If you're interested in investing in SDA, it's important to do your research first. The SDA sector is highly specialised and tightly regulated so it's important to understand what's involved prior to investing. There's lots of useful information for investors available on the NDIS website.
It's also important to ensure you choose a reputable and experienced SDA provider to deliver and manage your property. One of the biggest risks in SDA investment is partnering with inexperienced or non-compliant providers. SDA design standards, NDIS enrolment requirements, and tenant eligibility criteria are complex, and any lack of compliance can result in delays, reduced income, or even an inability to claim SDA payments. When researching providers, look for those with a track record of delivering fully enrolled SDA homes and sourcing actual tenants.
Understanding the different SDA categories, location demand, and vacancy trends is also critical. High vacancy rates or building the wrong design category for a given area can significantly reduce returns. Investors benefit from analysing supply-and-demand data, inspecting past projects, and asking for evidence of current occupancy levels across a company’s portfolio.
Choosing a reputable SDA company or provider starts with evaluating experience and transparency. Look for organisations with a clear track record of completed, enrolled SDA homes—not just planned projects. Reputable providers should openly share details about design certifications, NDIS compliance processes, tenant matching practices, and long-term property management strategies. It’s also wise to review independent testimonials, check ASIC and ABN registration details, and verify that the company works with established builders, assessors, and support providers.
Finally, investors should prioritise companies that focus on participant outcomes rather than just financial returns. Providers who engage with support coordinators, allied health professionals, and participant networks are more likely to deliver homes that tenants actually want to live in—reducing vacancy risk and improving long-term stability.