ABC News has reported on the Summer Foundation’s latest research that explores the views of building and design sector professionals when integrating accessible design standards into new housing.
Disability advocates say standardised national accessibility standards are crucial, with many people living with disability forced to live in inappropriate situations because of a lack of accessible housing.
“The features we’re talking about are not a big ask, and we’ll just end up with better quality housing that is future-proof,” Summer Foundation CEO Dr Di Winkler told ABC News.
The key features in the mandatory design standards include level access entryways, a step-free entry to the home, a step-free shower recess, wall reinforcement around the toilet for future grab rail installation, stairways designed to reduce the likelihood of injury and enable future adaptation, wider door frames and halls, and a toilet on the ground level.
The research found that the sector is optimistic about implementing accessible designs, but requires more training for builders and architects from peak representative bodies. Industry members need to be supported by peak bodies with the changes and the distribution of consistent resources and practical guidance.
The Disability Royal Commission and the recent NDIS Review recommended the NSW and WA governments sign up immediately to the standards (see LinkedIn post).
The Building Better Homes campaign needs your help to encourage the NSW and WA governments to sign up to mandatory accessibility standards for new homes.