General News
22 June, 2023
Specialist housing for Mareeba
Flexichoice Mareeba and construction company MiHaven have joined forces to alleviate housing pressures for hundreds of individuals with high physical support needs through their recent housing project.
Flexichoice Mareeba and construction company MiHaven have joined forces to alleviate housing pressures for hundreds of individuals with high physical support needs through their recent housing project.
Since the partnership began, two properties on Mason Street and Seary Drive have begun construction to meet the unique needs of each participant with high physical support needs under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), making it easier for them to find suitable rental homes.
FlexiChoice’s Chief Operating Officer Maribel Peckham said each Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is designed with the participant’s specific needs in mind, providing high-quality, accessible, and well-designed housing in Mareeba.
“These homes are purpose-built for individuals with high physical support needs, ensuring dignity and a good quality of life for the residents,’ she said.
“If there is a demand for more housing once these houses are occupied, MiHaven may potentially build additional properties to meet the demand.
“This benefits not only the participants but also the larger Mareeba community.”
Ms Peckham encourages families who may be supporting someone with high physical support needs to explore the MiHaven housing option, assuring them that they will receive assistance and support throughout the entire process.
Participants can live independently in a space designed specifically for their needs and also access support services, including a support coordinator funded through the capacity building area of their NDIS plan.
SDA housing also helps prevent young people from being placed in aged care homes by allowing them to receive the necessary support while living independently in their own homes.
“Participants require approval from the NDIS for both SDA and SILS (Supported Independent Living) funding,” Ms Peckham said.
“FlexiChoice, as a community-minded not-for-profit organisation, is happy to provide assistance throughout the process.
“We have a support coordinator who can help with linking participants to allied health services and completing the required documents. FlexiChoice is willing to assist at no cost if the participant does not have existing NDIS funding.”
The Mason Street house is scheduled for completion at the end of June, while the Seary Drive property will be completed in July.
Both houses are equipped with modern ovens, sinks, benchtops, and dishwashers and washing machines and dryers positioned at a height accessible for individuals using wheelchairs.
FlexiChoice will host a morning tea this Wednesday 28 June, to discuss the upcoming homes and provide information about the NDIS process at their Mason Street property.
Ms Peckham invites anyone interested to attend the event, explore the accommodation, and openly discuss the project. To RSVP, email office@flexichoice.org.au or call 4092 2332.
