Tenant Story: Felice

I am a person in my late forties and a power wheelchair user living with multiple medical conditions. I have lived in all kinds of housing since leaving my parents’ home at 17. From university residence to share houses, then living with partners to living alone. In all these situations, I relied on strict rostering set up by support agencies. This left little space for changing plans or emergency support situations. I had to beg for someone to come and help me if I needed to use the bathroom or a change of clothes.

At my last unit, people were afraid to come and assist me because it was government owned high-rise housing. I did have access to After Hours support if I chose to go out at night, but it was pricey, and I didn’t like strangers in my home. My life felt restricted, and I was often depressed. I tried to maintain employment, but it wasn’t being offered to me.

In 2020, I attended the Midsuamma Carnival where Summer Foundation had a stall. I didn’t know that something like SDA existed. The representatives were very patient and explained the entire process with contact details. I got home and felt so hopeful for a fresh start, I hugged my cat.

I contacted the Engagement Officer the next day and they talked about assisting me to get a new NDIS plan that would include SDA funding. After months of waiting and submitting what seemed like endless evidence of my eligibility, housing funding was approved in a three-tenant arrangement.

I am unable to share accommodation because of dietary requirements and wanting to have animal companions throughout my life. I also need for my partner to stay at night without needing permission and most shared SDA does not allow for this. I appealed the decision and asked for an Internal Review. The NDIA upheld it and made no changes.

I felt extremely frustrated, so I contacted a tenants advocacy organisation for an AAT (now ART) hearing journey. The scope of knowledge needed to effectively present my case was beyond them, so I was extremely fortunate to receive assistance from a barrister at Victorian Legal Aid. I realise that this does not happen for everyone.

I continued to pursue single SDA accommodation options with Summer Housing. Summer Housing’s investors agreed to cover gaps in SDA funding until the hearing so I could move as soon as I was ready. After too many stressful conference calls lasting for months, the NDIA agreed to give me one tenant/1 bedroom with On Site Support funding, only hours before the hearing was scheduled to begin.

I moved into my new apartment in early January 2021. I have a beautiful garden view from the fourth floor. I now have two cats and part time employment. The 10:1 support model has changed my life as I can go out and return home at any time I choose, and I have assistance in between regular supports.

I finally have the freedom to explore all my interests and contribute to the community. I am living life, and it truly feels wonderful. I can go to social and professional events looking and feeling my best, without the anxiety that used to be a daily occurrence.