Read time: 1 minute
The Access design guide provides guidance notes on best practice accessible design, accessible fit out for which building approval is not required and on some aspects of access requirements in the National Construction Code (NCC).
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) makes it unlawful to treat a person with a disability or their associates in a different way from other people when providing goods, services, facilities and access to premises.
The DDA contains a broad definition of disability, including:
- physical
- intellectual
- psychiatric
- sensory
- neurological
- learning disabilities
- physical disfigurement
- the presence in the body of disease-causing organisms.
It includes for conditions which presently exist, previously existed and may exist in the future. It also applies in relation to having a carer, assistant, assistance animal or disability aid in the same way as it applies in relation to having a disability.
The Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010 (otherwise known as the 'Premises Standards') were produced under the DDA to outline the minimum level of access required to buildings in order to satisfy the requirements of the DDA. The Premises Standards were amended in 2020 to reflect updates to NCC 2019. The access provisions of the Premises Standards have been incorporated into the NCC , formerly the Building Code of Australia (BCA) since BCA 2011, providing a minimum compliance level for all building works requiring building approval.
Works which do not require building approval can also impact on the accessibility of an environment and are subject to the general provisions of the DDA.
This note was kindly reviewed by the National Enabling Architecture Committee (NEAC).
Related courses - Available via Online CPD
Disclaimer
This content is provided by the Australian Institute of Architects for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. It is not legal, financial, insurance, or other advice and you should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result. The Institute endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time. Using this website and content is subject to the Acumen User Licence.