The Support Coordinator’s Role in Housing for Dual-Diagnosis Participants
Finding the right housing for NDIS participants is never a one-size-fits-all journey—especially for individuals with a dual diagnosis. These participants face the combined challenges of both mental health and disability-related needs, which makes housing not just about a roof over their head, but about safety, therapeutic support, and long-term stability.
As a Support Coordinator, your role is vital. Here’s how you can confidently guide dual-diagnosis participants through the complex housing landscape.
1. Understand the Nuances of Dual Diagnosis
A dual diagnosis often means a participant is managing both a psychosocial disability and another condition such as autism, intellectual disability, or a physical impairment. This can present layered support needs that may not be adequately met by standard housing options.
Tip: Take time to understand how each diagnosis impacts daily functioning, emotional regulation, medication routines, and social interaction. Tailor your housing options accordingly.
2. Collaborate Early with Allied Health and Mental Health Teams
A housing plan for a dual-diagnosis participant should never be developed in isolation. Collaboration is key.
Who to involve:
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Psychologists or psychiatrists
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Occupational therapists (for functional assessments)
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Behaviour support practitioners
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GP or community mental health teams
Why: Their reports not only provide critical insights into the participant’s daily needs and risks but also strengthen any housing applications (SDA, SIL, ILO).
3. Prioritise Stable, Therapeutic Environments
Dual-diagnosis participants often benefit from environments that offer structure, quiet, routine, and emotional safety. Sudden changes in housing or housemates can trigger regressions or crisis episodes.
Look for:
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SIL homes with low staff turnover
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SDA homes with robust safety features and sensory-sensitive designs
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ILO arrangements that allow more control and personalization
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Locations close to mental health services or community supports
4. Be Strategic with NDIS Funding Requests
A strong Housing Evidence Report is essential to secure the right supports. Make sure it outlines:
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The complexity of the dual diagnosis
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The participant’s functional impairments across both disabilities
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Specific housing features required for stability and safety
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Risk factors if left in unsuitable housing
Don’t forget: NDIS may fund Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), Supported Independent Living (SIL), or even Individualised Living Options (ILO) if clearly justified.
5. Advocate Relentlessly—and Creatively
There may not be a perfect vacancy immediately. Be prepared to:
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Negotiate transitional housing options
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Work with providers to create a new ILO arrangement
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Support applications for private rental assistance, if needed
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Request flexible supports during housing transitions (e.g., increased psychosocial recovery coaching)
Your persistence often makes the difference between a participant being "placed somewhere" and finding a home that helps them thrive.
6. Monitor, Adjust, and Reassess
Once housing is secured, your job isn’t done. Schedule regular check-ins, ensure supports are working, and be alert to early signs of distress or deterioration. Advocate for reassessments if conditions change.
Key question to ask:
“Is this housing still supporting recovery, participation, and independence?”
Final Thoughts
Dual-diagnosis participants deserve more than shelter—they deserve a space where they feel safe, respected, and supported. As a Support Coordinator, your insight and advocacy can turn this vision into reality. By understanding their unique needs, building the right team, and navigating the system proactively, you become a critical bridge between vulnerability and stability.
Looking for SDA Accommodation?
We’re here to help. Whether you need support gathering reports, finding providers, or navigating the NDIS system, get in touch with our team. Let’s work together to help you find your perfect home.
Our team At Ausnew Home Care is here to assist you in finding the perfect living arrangement that supports your independence and well-being.
