Understanding DAPS and amendments to the NCC

Ensuring Equal Access: Insights from Collective Design Solutions

At Collective Design Solutions, we pride ourselves on our dedication to creating inclusive environments that provide equal access to all individuals, regardless of their abilities. As a leading disability access consulting and building surveying firm, we understand the importance of staying updated with legislative changes and industry standards. One such critical set of guidelines is the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010, commonly referred to as the Premises Standards.

What Are the Premises Standards?

The Premises Standards were established under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to public buildings. These standards are encapsulated in the Access Code for Buildings (Access Code), which outlines specific features that must be included in public buildings to facilitate accessibility. The Access Code is meticulously aligned with the National Construction Code (NCC) to ensure consistency across building regulations.

At Collective Design Solutions, our team of experts ensures that every project we undertake complies with both the Access Code and the NCC. By doing so, we help create spaces that are not only compliant but also welcoming and accessible to all individuals.

Recent Amendments to the Premises Standards

In response to the 2021 review of the Premises Standards, several amendments were made, coming into effect on 23 November 2024. A key change involves updating the Access Code to reference the 2021 edition of ‘AS 1428.1 Design for access and mobility’. Previously, the Access Code referred to the 2009 edition of AS 1428.1, which is also the edition currently referenced in the NCC. This ensures that our designs and assessments reflect current best practices in accessibility.

These amendments, as a legislative instrument, must undergo parliamentary processes before taking effect. As of now, the amended Premises Standards were presented to the Senate on 26 November 2024. Should the parliamentary process proceed without repeal, the amended standards will be enforced. Until then, practitioners may continue to apply the earlier edition of AS 1428.1.

Navigating Procedural Amendments to the NCC

Once the amended Premises Standards take effect, the NCC will be amended accordingly to align with the updated Access Code requirements. The primary change will be the reference to the 2021 edition of AS 1428.1, ensuring that our designs and assessments are up-to-date with the latest best practices in accessibility.

At Collective Design Solutions, we stay ahead of these changes, ensuring our clients receive the most current and compliant advice. Our team is well-versed in navigating the nuances of these amendments, providing clear guidance on how they impact building projects.

Understanding Clause Referencing Systems

One potential challenge for practitioners is the difference in clause referencing systems between NCC 2022 and the Access Code. The NCC updated its clause referencing system in 2022, while the Access Code, developed in 2010, uses the previous system. This discrepancy means that corresponding provisions in the Access Code and NCC Volume One have different clause references.

To assist our clients in navigating these complexities, Collective Design Solutions offers comprehensive guidance materials and consultations. We ensure that our clients are well-informed and confident in implementing the necessary changes to comply with the updated standards.

The Importance of the Access to Premises Standards

The Access to Premises Standards, or the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010, are foundational in our efforts to create accessible public spaces. These standards cover a wide range of building design aspects, including entrances, exits, corridors, lifts, and amenities, ensuring that they are accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

At Collective Design Solutions, we embrace the principles of universal design, aiming to create environments that are accessible, understandable, and usable by all people, regardless of their age, size, ability, or disability. By incorporating these principles into our projects, we help eliminate physical barriers and promote inclusivity.

Commitment to Periodic Review and Compliance

The Premises Standards must be reviewed periodically to ensure their continued relevance and effectiveness. These reviews are essential for incorporating advancements in technology, evolving societal expectations, and legislative changes. The most recent review in 2021 led to the amendments discussed above.

At Collective Design Solutions, we are committed to staying informed about these updates and ensuring that our clients’ projects comply with the latest requirements. Non-compliance with the Premises Standards can result in legal consequences and undermine the goal of creating inclusive environments for all individuals.

Conclusion

The recent amendments to the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010 highlight our ongoing commitment to improving accessibility in public buildings. By referencing the 2021 edition of ‘AS 1428.1 Design for access and mobility’, the updated standards reflect current best practices in accessible design. However, these changes will only take effect once the parliamentary process is complete.

At Collective Design Solutions, we are dedicated to ensuring that our clients are well-prepared for these changes. Our expertise in disability access consulting and building surveying allows us to provide valuable insights and guidance, helping our clients create spaces that are both compliant and inclusive.

We invite you to reach out to our team for any assistance with your accessibility projects. Together, we can make a positive impact by designing and developing spaces that welcome and accommodate everyone.