Queensland’s not for profit community housing provider Community Housing (Qld) Ltd together with Youngcare and Department of Public Works and Housing will unveil a new state-of-the-art Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in inner-city suburb, Wooloowin this weekend, providing quality accessible housing and fulltime care for six residents with high care disabilities.

The high quality, purpose built, and architecturally designed development expands the suitable housing options available for young people aged 18–65 with high physical-care needs, reducing the likelihood of these individuals entering institutionalised accommodation like aged care.

As it stands, there is an estimated 1,450 Queenslanders with SDA allowances in their plans, but only 440 SDA dwellings in construction — indicating a shortfall of nearly 70 per cent of demand across the state. Of these Queenslanders, 245 live in Brisbane.

Queensland State Manager, Community Housing Qld Ltd, Frances Paterson-Fleider said, “As a leading community housing provider, increasing the supply of affordable and accessible housing is a priority for Community Housing Qld Ltd. With our 20 years of experience in developing specialised disability accommodation, this residence is going to be a showcase project in independent living for those with special care needs supporting independence, choice and dignity. It has been a wonderful partnership with Youngcare and the Queensland State Government and we look forward to continuing this strong relationship into the future.”

The new development is a mix of shared and self-contained accommodation including three townhouses and a share house for three people along with overnight accommodation for a care provider.

The cutting-edge automated technology and equipment is suited to a range of unique care needs, enabling the residents to live with more independence. A communal garden and covered alfresco space encourages new residents to socialise with each other and guests, with a shared pathway for ease of access to the Youngcare Share House next door.

Youngcare CEO Anthony Ryan said Youngcare’s Wooloowin Stage II development is vital in taking another positive step towards truly integrated living for younger people with disabilities in Queensland.

“Youngcare is leading the way, partnering with Community Housing, to create a second residence at Wooloowin that not only fulfils the SDA requirements, but creates a truly independent, dignified and integrated lifestyle for the young people living there,” he said.

The SDA initiative provides an unparalleled opportunity to increase the supply of appropriate accommodation, Ryan said but also lift the standard of the housing choices available to young Australians living with a disability. Wooloowin Stage II will cater to the increasing demand from young Queenslanders with disabilities to live in a centrally located area with easyaccess to the CBD, amenities, social activities, public transport, schools and university campuses.

The $3 million project has been funded by Community Housing (Qld) Ltd with contributions from Youngcare, Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust and Queensland state government who have provided the land for this development.