An optional pathway has been introduced in lieu of applying the traditional pathway, which includes provision for all‑gender facilities alongside male and female facilities, in commercial buildings. This voluntary pathway allows up to 50 per cent of the required male and female facilities to be provided as all-gender facilities, applied equally. Where buildings and tenancies have low occupancy, a higher proportion of all-gender facilities may be provided.

As awareness of inclusive design continues to grow, so does the demand for access consultants. Whether in commercial developments, residential projects, public spaces, or infrastructure, accessibility is no longer a box to tick, it’s a fundamental part of good design, compliance, and community responsibility.

When designing accessible parking spaces, the required width of a shared zone beside an accessible parking space in Australia referring to AS2890.6:2009 mandates a 2400mm wide shared zone, whilst in New Zealand referring to NZS 4121:2001, only requires a 1200mm width.

When it comes to designing accessible environments, the gradient of ramps is a critical consideration. In Australia a ramp is required to have a 1 in 14 gradient for a maximum length of 9m before a landing is required as outlined in AS1428.1-2009.

Based on AS1428.1-2009, lift buttons are required to have a minimum 500mm clearance to a corner wall or other obstruction to ensure that a person with a mobility aid is able to approach the lift buttons without obstructing the lift opening and press the buttons to call the lift.

If the number of people who will occupy a building is known, it should be used. However, in the absence of more accurate information, Clause D1.13 must be used. D1.13 is used in several Parts of the BCA, such as in calculating minimum exit widths, as well as the number of sanitary and other facilities. D1.13 does not restrict the number of occupants using a building, or enforce any building use or licensing requirements.

Part F3 of the BCA details the requirements for rooms or spaces within a building that must provide a height suitable for the intended use. ‘Intended use’ recognises that the height required in rooms and spaces is directly related to the room’s function.

The BCA classifies buildings by their use. A building may be made up of a number of classes if it has a mixed use.