I had the chance to check out another fresh new addition to the MediStays portfolio, this time in Sunshine! And let me tell you, it’s so good to see more accommodation options becoming available for people with different access needs, especially in locations like Melbourne’s west, where choices can be more limited.
What makes this one stand out even more?
It’s super close to Western Health – Sunshine Hospital, which is a game changer. Whether you’re being discharged after a hospital stay, need some temporary accommodation during modifications to yourhome, or are seeking a permanent accessible home, this apartment takes the pressure off.
Every visit like this reminds me just how important it is to have real choice. Not every person or situation is the same. Some need space for equipment, others value privacy or independence; and this apartment ticks so many of those boxes.
Located in a modern, secure building, it features swipe entry and lift access to level two, where the apartment is situated. It’s purposefully designed with both Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in mind, making it a great option for various life stages and needs.
Inside, I was really impressed by the spacious, open-plan layout. It flows easily from the kitchen to the living area and out to a generously sized balcony. That balcony has a flat threshold – a seemingly small detail, but one that makes a huge difference when you’re using mobility aids. You can roll straight outside and enjoy some fresh air and sunlight without worrying about awkward bumps or barriers.
The apartment is fully self-contained and thoughtfully furnished. You just need to bring your own personal items – everything else is set up and ready to go. And if you need any specific equipment or assistive tech, MediStays can help arrange it before your stay. It’s those little things like the preparation, the foresight, that turn a space from “technically accessible” into somewhere that genuinely works for you.
A few things that really stood out for me:
- Height-adjusted kitchen benches and appliances – these are brilliant if you use a mobility aid or wheelchair and want to cook independently. It’s all about staying confident and comfortable
- during your stay.
- A large balcony with a flat doorway threshold – that smooth indoor-outdoor connection just makes life easier. You’re not stuck indoors and can move freely throughout the space.
- Lots of circulation space beside the bed – more than I’ve seen in many places. It’s wide, open, and easy to navigate whether you use a walker, wheelchair, or scooter.
Final Thoughts
The entire apartment is step free, and from the moment I arrived, it just felt easy. It’s refreshing to walk (or roll!) into a space and know you don’t need to constantly problem solve access.
This apartment is a fantastic option if you’re:
- transitioning out of hospital
- waiting on SDA approval
- undergoing modifications at home
- or simply in need of a safe, supported, accessible place to call home
It’s also close to public transport and local amenities, which makes a big difference if you don’t drive or rely on others to get around. That freedom to come and go with confidence really matters.
Learn more about Sunshine NDIS MTA Accessible Apartment
Accessibility Assessment Checklist
General Accessibility
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Smooth, step-free entrance | ✓ |
| Automated door with swipe card access | ✓ |
| Secure lift access to level 2 | ✓ |
| Wide doorways throughout | ✓ |
| Open layout design | ✓ |
| Smooth flooring throughout | ✓ |
| Accessible property entrance | ✓ |
| Fully wheelchair accessible (SDA Fully Accessible category) | ✓ |
| Accessible carpark | ✓ |
| Step-free throughout apartment | ✓ |
Bathroom Accessibility
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Large roll-in shower | ✓ |
| Privacy curtain in shower | ✓ |
| Pull-down grab rail beside toilet | ✓ |
| Generous turning space for mobility aids | ✓ |
| Height adjusted vanity | ✓ |
| Raised toilet | ✓ |
| Space for personal shower chair | ✓ |
| Spacious accessible bathroom | ✓ |
Room Amenities
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Fully self-contained apartment | ✓ |
| Private accommodation | ✓ |
| Air-conditioning | ✓ |
| Heating | ✓ |
| Television | ✓ |
| Step-free balcony access | ✓ |
| Large balcony with flat threshold | ✓ |
| Opening windows | ✓ |
| Lots of circulation space beside bed | ✓ |
| Private laundry facilities | ✓ |
Kitchen & Living
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Height-adjusted kitchen benches | ✓ |
| Height-adjusted appliances | ✓ |
| Under bench space for seated use | ✓ |
| Microwave at accessible height | ✓ |
| Oven at accessible height | ✓ |
| Fridge at accessible height | ✓ |
| Easy access drawers | ✓ |
| Accessible power points | ✓ |
| Full kitchen facilities | ✓ |
| Open-plan living area | ✓ |
| Spacious layout with easy flow | ✓ |
Property Location & Features
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Located in Sunshine, Melbourne’s west | ✓ |
| 2km from Western Health – Sunshine Hospital | ✓ |
| Close to major shopping centre | ✓ |
| Nearby pharmacy | ✓ |
| Proximity to Sunshine leisure centre with gym and pool | ✓ |
| Close to public transport | ✓ |
| Level 2 apartment in modern building | ✓ |
| Secure building with swipe entry | ✓ |
Accommodation Types
| Type | Available |
|---|---|
| Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) | ✓ |
| Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) eligible | ✓ |
| Suitable for hospital discharge transitions | ✓ |
| Temporary stay during home modifications | ✓ |
| Option for longer-term accessible housing | ✓ |
| Brand new property | ✓ |
Support Options
| Service | Available |
|---|---|
| Bring your own supports | ✓ |
| Request MediStays supports | ✓ |
| Assistive technology arrangement available | ✓ |
| Care Navigator support | ✓ |
| Fully furnished – bring personal items only | ✓ |
| Pre-arrival setup assistance | ✓ |
Additional Features
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Animals: registered service animals only | ✓ |
| Onsite accessible carparking | ✓ |
| No meals included (self-catering) | ✓ |
| Purpose-built for accessibility | ✓ |
| Smooth indoor-outdoor connection | ✓ |
Meet Ashlee Dolby
Ashlee Dolby serves as MediStays’ Accessibility Assessment Reviewer, bringing unique insights to this crucial role. Living with Friedreich’s Ataxia, Ashlee is a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. Her experience in the hospitality sector and work with Able Foods enriches her understanding of accessibility needs. Ashlee’s dedication to improving accommodation standards aligns perfectly with MediStays’ mission to ensure all guests find suitable lodging for their specific requirements. You can also find more about Ashlee Dolby on MediStays blog and the NDIS website.
1300 085 036