Media release — 17 March 2010

New access standards for premises will open doors for people with disabilities

The release of the Disability Standards for Access to Premises is a major milestone to ensure people with disabilities can fully participate in community life according to Neroli Holmes, Acting Commissioner with the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland.

Ms Holmes said, "People with disabilities or limited mobility and their supporters have been working for many years to gain equal access to buildings."

The Standards set the minimum requirements for access for people with disabilities in gaining access to office blocks, shops, hotels, motels, and common areas of new apartment buildings.

The Standards set the minimum requirements for features such as accessible lifts, stairs, ramps, toilets and corridors.

The Standards will apply to all new buildings and to those undergoing major renovations.

They will also provide a consistent framework for developers, builders and building owners, who previously had to familiarise themselves with multiple codes and pieces of legislation in the various states.

The release of the standards will address inconsistencies between Queensland's anti-discrimination law and current building law.

Changes to building laws to bring them in line with the new standards will occur after approval by Federal Parliament, and before the standards come into force in 2011.

Interview opportunities: Acting Commissioner Neroli Holmes

Media contact: MaryBeth Gundrum on 0439 676 364 | TTY 1300 130 680

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