Architectural news & editorial desk
Upon agreement of mandatory accessibility standards in the National Construction Code, the Victorian Building Authority has welcomed the changes, saying it will ensure independence for people with disabilities within their own home.
The new standards will take effect in 2022, and were agreed upon at a National Building Ministers Meeting of Building Ministers last Friday. The Livable Housing Design Guidelines silver standards will ensure basic accessibility features are included in all newly constructed homes and apartments.
Under the changes, new homes will 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 for doorways and transitional spaces to allow ease of movement.