Angela’s search for a specialist disability home for her adult son, Nelson, began almost four years ago. The journey of navigating the housing space has been long, arduous and fraught with obstacles. With a fierce determination, Angela has fought to secure her son’s future: by finding an accessible home in Perth where he feels safe and can live comfortably in the long-term. 

Nelson, who is 23 years old, was born with Angelman syndrome – a rare genetic condition that affects the nervous system and causes severe physical and learning disabilities. Nelson’s symptoms include intellectual disability, lack of speech and some physical challenges.   

Up until the age of 19, Nelson, who is a twin, lived at home with Angela and the rest of his family. His mother was his primary carer, providing 24-hour support.  

As Nelson was becoming older, his family wanted to put long-term plans in place for Nelson: “I wanted to make sure Nelson would be okay if something happened to me – that he had a home and people caring for him,” Angela says.   

So, Angela began to look at housing options for her son. It was 2022 – several years after the NDIS had been rolled out across WA. As Nelson was eligible for Supported Independent Living (SIL), Angela worked with the NDIA to find a SIL home in Perth. This took a few months but eventually a home with 24-hour care supports in place was found for Nelson. For the first time, Nelson moved out of his family home. 

One evening, Angela stopped by the home to drop something off. She knocked on the door, and no one answered. As the key box was empty, she called the SIL provider to request the key but there was no response.  

Angela knew something was wrong. She called the police immediately and they arrived within minutes. Nelson had been left alone in the house. 

“I got Nelson out of the SIL home immediately and reported the incident to the NDIA and the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission,” Angela says.    

After leaving the SIL home in early 2023, Nelson was placed into temporary accommodation. During this time, Angela applied for SDA. While they waited for SDA funding approval, Nelson received short term accommodation funding to cover his accommodation costs.   

Over the next 18 or so months, Nelson was moved four times. 

For the first six months, Nelson lived in an SDA home (covered by short-term accommodation funding) until an incident occurred which placed Nelson at risk. Angela removed Nelson from the home and placed him into a SIL home. 

“The SIL provider agreed Nelson could bring his own supports and transition to their supports once safe and comfortable for Nelson to do so,” Angela says, explaining that it normally takes Nelson at least three months to adjust to new people delivering supports. 

“But after six nights, the SIL provider told me that unless they are providing all of Nelson’s supports, he will need to move out within 24 hours.” 

Angela removed Nelson immediately from the home and lodged a complaint against the SIL provider to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. 

Nelson now needed immediate accommodation.

Accommodation was arranged at an accessible serviced apartment: he remained in the first one for two months and moved to another one (offering a longer lease) for 12 months until he was hospitalized and was unable to return; the accommodation was no longer suitable. 

Nelson remained in hospital for a month, at which time his SDA funding was approved. After working with the NDIA and SDA providers, Angela finally found a home for her son. 

Nelson was released from hospital and moved into the property in late 2024. Nelson who is unable to share a home, lived on his own. 

Nelson lived next door to an SDA resident who also lived alone.

After a few months, Angela discovered that this was not an ideal living situation for her son. “The neighbour would have lots of parties, play loud music, there was drug use and the police were constantly at the house,” Angela says. 

Angela was worried about the ongoing problems this situation could cause including the possibility of Nelson’s support staff quitting: “If staff feel threatened or unsafe with what is happening next door especially with the police turning up at all hours, they may not want to go to work.”  

Angela decided her son had to move to a new home.

This meant another upheaval for Nelson. 

In 2025, Angela’s Support Coordinator introduced her to Nesti Housing, an SDA housing provider and member of the SDA Alliance.

Right from the start, Angela felt reassured by Nesti’s efficient and methodical approach. “Nesti staff arranged several meetings with me and Nelson. They asked for documents such as Nelson’s behavioural support plans and allied health reports so they could obtain a detailed understanding of his needs. Nesti’s staff asked a lot of questions and were careful to ensure Nelson was a suitable match for the property and that he had appropriate care supports in place.” 

A few weeks later, Nesti’s Housing Engagement team offered Nelson a two-bedroom fully accessible home. Despite it being a two-bedroom home, the owner of the property was open to renting it to Nelson as a single occupant as they understood Nelson is unable to live in a share home. 

The location was ideal: a twenty-minute drive from the city. Location was an important consideration – mainly as it plays a considerable role in ensuring continuity of services. Angela wanted to ensure Nelson’s support team did not have an unreasonable commute to get to work. Nelson is supported by a team of 5-6 individuals per day (including an active overnight shift). 

For Nelson, adjusting to new support workers can be very stressful and challenging.

“Nelson is nonverbal and his condition is complex – this can make if challenging for people to understand how to best support him,” Angela explains. “We need to teach his carers how to support him in the way he likes, and it takes time to do that.” 

As the SDA property was already built, Angela did not have the opportunity to participate in the design and construction process of the home. However, Nesti offered the opportunity for Angela to inspect the property and request modifications that were required for Nelson to ensure his safety and comfort prior to him moving into his new home.

“Nesti sorted out the modifications we needed promptly,” Angela says.

Angela explains that Nelson’s home not only offers long term housing stability but exposes him to far less risk as his living environment is set up to meet his needs.

“Nelson’s bedroom is large enough to accommodate his specialist bed, and the bathroom is safe for him to use. The rooms are sufficiently sized so multiple staff can deliver services. The home has a double garage which fits his van which means Nelson is protected from the elements when being transferred from the car to the home – this is important as Nelson has a history of respiratory dysfunction which can make breathing difficult,” Angela explains. 

Angela smiles as she explains that one of Nelson’s greatest joys is gazing out the widow and watching the world outside. His home has ample windows, designed at the right height, so he can spend time looking out the window each day.

“After all the obstacles, I know this will be his forever home,” Angela says confidently. 

When it comes to quality services for her son, Angela looks for great staff.

Nelson now has a professional and skilled team delivering a range of care supports, however Angela says this was not always the case: “The current team is fabulous – but to reach this point you need to discern what is good and what is not so good. Nelson has an intellectual disability and is non-verbal so it can be really challenging for staff to work out what he needs and wants. I want care staff that are engaged and interested, rather than those who just rock up for their shift and don’t care.”

Staff who are appropriately trained and capable of responding to incidences which may occur on any given day is critical for Nelson’s safety.  

Anegla also talks about the importance of staff having a deep understanding of the NDIS system – as this can have an impact on whether her son receives an NDIS Plan that meets his needs: “As the NDIA need to understand exactly what Nelson’s support needs are, I need to make sure his support team document everything accurately otherwise Nelson may not receive what he needs from his NDIS Plan. I cannot express how important it is to stay on top of everything to make sure everything works.”

Angela, who is Nelson’s advocate, talks about the skills required to manoeuvre the complexity of the NDIS including plan reviews: “Nelson’s annual plan review is never a straightforward process: you need to be able to call things out that aren’t right and not settle for second best.”

For Angela, communication is also a key determinate of quality services: “There will always be issues so the commitment of a provider to discuss and address issues is critical. Nesti is a good example as the communication between me and Nesti staff is clear, transparent and frequent.” 

Comprehensive service agreements which are fair and transparent are also an important aspect of delivering quality services, Angela explains: “Service agreements outline expectations and ensure accountability. When I have experienced frustrations in the past with service providers not doing what they should be doing, the service agreement was useful to hold them to account.” 

For Angela, SDA has improved Nelson’s quality of life – something he would not have experienced in any other kind of accommodation. 

“Nelson is a lovely, loving young man,” Angela says smiling. “And while the system is not perfect, I am grateful to be living in a country where the NDIS exists and where my son is supported.” 

Story written by Toni Palombi and originally published by SDA Alliance.

After 30 years in the public sector, Jacqui would be forgiven for trading her office chair for a beach recliner and reflecting on her distinguished career as the waves roll in. 

But – in leadership, and in life – that’s not who Jacqui is.

Instead, she has taken the reins as Nesti’s Managing Director. A pivot inspired by the people and purpose that Nesti Housing encompasses. 

First Impressions

Q. If you had to describe your first few months – in just three words – what would they be, and why?

A. Welcomed; lighter; excited. 

The team at Nesti have been incredibly warm and welcoming and I already feel part of the Nesti family, like I have come home. I feel lighter because this role gives me more freedom to be creative and innovative, and with that comes the excitement about the possibilities and opportunities.   

Q.  Has there been a moment where you thought, “Yes, this is exactly why I took this role”?

A. Yes – there have been several times since I started where I have thought that. I have always been a systems thinker and problem solver and this role has allowed me to consider how the different components of Nesti can work together, along with our partners within PeopleKind Group, and really think outside the box in terms of how we address the current housing challenge. 

People Power

Q.  What’s been your favourite conversation so far – the one that stuck with you after it ended?

A. My first site visit to an SDA property in High Wycombe was inspiring and there were a number of conversations during the visit that have stayed with me.

Speaking with the parents, support coordinator, developers, and our Housing Engagement team, it really got me thinking about how we can support families to provide a safe and supported home for young adults transitioning to independence. As a registered SDA provider and licensed real estate agency we are well placed to connect with relevant stakeholders and work with families to create a community. A community where young people can be supported to live independently and thrive, while also providing families with peace of mind.

Q. What have you learned about the people here that doesn’t show up on an org chart?

A. Without exception, the passion that the Nesti team has shines through. The desire to make a positive difference is genuine, in the support of our tenants and families, and collaborative work with our chosen partners.

Q. What’s one small ritual or habit you’ve already picked up since joining? 

A. Chatting with the team, sharing updates and whereabouts, and the occasional meme on the Nesti Water Cooler.

Fresh Eyes

Q. Looking at the business with fresh eyes, what feels most full of potential right now? 

A. With my previous experience at the Department of Communities, there is real potential to identify opportunities and work with families, developers, and service providers to support people to access the right home for them. We know that great homes, in ideal locations, can create a community and have a life changing impact.

Q. What’s one thing you’ve spotted that will benefit from your experience? 

A. Nesti is a young organisation that has a proud history. With origins that have always put people at the heart of what we do, we provide opportunities for safe and secure homes. It is important for me to continue to build on this strong foundation of people, processes, and housing solutions. My aim is to strengthen and grow the four departments of Nesti, while building on the collaborative partnerships we have with likeminded organisations.

Q. What’s been the biggest learning curve in your first month? 

A. While I have a background in housing, I have had limited exposure to the operations of traditional real estate and Specialist Disability Accommodation. So, that has been a big learning curve for me. Learning the jargon and acronyms is always a challenge in a new job. And as this is my first role with a not-for-profit organisation, I’m still wrapping my head around all the salary packaging benefits.

Looking Ahead

Q. Without giving too much away, what excites you most about what’s ahead?

A. Nesti is in a unique position to provide housing solutions and maintenance services to empower vulnerable people, and to collaborate with others to achieve that. The combination of the Nesti Realty business, Community Housing, Specialist Disability Accommodation, and Maintenance team, provides an exciting value proposition that has the potential to be a game changer. We can respond to the housing crisis and deliver tangible benefits for those that need it most.

Q. What would success look like one year on, not just for the business, but for the people?

A. Success one year on means achieving sustainable growth and a strong and recognisable brand, while fostering a healthy, skilled, and engaged Nesti team. We want to continue uplifting our positive culture – where people feel valued, balanced, and personally fulfilled in their roles.

A Personal Flourish

Q. We noticed that you love a meeting agenda. What’s one thing in your personal calendar that is a non-negotiable?

A. Getting to Pilates or Yoga most days each week. Exercising keeps me strong and focused and helps me maintain a positive mindset. I also make sure I get to the beach most Sunday mornings for a swim.

My daughter graduates from university next year, so we are planning a trip for Christmas in 2027 to celebrate.

Q. Is there a book, podcast, or show you’ve been enjoying lately?

A. I am currently listening to The Diary of a CEO – The 33 Laws of Business and Life by Steven Bartlett. He is very practical and down-to-earth, and much of what he shares is applicable and relevant. 

I’ve also just finished watching ‘The Beast in Me’ on Netflix which was a good, thought-provoking psychological thriller.

Q. If your first month had a soundtrack, what song would be on repeat?

Can I pick two? To represent my first month, it would have to be “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen and Tom Petty’s “Learning to Fly”.

Best on ground

For the Nesti Team, the best things in the life are when we are free. Free to step away from our desks and out into community. As we hung the green curtains and straightened our vacancy flyers – we we’re ready to talk to absolutely everyone that walked through the doors of Developing Australian Communities Expo. 

Now that the goodie bags have been handed out and the event has wrapped up – here is a recap of our thoughts and the themes we heard the most during our time at the Perth Convention Centre. 

It’s what we’ve always known and fought for. So, it was reassuring to be reminded. That time and time again – building a rich and fulfilling life begins with access to a great home. Stories were told of social connections, employment opportunities, and wish list holidays that all stemmed from the keys to a safe and secure home. A pertinent reminder of not just what we do, but why we do it.

The days of a cookie-cutter approach to Specialist Disability Accommodation are long gone, and it’s a movement that is being led – not by providers – but by participants and their families actively knowing what they want in a new home. We spoke to many families at different ends of exploration into custom housing solutions. Some just dipping their toes into the market or looking to modify their existing homes, and others who were already settled into SDA, wanting to share the positive outcomes they’d experienced.

The common thread? Inclusive homes that meet individual needs will always be in-demand and on trend.

Even in times of uncertainty in the housing sector, we can be certain of one thing. If you put people at the heart of what you do – you won’t be alone in your mission. To be surrounded by some many other providers – more like colleagues than competitors – reminded us that the journey to provide people with better opportunities is a collective one.

Ok, so maybe a slight humble brag.  But to be recognised, greeted with a wave, and have our name known by attendees was really meaningful to our team. We’re working hard, sticking to our values, and surrounding ourselves with impactful partners. As our reputation continues to grow, it’s nice to know we’re making a difference in the homes that are available to Western Australian’s. That’s what it’s all about. Until next year, when we’ll see you again at Booth #G13.

Flipping the script

In a real estate market dominated by rising prices and profit margins, one Perth agency is flipping the script, offering a values-driven alternative where every property transaction helps build a better future.

Nesti Realty is a first-of-its-kind, profit-for-purpose real estate agency right here in Perth, where every sale or lease helps fund much-needed social and community housing across WA.

Launched just 18 months ago, it’s the brainchild of the team behind Nesti Housing, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to addressing WA’s housing crisis. Backed by a combined 100+ years of experience in the property sector, the Nesti Realty team isn’t just helping people buy and sell homes – they’re helping others find them too.

The dream? To scale up this model and offer homes to even more people in need across the state.

Pam, a seasoned Perth real estate expert of over 30 years, is the first to admit the industry hasn’t always had the best reputation. But she’s on a mission to change that.

And in a state grappling with population growth and a critical housing shortage, the timing couldn’t be better.

“We’re the fastest growing state in the country. The demand is there – but traditional models alone aren’t keeping up,” she adds. “That’s where we come in.”

If you’re a property owner or investor, Nesti offers more than just warm fuzzies. Their team combines deep industry knowledge with affordable pricing, and thanks to their charity status, they can pass on discounts in areas like marketing. “Clients love that they’re working with long-established agents and helping others at the same time,” says Pam. “It’s a win-win.”

The team at Nesti knows this model has the potential to reshape real estate in WA. But to grow, they need more locals to jump on board. “We know West Aussies care about their communities,” Pam says. “If you’re values-driven and looking for something better, we’re here.”

Whether you’re ready to list a property or just curious to learn more, they’re inviting you to grab a coffee and discover how real estate can do more.

This article was original published by Perth is OK.