Designing a Secure and User-Friendly Living Space
New Accessibility Standards for Australian Homes
From October 2023, new homes in Australia will be required to adhere to stricter accessibility standards, as outlined in the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 and the Queensland Development Code (QDC) 4.5 - Livable Dwellings. These standards, known as the Modern Homes requirements, aim to make homes more accessible for people with disabilities, older individuals, families with young children, and those with temporary mobility injuries.
One of the key measures included in these new standards is the requirement for at least one step-free entry to the home. Additionally, internal doors and corridors will be slightly wider to facilitate mobility, and bathrooms and showers will have step-free access. An accessible toilet will also be required, and the bathroom and toilet walls will be reinforced to allow for the later installation of handrails.
For existing homes and renovations, there are generally no mandatory accessibility upgrade standards nationally unless triggered by specific building work or major renovations subject to local building regulations or disability access requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act if commercial or public. However, when renovations are extensive and involve permits, some jurisdictions may require compliance with certain access provisions if triggered by the scale or nature of the work, but this varies by state or local government.
In the case of Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes, designed for people with high support needs, separate and stricter design requirements exist. These homes must meet the SDA Design Standard, which sets tailored accessibility and safety requirements in line with the NCC to qualify for NDIS funding. These include specialized features like automated doors, ceiling hoists, and wayfinding, focusing on safety, privacy, durability, and integrated assistive technology.
These measures are designed to improve the accessibility of housing for people with reduced mobility. Non-slip mats can improve safety in various areas of the home, including bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries. Lever-style door handles are more accessible than turning handles, and can be fitted with locks. Ramps can improve a building's accessibility for homes with a raised entrance, making it easier for people with reduced mobility or using mobility aids to enter.
Grab rails improve accessibility and safety around baths, showers, and toilets by providing a secure, easy-to-hold support to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Rail showers allow a removable hand-held showerhead to be fixed to an adjustable bracket, providing flexibility in height and angle. Reverse-cycle split systems are a safer, more energy-efficient alternative to single-room gas heaters.
The National Construction Code (NCC) Livable Housing Design Standards have been mandatory in Victoria since May 1, 2024. Tempering valves ensure that the water temperature from taps, showers, and baths never exceeds 50°C, preventing scalds. Only licensed professionals should perform home modifications that involve plumbing or electrical work.
Choosing tapware with mixer-style handles that can be moved instead of screwed is a more accessible option for people with reduced mobility. Older homes without tempering valves may pose a scald risk, particularly for people with reduced mobility or increased accessibility needs. Hand showers and rail showers are typically easier to use than traditional wall-mounted, static showerheads.
Renovating an existing property may require the building to be brought into line with the Livable Housing Design Standards, depending on the extent of the proposed alterations. Smart locks, such as smartphone, biometric, and touchscreen locks, can improve accessibility for those with limited mobility. Walk-in showers, with a shower floor that is flush with the bathroom floor, can be a beneficial accessibility modification for anyone with reduced mobility. LED light bulbs are the most cost-effective and long-lasting lights, reducing the need for ladder use for replacement.
In conclusion, new homes built after late 2023 must comply with mandatory accessibility standards under the NCC 2022 Modern Homes requirements, while for existing homes and renovations, mandatory accessibility standards are generally not enforced nationwide beyond specific cases or jurisdictions. Specialist housing for disability has separate, stricter design requirements.
- Incorporating lever-style door handles and non-slip mats into home renovations can enhance the health-and-wellness of its occupants by providing improved accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
- During home renovations, ensuring compliance with the Livable Housing Design Standards, which includes the installation of walk-in showers and smart locks, can positively impact lifestyle by enhancing accessibility and convenience for those with mobility challenges.
