A comprehensive guide to accessible, affordable, and supportive living options
Explore OptionsChoosing the best place to live is a deeply personal decision for anyone, but for people with disabilities, it carries unique challenges and considerations. Accessibility, affordability, support services, healthcare, and community inclusion are all critical factors. Globally and within Australia, some regions have emerged as disability-friendly leaders, offering better infrastructure, social support, and opportunities for independent living.
This article explores where people with disabilities live, which cities and countries are considered the best, and the practical realities of living with disability. It also looks at how financial support, cultural attitudes, and policy frameworks shape the experience of disabled people.
The best place for a disabled person to live depends on several key factors:
Known for its healthcare system and cultural inclusion. Many suburbs have accessible public transport and community hubs.
Offers extensive healthcare facilities and advocacy organisations, though high living costs are a challenge.
Growing reputation for inclusive public spaces, lower costs compared to Sydney, and good weather for mobility.
Affordable housing and a compact city layout make it easier to navigate.
Strong community support groups and accessible infrastructure.
Globally, cities like Stockholm, Vancouver, Barcelona, and Singapore are praised for universal design and inclusion.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a UK-based payment supporting people with care and mobility needs. While not directly applicable in Australia, similar payments exist under the Disability Support Pension (DSP) and the NDIS.
In the UK, to qualify for the high rate of DLA (care or mobility components), applicants must demonstrate significant support needs in daily living and mobility. In Australia, eligibility for DSP is based on:
Documenting medical evidence, functional impact, and ongoing needs is critical to accessing higher rates of support.
Known for universal design, accessible transport, and inclusive tourism.
Almost all public buildings and transport are fully accessible.
Disability-friendly housing policies and community support.
Regularly ranked among the world's most liveable cities with strong healthcare and social supports.
People with special needs live in a wide range of settings, depending on their individual support requirements. These include:
For those able to manage daily tasks with minimal support.
Housing with on-site staff to assist with daily activities.
Group homes or care facilities for higher levels of support.
Many people with disabilities continue living with family, particularly in cultures where family support is prioritised.
The global trend is toward community-based independent living rather than institutionalisation.
Extensive welfare system, inclusive education, and accessible cities.
Strong disability benefits, universal healthcare, and employment programs.
Comprehensive disability rights laws and inclusive housing policies.
NDIS funding model and strong anti-discrimination laws.
Major investments in accessibility ahead of international events, e.g., Tokyo Olympics.
The "best" country often depends on whether the focus is healthcare, income support, accessibility, or cultural inclusion.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 1.3 billion people live with significant disability, making up about 16% of the global population.
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that:
Cost of living is a critical factor when living on a fixed income such as the Disability Support Pension.
Known as the most affordable state, with lower housing costs.
Affordable rentals, utilities, and public transport.
Lower housing and living costs compared to Brisbane.
While cheaper, these areas may have fewer specialised services compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
The best city for special needs depends on the type of disability and personal goals.
Melbourne and Sydney.
Adelaide and Hobart.
Brisbane and Melbourne.
Regional centres with strong local community support.
Globally, cities like Copenhagen, Berlin, and Seattle rank highly for accessibility and inclusivity.
"Person with disability."
"Disabled person."
Both are accepted in Australia, though preferences vary. The social model of disability supports identity-first language, while others prefer person-first to emphasise individuality.
Living with someone with a disability requires:
Recognise the person's independence and choices.
Modifications such as ramps, wider doorways, or assistive technologies.
Balance support with encouraging independence.
Discuss needs and preferences openly.
Family members, carers, or housemates should view support as a partnership rather than a one-way responsibility.
Overall, Australia is considered one of the better countries globally for people with disabilities, but gaps remain in service equity.
The best place for a person with disability to live depends on a balance of affordability, accessibility, healthcare, and social inclusion. Globally, cities like Barcelona, Vancouver, and Singapore are leading examples of inclusive design. Within Australia, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide each offer unique strengths, from healthcare excellence to affordability.
While financial support like the Disability Support Pension or NDIS helps, community support and cultural inclusion are just as vital. Ultimately, the "best" place is one where people with disability feel empowered, included, and able to live with dignity.