theguardian.com
SDA Investment Warnings
Misleading investment advertisements in disability housing raise concerns about consumer law breaches and financial risks for investors. High vacancy rates and inaccurate return promises are highlighted.
English
United Kingdom
HealthInvestmentFraudHousingDisabilityRisk
National Disability Insurance Scheme (Ndis)Summer FoundationAustralian Competition And Consumer Commission (Accc)Australian Securities And Investment Commission (Asic)
- What advice is given to potential investors in SDA properties?
- Investors are urged to exercise extreme caution and perform thorough due diligence before investing in SDA properties. The high vacancy rates and misleading marketing practices present substantial risks.
- What is the response of the ACCC and ASIC to the misleading claims?
- The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) acknowledges that misleading representations about guaranteed returns in SDA investments may violate consumer law, while ASIC advises caution against investments promoted as 'government-backed'.
- What is the main concern regarding investments in disability housing?
- The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides significant funding for specialist disability accommodation (SDA), attracting investors. However, misleading advertisements promising high returns are prevalent, causing concern among industry insiders.
- What types of misleading claims are being made about SDA investments?
- Industry experts warn that agents are making unrealistic promises about SDA investments, potentially breaching consumer law. These misleading claims, often appearing on social media, promote high returns and government backing that are not always accurate.
- What are the findings of the Summer Foundation's survey on SDA vacancy rates?
- The Summer Foundation's survey revealed that 25% of newly built SDA properties are vacant, highlighting significant financial risks for providers. Delays in filling vacancies are common, contradicting claims of guaranteed tenancy.