A building design standard to ensure all new houses are accessible for people with disability could future-proof the nation's housing stock. But not every state is onboard.
Disability support advocates say national accessibility design standards will also help to future-proof housing for the ageing population.There are calls for NSW and WA to join the other states and territories in agreeing to meet accessible design standards for new homes.
The code specifies seven minimum standards to ensure all new homes are accessible with modifications including step-free entrances and showers and wider doors and corridors that can accommodate wheelchairs and walking aids. "One choice would be to go into segregated housing or group homes, which is very undesirable," she said.Dr Galbally said most people would prefer to live in their own homes in the community, which was why nationally consistent accessibility standards were crucial.Sydney woman V Samuela knows how hard it is to find suitable accommodation when you are living with disability.
After another year or so, she moved into her house near Campbelltown, in Sydney's south-west, which met most of her accessibility needs."I found myself doing big circles in the living room. That was quite a liberating feeling." In a statement, the WA government said its decision not to sign up to the accessible design building code came after consultation with industry and stakeholders.
For her, visiting family and friends had been "almost impossible", as their homes were largely inaccessible.She said she also felt "embarrassed" and anxious about scratching doorways or leaving marks on the wall from her wheelchair. Xuan bought a $6,000 apartment in an old Chinese city so she could 'lie flat' and escape the rat race
Ageing Aged Care Housing Housing Policy Summer Foundation Di Winkler Building Codes Ndis Rhonda Galbally Disability Royal Commissioner Livable Housing Design Standard National Construction Code
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