Ballarat Open Day & SDA Information Sessions

Join us for a special community day celebrating our brand-new home in Ballarat and discover everything you need to know about Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). 

Throughout the day, we’ll host four interactive information sessions designed to help families, carers and participants better understand SDA — what it is, how it works and how it can support a more independent life. 

Guests will also enjoy light catering, community connection and the chance to go in the draw to win a $100 prize just for attending. 

🕓 Event Schedule 

10:30am – 11:30am 

Session 1: Understanding SDA – What It Is and How It Works 
For: Families new to SDA or exploring options for the first time. 
Focus: 

• What SDA means under the NDIS 

• The difference between SDA and support services 

• Who is eligible and how to apply 

• What to expect in an SDA home — design, support and independence 

• Real-life stories from Guardian Living tenants 

11:30pm – 12:30pm 
Session 2: Making the Move – Preparing for Independence and Peace of Mind 

For: Parents and carers of adults with disabilities who are moving out of home. 
Focus: 

• Practical and emotional steps for transitioning to independent living 

• How to find the right provider and home environment 

• Building a support network and staying connected 

• Insights from families who’ve made the move 

1:00pm – 2.00pm 

Session 3: Living Your Best Life with Quality Support 
For: People wanting to understand the supports available in SDA homes and their local community. 
Focus: 

• What supports are available in an SDA home 

• Local community support options 

• What defines “quality supports” and why the Melba Way works 

2:00pm-3:00pm 

Session 4: A New Way to Live – From Legacy Housing to Modern SDA 

For: People currently living in older group homes or institutional settings, and their families or support coordinators, who want to understand the benefits of modern SDA. 

Focus: 

• What’s different about modern SDA — design, privacy, accessibility, and choice 

• How SDA supports greater independence and quality of life 

• Practical steps for transitioning from legacy housing to SDA 

• Real stories from people who’ve made the move 

Who Should Attend 

• People with disability, families and carers 

• Local community members 

• Support coordinators and service providers 

• Guardian Living and Melba staff and partners 

Additional Details 

• Light catering provided 

• Accessible venue 

• Community celebration with ribbon-cutting ceremony 

• Go in the draw to win a $100 prize 

Come along to connect, learn, and celebrate what quality SDA living can offer.