If you’ve ever tried to navigate a home in a wheelchair or watched a loved one struggle with stairs as they age, you’ll understand why the recent changes to our National Building Code are such a big deal for Queenslanders.
What’s Changing in Queensland?
Unlike our neighbours in NSW and WA, Queensland has embraced new accessibility standards that will make future homes much more liveable for everyone.
These changes require all new homes to meet the Liveable Housing Design (LHD) silver standard.
What does this actually mean?
New homes will have to include:
- At least one step-free entrance
- Wider doorways and hallways
- A toilet on the ground level
- And other features that make homes more accessible
It’s about building and creating homes that work for people of all ages and abilities… whether you’re a young parent with a pram, someone recovering from surgery, or a person using a mobility aid.
Real Stories Show Why This Matters
Belle Owen – Image courtesy of ABC.net.au
The ABC recently shared Belle Owen’s story, which highlights why these changes are so important.
After buying her first home last year, Belle, who uses a wheelchair, still can’t live independently because her house isn’t fully accessible.
“I’ve still had to rely on somebody else to turn on a shower for me, turn on the taps for me when I need to wash my hands, you know, reach my oven to turn on my oven for me if I just need to preheat it,” she told the ABC.
Another woman named Marie spent a whopping 35 years living in homes that didn’t meet her mobility needs. Imagine that… three and a half decades of not being able to access all the rooms in your own home!
When she finally found an accessible place, she could finally play cards and board games with her grandkids at a proper table, rather than across her bed.
Good Start, But Is It Enough?
While disability advocates are calling these changes “exciting,” many believe more could be done. The current silver standard is a great first step, but there are gold and platinum standards that would create even more accessible housing.
Some advocates have shared stories of people literally crawling to access bathrooms because that’s their only option. These new standards will help prevent these situations in new homes, but what about existing homes?
Looking Forward: A More Accessible Queensland
The good news is that Queensland is heading in the right direction.
As new homes are built to these standards, the overall accessibility of our housing stock will gradually improve.
For those currently looking for accessible housing, organisations across the Sunshine Coast and Queensland can help connect people with suitable accommodation options. And while finding the perfect accessible home might still be challenging today, these building code changes mean that in the future, more homes will work for more people.
The best part? These accessible features aren’t just good for people with disabilities… they’re good for everyone. Whether you’re carrying groceries, moving furniture, aging in place, or just want a home that will adapt to your changing needs, these design elements make life easier.
So next time you’re house hunting or building, keep an eye out for these accessibility features. They might just be the difference between a house that works for now, and a home that works for life!
