Making the Move to SDA – Preparing for Independence and Peace of Mind

A new chapter for families

Supporting your family member to move into their own home is a big step for everyone. It can
bring a mix of feelings such as pride, hope, worry and uncertainty about what life will look like.
All of these feelings are normal.

Moving out is not just about finding a place to live. It is about creating a home that feels right,
a place where your family member can make choices, build confidence and stay connected to
the people who matter most.

This guide shares practical steps and advice to help you and your loved one feel ready for this
next stage. With time, planning and open conversations, independence can bring peace of
mind for you all.

Getting ready for the move

Moving out takes time and teamwork. Start by talking together about what independence
means. It might be living with friends, having more privacy or learning new skills to manage
daily life.

Some things that can help:
• Visit possible homes together and talk about what feels comfortable or not

• Make a list of skills to build before the move, such as cooking, budgeting or transport

• Create a plan that shows who is helping with what and when things will happen

• Keep checking in along the way and adjust as you go.

This can also be an emotional time. Your family member might feel excited and nervous. You might feel proud but also unsure. Take time to talk about how everyone is feeling.

Moving out does not mean stepping away. It means supporting your family member in a different way, staying involved and helping them settle into their new routine.

Think of it as a chance to build confidence, not just change an address.

Finding the right home and support

The right home is about more than design and accessibility. It should feel safe, comfortable and connected to everyday life.

Once Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is included in your NDIS plan, you can start looking for a home that feels like a good fit. Everyone’s idea of home is different. For some, it is privacy and quiet. For others, it is being part of a lively household or a close community.

Things to think about:
• Needs: What supports or features will make daily life easier, such as medical, mobility or
personal needs

• Location: Where do you feel most at home, near family, shops or transport?

• Accessibility: Does the home and neighbourhood meet your current and future access needs?

• Support: What level of staffing or daily help is needed?

• Living arrangements: Would you prefer to live alone or share with others?

When you visit homes or meet with providers, look beyond the physical space. Ask how people are supported to live the way they want to.

It is natural to want reassurance that your family member will be safe and supported. Meeting the team and talking to other families can help you see what life might look like day to day.

Finding the right home is about more than where you live. It is about creating a place where your family member feels secure, included and confident.

Staying connected and supported

Being independent does not mean being alone. A strong support network makes all the difference.

You might like to:
• Plan regular check-ins or visits

• Encourage friendships, hobbies and local activities

• Build a team of trusted people who understand your loved one’s goals and routines.

It is normal to miss the closeness of living together. Staying connected in new ways such as visits, phone calls or shared family chats helps everyone adjust.

What matters most is knowing that your family member is surrounded by people who care and that you are still part of their circle of support.

Learning from other families

Families who have supported a move into independent living often talk about the value of planning early, visiting homes together and keeping communication open.

Many say their relationships grow stronger as their loved one settles into a new routine and gains confidence in making decisions for themselves. Sandra, whose sister Cinzia moved into a Guardian Living SDA home, says,

“She can do more for herself now, make her own decisions, and not have to rely on family all the time.”

Hearing from families who have been through the process can help you see what worked well for them and remind you that it is okay to take things step by step.

Letting go a little can be one of the hardest parts of supporting a person to find independence, but it can also be one of the most rewarding.

When your family member is safe, supported and happy in their own home, you can take comfort in knowing you have helped them take an important step forward.

This is not just about moving out. It is about building a life with more choice, confidence and connection.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Guardian Living works with participants, families, Support Coordinators and OTs to help you:

• Understand your SDA eligibility

• Find the right housing design and location

• Transition smoothly into your new home.

Contact us: 1300 452 732

Email: info@guardianliving.com.au

Visit: guardianliving.com.au