The need to ensure access for people of all abilities including Australia’s rapidly growing ageing population necessitates the adoption of legislated uniform standards for accessible public and private housing which take into account the occupants’ needs that may change across their life span. Currently, the demand for visitable, adaptable or accessible housing far exceeds supply.
The Institute supports the efforts already being made by Federal, State and Local Government bodies and the community to eliminate barriers to accessibility in the built environment, in accordance with the human rights declarations to which Australia is a signatory.
The Institute supports the adoption of a Disability Standards on Access to Premises that incorporates the 90th percentile of wheelchair sizes and users in accordance with the intent of the DDA92.
The Institute encourages the inclusion of housing accessibility provisions in planning schemes.