Libby Callaway, Occupational Therapy Department, Monash University
Kate Tregloan, Architecture Department, Monash University
Kirrily Hayward, Monash University
The introduction of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has changed the way supports are funded, including Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). This change requires understanding of the new housing policy and its potential application.
Post-occupancy evaluation fieldwork of housing, technology and support design was undertaken with NDIS participants across Australia to examine experiences of housing design. A national housing roundtable was held with government representatives and the National Disability Insurance Agency. Research findings were coupled with NDIS policy and converted into virtual reality within ‘My Home Space’ – a free, interactive online platform. In ‘My Home Space’, virtual housing tours can be filtered by SDA design category and housing type, as well as other criteria, allowing the user to customise information to their needs. ‘My Home Space’ was designed and tested with NDIS participants, families and other stakeholders. A range of accessibility features have been incorporated and tested.
The application of multimedia methods, drawn together through interdisciplinary research, offers improved understanding of NDIS housing policy in real-life practice for people with disability. This innovative approach is one in a suite of information sources developed by our team to ensure housing information is accessible, relevant and can be applied in everyday life.