The Traralgon Specialist Disability Accommodation Project by Leben Homes
In the heart of Traralgon, Leben Homes is making headway on a unique project. The Traralgon Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), in collaboration with Inhab and Disability Connect Victoria, is the latest development from Leben Homes. It’s more than just bricks and mortar; it's a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity for NDIS participants.
The inception of the Traralgon SDA project took a unique path with the design and development driven by the needs of a specific NDIS participant, Danny McGrane from Leben Homes explains.
"SDA is always evolving. Traralgon was designed and developed to align with the specific needs of tenants," he said.
Addressing Critical Needs in Disability Housing
The shift in approach is an attempt to address critical needs in disability housing: across regional Australia, NDIS participants face a significant challenge in finding suitable accommodation.
"It’s happening all over regional Australia," Danny explains. "Participants can't find suitable accommodation, so they get stuck in hospitals for months, sometimes years. Responding to this demand is necessary to ensure a progressive future for disability housing," he said.
Specialised Features Designed to Meet NDIS Participants’ Needs
Going beyond minimum requirements, the Traralgon SDA project required a bespoke design which was achieved in collaboration with the occupational therapists at Latrobe Regional Health. One key consideration was workplace safety and supporting the care team to provide complex care in a suitable environment. Additional specialised features were incorporated to best support participants’ individual needs.
While designed to meet Specialist Disability Accommodation design standards for High Physical Support, it also incorporates specialised features to cater to Bariatric participants.
“The minimum design standards for High Physical Support SDA don't account for mobility equipment designed for bariatric participants. Larger circulation space and access ways is a key feature of the Traralgon SDA,” Danny explains.
Leben Homes envisions creating more housing specifically tailored to individual NDIS participants' needs in the future.
“We can see this as being a big part of our model going forward,” Danny says. “It benefits everyone from the individual moving in to the state governments responsible for reducing bed block in hospitals nationwide.”
The Leben Homes Community-Centric Approach
Just like all other Leben Homes developments, the Traralgon disability acommodation is strategically located within easy reach of essential amenities. From retail outlets to medical facilities and community centres, residents will find everything they need within arm's reach, fostering a sense of connection.
Since late 2023, the Traralgon SDA project has been steadily progressing. As of now, the frame is up, and external cladding works have commenced. The Leben Homes team anticipates completion by Spring 2024.
Leben Homes remains committed to its mission of creating inclusive spaces that empower individuals and enrich communities with properties located around Australia. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project progresses. You can get in contact with our team members directly to learn more.
