Accessible homes cemented
• Pictured in front of the vacant block are Danish Siddiqui, Jodie Domotor, Tom Tasker and Mathew Hartley.
October 5, 2022
By Taylor Clyne
Four purpose built specialist disability accommodation (SDA) units are planned to get under-way in Scottsdale next year by developer Unify SDA Housing.
Director Tom Tasker said there was an identified needed for housing in Dorset and had partnered with Pathfinder Care to deliver the project.
“We found a private investor to purchase the block and have module plans underway.
“As a registered provider of housing we have our own design firm who completes the project development, finds investment, and then connects up with other service providers in the region, right through to engaging the builder and after the build continue on as managers of the property,” he said.
The funding return is connected to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant with rent around 25 percent of the disability service pension and the STA payment is then claimed separately.
“We are really keen to connect with regional communities, regional communities have definitely been overlooked when it comes to specialist disability accommodation development,” Mr Tasker explained.
More than 28,500 people across the country have STA funding connected to their NDIS pack-age and in Tasmania the most current data showed there were just over 20 properties available for people to live in.
“Many young people with a disability are living in aged care facilities or being supported by their families as there just isn’t the housing for them.
“But with an ageing population, families are wanting a secure future for their children to receive the correct respite care.
“With smaller communities we need to be risk adverse and ensure that we can keep these properties tenanted and have the correct support workers to support the residents.
“It is crucial to the development’s future and why we have partnered with Pathfinder Care.”
Pathfinder manager Danish Siddiqui said the response had been overwhelming from those in the community needing a home.
“We have 80 plus clients spanning Scottsdale, Bridport, Winnaleah and Gladstone and we are yet to have been open for a year,” he said.
“We need to make sure we have the adequate skilled support workers for those with high needs going into these homes.
“In some cases, people need help twenty four seven and the two bed room units will accommodate that.”
Mr Tasker said it was great to connect with future participants who may be living in the home to accommodate customisations in the build.
“This saves hold ups later down the track.”
Pathfinder Care welcomes expressions of interest for the people who will qualify to live in STA units with plans expected to be submitted to Council later in the year.