The DDA, NCC and AS 1428 are connected but serve different purposes. The DDA is federal anti-discrimination legislation. The NCC is the technical building code used in design and approval. The AS 1428 suite contains detailed accessibility provisions referenced by the NCC and other documents.
Because access requirements are project-specific, the correct answer depends on the building, proposed work, approval pathway and evidence available. This guide explains the practical questions to ask before making a decision.
Need advice on a live project? Request a fee proposal from ASN.
The key factors
- The Disability Discrimination Act addresses discrimination against people with disability
- The Premises Standards help align certain access requirements with the building approval system
- The NCC establishes mandatory building requirements and compliance pathways
- Referenced Australian Standards provide detailed technical criteria
- The project’s use, approval date and jurisdiction determine which documents and editions are relevant
A qualified access consultant can help connect these factors to the relevant NCC provisions, Premises Standards, Australian Standards and project documentation. The review scope should identify the criteria being applied and any important limitations.
Common mistakes
Treating the three documents as interchangeable, assuming NCC compliance removes every possible DDA concern, using an edition without checking the approval basis, or applying a clause without reading its context.
These mistakes are easier to correct in drawings and project planning than after approval, procurement or construction. Early review also gives the architect, building surveyor, owner and contractor a shared record of the issue.
A practical way forward
- Confirm the project classification, scope and approval pathway
- Ask the building surveyor which NCC edition and referenced standards apply
- Use a qualified access consultant for project-specific interpretation
- Obtain legal advice separately if the question concerns liability or a discrimination complaint
What useful advice should contain
A useful assessment should state the purpose of the review, the documents or areas assessed, the applicable criteria, material findings, assumptions, exclusions and recommended next actions. It should be written for the people who need to resolve the issue, rather than simply reproducing clauses.
Where a design changes after the assessment, the affected access findings should be reviewed again. One altered doorway, level, fixture or route can affect connected parts of the accessibility strategy.
Relevant ASN service
ASN’s primary service for this issue is DDA Access Consultant. Access Solutions National has provided disability access and inclusion advice since 2002. Our consultants are qualified and Accredited Members of the Association of Consultants in Access Australia (ACAA).
Frequently asked questions
Should I wait until the design is complete?
No. Early advice usually provides more options and reduces the chance of redesign. The scope can be updated as documentation develops.
Does an access consultant replace the building surveyor?
No. The access consultant provides specialist advice. The building surveyor or relevant authority remains responsible for statutory approval decisions.
What should I send ASN?
Send the address, project description, current drawings or photographs, project stage, question to be answered and required date. ASN will confirm the appropriate service and scope.
Discuss your project
Request a fee proposal or call 1300 276 222 for practical disability access advice.