ID: A woman laughing wearing a broad brim straw hat.

Christine remembers the fear more than anything. 

Not fear of the unknown – but fear of the everyday. 

The simple, human moments most of us take for granted had become the hardest. Standing. Moving. Reaching. Even holding her grandchildren came with a quiet, constant worry in the back of her mind: What if I fall? What if I hurt them? What if I hurt my husband trying to manage on our own? 

Before moving into Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), life had become a careful balancing act – one where the risks were growing and the support just wasn’t enough. 

Her home, though filled with love and familiarity, wasn’t built for what she needed. 

“My bathroom [was] very big,” Christine explains, “but it’s not big enough for my wheelchair or my lifter. My husband was able to help me, but not always. He’s getting older too… I had to come here so that I could get the help that I needed so that I didn’t hurt Tony.” 

It’s a reality many people face quietly – where love and care alone can’t replace the right environment, the right design, and the right level of support. 

Finding Safety, Support… and Something More 

Moving into SDA in Gawler changed things for Christine – but not in the way people sometimes assume. 

It didn’t take away her independence. 

It gave it back. 

“I’m getting the help that I need and I’m so much more relaxed… I can concentrate on getting better and building my strength up.” 

With the right supports in place, Christine’s focus shifted – from simply getting through the day, to actually living it. 

There’s something powerful about feeling safe in your own home. It creates space for everything else – healing, confidence, connection. 

And for Christine, something else returned too: hope. 

“Oh definitely… I used to be frightened to pick up my grandchildren… but now I’m quite confident in having them come visit me and sit on my lap… I can cuddle them and I can do the things that I need to do to be a great granny.” 

That confidence – the ability to be present with the people you love without fear – is what real support looks like. 

A Home That Works With You, Not Against You 

One of the biggest misconceptions about SDA is that it feels clinical or restrictive. 

Christine’s experience tells a very different story. 

“It doesn’t stop you from living your life, it helps you.” 

Her home isn’t defined by limitations – it’s shaped around possibility. 

She bakes. She uses her computer. She hosts friends. She celebrates milestones. 

“We had Christmas here and my friends came… we had the best day.” 

And when she needs support, it’s there – without hesitation. 

“There’s nothing they won’t do for you… If I get stuck… they’re right there.” 

This is what person-centred support looks like in action: an environment designed not just for access, but for living well. 

“Do It.” – Christine’s Advice 

For anyone unsure about SDA, Christine doesn’t hesitate. 

“Do it, do it. It’s a must. If you’re not sure, if you’re stumbling, if you’re falling – you have to come here and get help, because this is the place to be.” 

It’s simple. Honest. And grounded in lived experience. 

New SDA Opportunities in Tanunda 

Christine’s story is just one example of what’s possible when the right environment meets the right support. 

And now, more opportunities are becoming available. 

Three brand-new SDA homes are being developed in Tanunda, with vacancies expected from July 2026. Designed with accessibility, comfort, and independence in mind, these homes offer: 

  • Purpose-built, accessible living environments  
  • Support for participants with 1:1, 1:2 or 1:3 overnight support ratios  
  • Proximity to the heart of the Barossa – cafes, shops, community spaces, and services  
  • A setting that balances independence with the reassurance of consistent, high-quality support  

It’s important to note that while these homes are delivered in partnership with SDA provider, Metcalf Group (SA), My Ability Pathway provides the Supported Independent Living (SIL) supports – ensuring participants receive consistent, person-centred care aligned with their goals. 

More Than a House – A Pathway Forward 

SDA isn’t just about accessible housing. 

It’s about reducing risk. 
It’s about restoring confidence. 
It’s about creating the conditions where people can reconnect with what matters most. 

For Christine, that meant holding her grandchildren again without fear. 

For others, it might mean cooking independently, pursuing hobbies, or simply feeling safe enough to relax. 

Whatever the goal – the right environment makes it possible. 

Secure Your Future Home 

If you or someone you support could benefit from SDA, now is the time to explore your options. 

Secure your future home – complete an Expression of Interest. 
Conditions apply. 

Our team is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you determine whether SDA is the right fit. Let us know if you would like one of our complimentary SDA Information Packs to be sent to you. 

Because everyone deserves a home that supports not just their needs – but their life.