Fees & funding

Fees & funding

Our vow to give everyone maximum choice and control always comes first. That includes being transparent about our fees. Totally open about where funding goes. And honest about the cost of a tenancy with us. After all, trust is the foundation of any good home.

Living in SDA with Nesti requires a suitable level of funding. This level will depend on a range of factors, like the design, type, and location of your home.  These funds are claimed monthly from your NDIS Plan.

It’s super important to ensure your plan has the correct funding at all times. If any changes happen – let us know – so we can work with you and your Support Coordinator. Safeguarding your tenancy will always be our top priority.

In SDA, tenants are responsible for paying a rental contribution known as the Maximum Reasonable Rent Contribution (MRRC). This contribution is calculated according to the NDIS Pricing Arrangements, and includes:

• 25% of the Maximum Base Rate of the Adult Disability Support Pension
• 25% pension supplement
• 100% of the Maximum Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA)

Funding for our Community Housing programs works differently to SDA. Before receiving the keys to your property, there are a few vital steps we’ll take with you to work out what you’ll be paying.

You will be asked about your income details so that your rent can be set. Rents are set at 25% of your pension plus Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA). You may choose to sign an Authorisation Form, which allows us to speak directly with Centrelink about your income and any rental assistance payment you may receive.

If you currently receive a Centrelink benefit, you are eligible to receive Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA). It is important that you claim your CRA Entitlement, as your rent charges from Nesti are based on you receiving this. Need a hand? Speak to a dedicated Property Officer at Nesti for help.

Though Centrepay is our preferred way for you to make your rent payments, we’ve several options available:

1. Centrepay deductions: If you receive Centrelink benefits, you have the option to arrange for your rent to be paid directly to Nesti from Centrelink. If this is your preferred payment method, our team can assist you in setting this up.
2. Direct debit: You have the option of arranging automatic payments from your online bank account to Nesti. Or you can make rental payments, in person, at your bank.
3. Online banking: You also have the option to process rent payments directly from your online bank account.

This is the amount you’ll pay at the start of your tenancy and is held by the State Government Bond Administrator, not Nesti. This is to cover any costs you might be liable for at the end of your tenancy, such as property damage, outstanding water charges, or unpaid rent.

Bond is calculated at 4 weeks rent. If you need, government assistance is available to help pay your bond, and it will be returned at the end of your tenancy if all your accounts settled.

We’re pet lovers, and understand you may want to bring a companion with you to your new home. If so, you need to tell us before moving into a property to make sure the home is suitable, especially if you will be living in a shared home. You’ll also be required to pay a ‘pet bond’. This money is held by the State Government Bond Administrator, not Nesti.

During your time in a Nesti home, you’ll be responsible for paying for utilities like electricity, gas, and internet. In an SDA home shared with others, your SIL Provider may set up and manage these bills for everyone in the home. In these cases, it’s important to discuss with your SIL provider to understand how costs for board and lodgings are divided among tenants.

Top tip: If you have a concession card, you may qualify for discounts on various utility expenses.