Update on Building Codes Board

The following table gives a brief outline of the responses received from Ministers after we asked them to support the Proposal for Change to the National Construction Code so that  basic access features will be included in all new homes.

The Australian Building Codes Board (Building Code Committee) will discuss ANUHD/RIA Proposal for Change to the National Construction Code at their next meeting on 14 July 2016. The State Ministers’ responses are as follows: Minister de Brenni Queensland Support PFC in principle. Backed by support from the Premier and Minister for Disability Services. Minister Wynne Victoria Support PFC in principle. Minister Rau South Australia Supportive of universal design—applauds work of Ms Kelly Vincent MP. Kelly Vincent MP has asked Minister Rau to support the PFC in principle. Minister Mischin WA No response Minister Tony Simpson- support in principle. Premier Barnett- supportive of universal design in housing. Minister Rob Stokes NSW Letter from Alex O’Mara. Highly aware of the issue. Suggests ABCB will need direction from COAG. Minister Gutwein Tasmania Acknowledges that most people need accessibility in their homes—waiting on advice from the ABCB. Chief Minister Barr ACT Supportive of our work, keen to participate actively in the National debate. Suggests ABCB will need direction from COAG and Building Ministers’ Forum Minister David Tollner NT No response