After almost two decades, building owners and the community alike finally have a clear guide for providing disability access to premises.
The Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010, launched this week by the Federal Government, are the product of long-term, intensive negotiations between government, industry, and the disability community.
“Today's launch represents the culmination of efforts to align the intent of the Disability Discrimination Act and the Building Code of Australia,” said Property Council CEO Peter Verwer.
“The standard provides clear rules for the construction of all new buildings and properties undergoing extensive refurbishment.
“The property industry, in partnership with the disability sector, has been committed to improving access to its buildings for people with disabilities.
“We are pleased to see the Government’s final proposals now out in the public arena.
Mr Verwer said the absence of a disability standard created uncertainty for property owners.
“Owners who build to the Building Code at the moment are at constant risk of a complaint,” he said.
“From 1 May, 2011, industry and the community alike will know what is required by the DDA and how they can comply.”
Mr Verwer said that the Property Council strongly welcomed today’s announcement.
“We applaud the Commonwealth and all other parties for seeing this initiative through to the finalisation of the Premises Standards,” he said.
“We look forward to the final standards being adopted by the Senate and commencing next year.”
For more information contact:
Peter Verwer (02) 9033 1900 or 0407 463 842
Paul Waterhouse (02) 9033 1956 or 0411 875 366
