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Public Consultation on the Visitable and Adaptable Features in Housing Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS)
The Victorian Government has released a RIS that examines approaches to increase the supply of accessible housing in Victoria. Submissions are now being sought on the content of the RIS which proposes a Victorian variation to the Building Code of Australia (BCA).
Visit the Department of Planning and Community Development website to get a copy of the RIS and information on how to make comment. The Building Commission is running industry seminars on accessible housing to help give builders the skills they need to tap into this emerging market. Building practitioners can book to attend the seminars taking place across Victoria.
A Facts Sheet (75KB) and a Technical Information Sheet (1.66MB) has been prepared which provides more information on the proposed Victorian variation to the BCA. A range of extra accessible housing resources for building industry professionals is available at: www.buildforlife.com.au
Accessibility in the built environment
Australia's ageing population is increasing the need for access-friendly housing. As the baby-boomer generation reaches retirement age and beyond, their homes will need to adapt to meet their changing needs.
- Almost twenty percent of Australians have a long-term disability. These people and their families also need housing designed to support their needs and to enhance their lifestyle.
There is a move towards accessible designs that make a house into a home for life. Architects, designers, builders and developers are taking their cue from this shift. By blending aesthetics, accessibility and the foresight to allow for future circumstances, a home will be right regardless of the occupant's age or ability.
Accessibility in the built environment refers to homes and commercial and institutional buildings that are designed and built with these considerations in mind.
Accessible design complies with certain rules that are intended to ensure that the design is accessible for most people irrespective of ability. Several Australian Standards apply to the design of accessways, ramps, lifts, carparking, signage, sanitary facilities and other parts of buildings. If a building is designed to comply with these standards, it is expected that 80% to 90% of people will be able to use the building.
