Improving housing outcomes for people with disability: policy and practice initiatives

Housing was identified as an important element in Australia’s Disability Strategy (2021–2031); however, this is a complex area for policy makers to navigate due to the mix of federal and state government responsibilities and the diverse nature of the group being served. 

The focus of this Investigative Panel project is to identify changes to policy and practice that will improve housing outcomes for people with disability, including by providing insights into what the sector and people with a disability consider to be ‘good’ housing outcomes.

The research will address the following questions:

1. What are the circumstances and experiences of people with disability receiving housing assistance through the NDIS and without NDIS support? How does this vary by disability type? How has access changed for the different groups since the establishment of the NDIS?
2. What do stakeholder groups understand by a ’good outcome‘ with respect to housing for people with a disability? What are the shared areas and where do tensions exist?
3. How do approaches and access to housing provision vary across jurisdictions (commonalities and differences; opportunities and barriers) and what lessons do these provide for policy and practice initiatives?
4. What policy and practice changes are needed and possible to improve the housing opportunities and outcomes for all people with disability?

Using data generated through a rapid review of pertinent peer-reviewed and grey literature, focus groups and a survey, this Investigative Panel will bring together insights from academic and policy publications; people with lived experience of disability; those deeply engaged in the provision of housing and other services to people with a disability; and a group of international experts.

Lead Researcher: Professor Monica Cuskelly, University of Tasmania

Project Number: 41347