Episode 1.12 Reframing the role of inclusive housing in Australia’s traditional housing system with Nicole Makin-Doherty

<p>Before recording this Episode 12, I read a story about a man who had been given a bath all his life and was finally able to take his first independent shower after moving into an accessible home.</p><p>That moment captures my conversation with <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/nicolemakindoherty" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Nicole Makin-Doherty</a>, CEO and Managing Director of <a href="https://empoweredliveability.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Empowered Liveability</a>, about accessible housing, Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and why so many Australians are still locked out of homes that meet their needs.</p><p><br></p><p>Key questions explored:</p><ul><li>Why do only 5% of new homes meet basic accessibility standards?</li><li>Why are more than 40% of SDA rooms unoccupied while people are still searching for housing?</li><li>What do investors misunderstand about SDA and NDIS funding?</li><li>How can inclusive design support disability, recovery and ageing in place?</li><li>Could the crossover between SDA and social housing help more people access suitable homes?</li></ul><p><br></p><p>The discussion also considers physical, sensory, financial and community access, and why designing for inclusion can support greater independence, connection and dignity.</p><p>#AccessibleHousing #SDA #NDIS #AgeingInPlace #UniversalDesign</p>