Matt's Story

I was living in a regular residential apartment with some modifications, like automatic doors, to help accommodate my disability but I’ve never really felt like I was living independently. Because of the unit’s set up, I was totally reliant on my family and support staff for daily assistance.

I did manage to secure approved funding from the NDIS to make more extensive renovations to my unit, like installing a ceiling hoist, automated windows and updating the bathroom and kitchen. I was faced with pretty devastating backlash and discrimination from other residents though, simply for requesting these works to be done. The uproar when I asked to have the track installed for the ceiling hoist was so unexpected, with comments about my ‘suitability’ to live in the building and concerns about the potential devaluation to other properties because of hoist installation became a really big deal. Living there basically became a nightmare for me. It was really hurtful to be fighting for the basic things that would have a huge impact on my life.

Luckily for me, I was also born into an unbelievably supportive family who refused to let me do anything but live life to fullest and supported me through extensive therapy and treatments for years. I was born 3 months early and due to complications after my birth, I was left with Severe Spastic Quadriplegia. So I’m talking serious therapy, eight hours a day, six days a week for fourteen years! That’s given me the most amazing foundation though and allowed me to reach many of my goals throughout the years.

The Ability SDA Apartments are literally a dream come true for me. Because of the extensive smart home and voice-activated technology, I now have complete control over my own environment and don’t need as much staff assistance day-to-day. I’m so excited about the accessible kitchen, so I can make myself a cup of tea whenever I want. It’s given me back the confidence I’ve lost.

Mum says she’s relieved for me to finally have a home and environment that enables me to be genuinely independent so she can take a step back and start being my mother and not my carer. 

The NDIS application process is tough – I’m not going to lie. The guys at Ability SDA and my family worked really hard to get approval and funding in place for the technology, care and housing. It was a long process. To other people in my position, I say: definitely apply, because it can only improve your life. But I also say this: expect a lot of highs and lows through the process simply due to nerves and dealing with the NDIS. Even though the process can be difficult and overwhelming, it is worth it in the end. Walking inside my apartment for the first time made the bad nerves that I had been having into very exciting and good nerves! From now on I think every time I walk through the door, I’m just going to get more and more excited about what my future looks like in this exquisite unit!