A new set of Livable Housing Design (LHD) guidelines have been published by Livable Housing Australia.
The new system comprises a three-level rating system for Australian property - silver, gold and platinum.
As part of the plan, seven core livability standards will be assessed - the safe installation of grabrails in bathrooms, at least one level entrance to the dwelling, a toilet on the groundfloor, a continuous handrail of at least 1 m height on any stairs, step-free shower facilities, a safe and continuous, stepless path to the street and internal doors and corridors providing unimpeded movement.
Livable Housing Australia chair and Property Council of Australia chief executive officer Peter Verwer commented: "It makes sense to commit to livability features when a home is first designed and built rather than wait for an unplanned need to arise."
Earlier this month, the Real Estate Institute of Victoria announced plans to reduce the amount of red tape presently faced by developers hoping to build new homes in the state.
As part of a drive to cut bureaucracy, the organisation has revealed for plans to scrap the need for retail leases to be lodged with the small business commissioner.
Posted by Craig Francis
