When it comes to Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), tenant matching is far more than just assigning people to available rooms. It’s about creating thriving homes where residents feel safe, supported, and genuinely happy — a foundation to live life on your terms.
So, what makes great tenant matching work?
Rosters of care are at the heart of every shared SDA home. Each participant has unique support needs, daily routines, and medical requirements. Ensuring these align (or at least complement each other) is crucial for smooth day-to-day living and for providing effective, efficient care.
Common interests help build friendships and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a shared love of music, gardening, sports, or even cooking, connecting people over things they enjoy creates a more cohesive and positive household environment.
Compatible personality types can’t be overlooked. Just like in any shared living situation, some people thrive around energetic housemates, while others prefer a calm and quiet setting. Getting this right can make the difference between simply coexisting and truly thriving together.
Compassion and empathy levels also play a big role. Some residents may need more emotional support, while others may be more independent and self-sufficient. Matching tenants who can respect and understand each other’s needs fosters a culture of care and mutual respect.
Opposites attract — sometimes. While similar personalities often work well together, there are times when different traits can actually complement each other beautifully. A quieter tenant might find comfort and joy in a more outgoing housemate, creating balance in the home.
Having an open mind is essential from both participants and their families. Often, the best matches come from being willing to explore options outside the initial comfort zone, discovering new possibilities for connection and growth.
Finally, meet and greets are essential. No amount of paperwork or profiles can replace the power of meeting in person, sharing a cup of tea, and seeing if there’s that spark of connection. These visits give participants, their families, and providers a true sense of whether the match feels right. We recently had two participants who, by all logic on paper wouldn’t have been a consideration for tenant matching. The tenacity and commitment to exploring all options of one of our powerhouse Regional Tenancy Managers, even the unlikely proved to be a success. Two wholly dissimilar participants were presented an opportunity to meet and through this they found in each other exactly what they weren’t anticipating – a match that continues to flourish today.
At the end of the day, tenant matching is not just about filling vacancies — it’s about building homes where people can belong, grow, and live life on their terms.
