SDA Funding Rejected? Here’s Your Next Step
Being denied Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) funding through the NDIS can be disheartening, especially if you've spent time and effort preparing your application. But a rejection doesn’t mean the end of the road—it’s often just a step in a longer journey. Here’s what to do if you’ve been rejected for SDA funding, and how to move forward with confidence.
1. Take a Breath and Read the Decision Carefully
First, don’t panic. Rejections can happen for many reasons, and they don’t always reflect the severity of your disability or your need for SDA. Start by carefully reviewing the NDIS decision letter. Look for:
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The reasons for rejection
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What evidence was considered
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Any areas where the application was found to be lacking
Understanding exactly why you were rejected is key to planning your next steps.
2. Clarify the Grounds for Refusal
Common reasons for SDA funding rejection include:
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Lack of detailed functional assessments
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Unclear housing goals in your NDIS plan
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Insufficient evidence that current housing is unsuitable
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Lack of support from medical or allied health professionals
It’s essential to match the criteria laid out in the SDA Rules and Operational Guidelines. If these weren’t clearly addressed in your application, that might have contributed to the rejection.
3. Request an Internal Review
If you believe the decision was made in error or if new evidence has become available, you can request a review of the decision. This must be done within three months of the decision date.
To request a review:
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Fill out the NDIS internal review request form
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Attach any new or updated evidence
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Be clear about which part of the decision you're challenging and why
4. Strengthen Your Evidence
Before reapplying or going to review, work with professionals to build a stronger evidence base:
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Get updated occupational therapy reports, focusing on your functional impairment and support needs
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Clarify your housing goals in your NDIS plan
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Include letters of support from healthcare providers
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Consider a Housing Needs Report to show why mainstream housing options are not suitable
Tip: Make sure the language in reports aligns with SDA eligibility criteria. An experienced NDIS allied health professional can make a big difference.
5. Seek Support from a Support Coordinator or Advocate
Navigating SDA funding is complex, and it helps to have experts on your side. A support coordinator or disability advocate can:
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Help interpret the NDIS decision
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Assist with gathering appropriate evidence
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Guide you through the review or reapplication process
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Liaise with the NDIA on your behalf
6. Know Your Appeal Rights
If your internal review is also unsuccessful, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). This is a more formal process but can be effective in cases where strong evidence supports your eligibility.
Before proceeding to the AAT, make sure you:
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Understand what’s involved
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Have legal or advocacy support
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Have gathered thorough documentation
7. Stay Informed and Empowered
NDIS policies and processes can evolve. Stay up to date with:
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SDA pricing and eligibility updates
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NDIS planning policies
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New housing developments that may fit your needs
Join online communities or forums for NDIS participants, where others share tips and experiences around SDA.
Final Thoughts
A rejection for SDA funding is not the end—it's a signal to re-evaluate, rebuild, and reapply. Many participants are successful the second time around with the right support and information. Keep advocating for yourself and lean on professionals who understand the system.
You deserve housing that meets your needs. Don’t give up.
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.
