The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has welcomed the adoption of mandatory accessibility standards in the National Construction Code.
The new mandatory standards, which come into effect next year, were agreed upon at the National Meeting of Building Ministers, in response to Victoria’s advocacy.
Chief Executive of VBA, Sue Eddy said accessible housing was something that should be available to everyone.
“This is a much-needed step forward both in Victoria and nationwide, allowing consumers a greater choice of where they live and easier access to support within buildings,” Ms Eddy said.
“Accessibility in the built environment means designing and building homes, and commercial buildings that are suitable for any occupant, regardless of their age or ability – this will now be compulsory,” she said.
“It also gives those living with a disability the independence they want and deserve in their own home – allowing them to do things that we all take for granted.”
Ms Eddy said that under the changes, new homes would be required to include features such as step free entry; step free showers; ground level accessible toilets; structural reinforcements to support grab rail installation in bathrooms; and transitional spaces to allow ease of movement.
She said the reforms were expected to increase the availability of homes with accessibility features to 50 per cent of Australia’s total housing stock by 2050.
Prior to the National Meeting, Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne urged all States and Territories to put fairness first and consider the dignity of older Australians and people living with disabilities by supporting the mandatory accessibility standards.
Mr Wynn said the State supported the adoption of the Liveable Housing Design Guidelines (LHDG) Silver standard to ensure basic accessibility features were included in all newly constructed homes and apartments.
