic guidelines suggesting one SDA provider could manage three SIL providers under one roof, this is practically 'impossible' due to the complexities of funding support workers. Providers avoid such arrangements because they are extremely difficult to manage effectively.

https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/

--------------------------------

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NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

This episode is all about Hand in Hand Support Coordination. Minh talks to Katalin Jakus, who runs a business that distinguishes itself from other Support Coordination brands through several unique features and approaches:

1. Person-Centred, Holistic Approach

Hand in Hand employs a deeply person-centred and holistic model of support coordination. This means they focus on understanding the whole individual—mental, social, physical, and emotional wellbeing—not just the disability. They prioritize listening to the participant’s goals, preferences, and lived experiences to tailor support plans that truly reflect the person’s unique needs and aspirations.

2. Specialisation in Complex Needs and Mental Health

Katalin’s business has a strong focus on participants with complex mental health and physical disabilities. Their expertise includes supporting people with multiple diagnoses and trauma backgrounds, which requires nuanced understanding and coordination across various government and community sectors such as Health, Mental Health, Justice, and Education.

3. Comprehensive and Flexible Funding Acceptance

Hand in Hand accepts a wide range of funding arrangements, including NDIS NDIA-managed, self-managed, plan-managed, and self-funded clients. They also welcome referrals from TAC (Transport Accident Commission) and WorkSafe, offering flexibility that suits diverse participant circumstances.

4. Specialist Brokerage Service

They provide a specialised brokerage service that supports unregistered NDIS Support Coordinators to maintain compliance and deliver uninterrupted, high-quality services. This service helps with participant onboarding, data management, registration audits, and NDIA fund claims processing, which is not commonly offered by all support coordination providers.

5. Strong Industry Connections and Collaborative Networks

Hand in Hand builds trusted partnerships with third-party providers to ensure the best fit for each participant’s unique requirements. Their collaborative approach fosters a resilient network of supports around the participant, enhancing crisis management and ongoing support planning.

6. Experienced Leadership

Katalin brings extensive experience from crisis care and disability support roles, along with academic qualifications in Disability Studies and Positive Behaviour Support. Her leadership ensures a high standard of service delivery informed by practical experience and ongoing professional development.

https://www.hihvic.com.au

----------------------

Send us a text

NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property

In this episode, Debbie provides a detailed analysis of the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) supply and demand dynamics in two key NSW regions: Newcastle & Lake Macquarie and the Illawarra (Wollongong) area.

She examines current property enrolments across both the broader SA4 regions and the more localised SA3 sub-regions, revealing a critical need to replace older Group and Existing SDA homes with modern New Build SDA properties.

While SDA shortages persist across NSW, identifying high-demand areas with strong investment potential is key. Both Newcastle & Lake Macquarie and the Illawarra demonstrate promising opportunities, making them prime candidates for investors and developers considering new SDA projects in NSW.

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LEAVE US A GOOGLE REVIEW!

SDA ADVISORY SERVICES
https://www.sdaadvisory.com.au

SDA RESEARCH REPORTS
https://ndis.property/reports

EBOOKS:
www.robustdesign.com.au
www.highphysicalsupport.com.au
www.improvedliveability.com.au
www.fullyaccessible.com.au

Send us a text

NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA:
Our team conducts thorough research on Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and provides appropriate technical advice through premium and strategy-based solutions. We also use complex feasibility calculation spreadsheets to help investors understand the expected annual income of an SDA dwelling, the timeline stages of construction of their property, as well as revealing the hidden costs. By staying up-to-date with the latest SDA data and pricing payments information, we help clients make better-informed decisions and achieve their investment goals.

FOLLOW US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

CONTACT:
Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more.

For any podcast related queries or suggestions, please contact our podcast team via podcast@ndis.property