Public transport has always been a critically important mode of transport for many people in the community. This includes for people with a disability or other access challenges who rely on public transport to undertake their everyday activities. The Australian Bureau of Statistics writes, “When people with disabilities are restricted from accessing affordable and convenient … Read More
Universal Design is the process of designing products and environments to be useable by everyone, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialised design. Universal Design incorporates the needs of women and men, people with disabilities, older adults, children and young people, people who are left handed or people who are … Read More
Architects have a significant power in designing and creating spaces that everyone can use, every day. From the smallest cabin, to vast shopping centres and skyscrapers, architects are responsible for creating structures for all people to use and enjoy. With that significant power comes significant responsibility. Celebration of high quality architecture has traditionally always focused … Read More
During the design and construction process, few roles require the vast knowledge base of the building surveyor. Their role, as described by the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS), is ‘ensuring buildings are safe to occupy, energy efficient, accessible and are suitable for occupation.’ ‘As part of this responsibility, they review, analyse and assess plans … Read More
Happy Holidays from Access Institute The team at Access Institute will be taking a break during the festive season. Access Institute would like to thank you for all your support throughout the year and look forward to working and training with you in 2018. Our office will be closed for the Christmas break from close … Read More
Accessible tourism presents challenges in many ways for both customers and service providers alike. Movement from one location to another, accommodation, information and service provision are core elements of any tourism experience. Some important general statistics to note around access and tourism: Almost one in five people has a disability Nearly 90 percent of people … Read More
The decision to undertake access audits can seem like a daunting one, especially when tens or hundreds of buildings, facilities and spaces may be under an organisation’s control. There are a host of reasons to undertake access audits of premises, including determining compliance with relevant Australian building legislation, demonstrating a commitment to meeting the intent … Read More
“What is a (or what’s the difference between a) qualified access consultant and an ACAA accredited member?” is a frequently asked question of many in the access industry. Whilst Commonwealth legislation requires all public buildings and services to be accessible, the access industry remains a niche area, with many individuals and organisations lacking a full … Read More
“We need to get some access audits done before we do any upgrades.” This statement is heard throughout many Australian organisations every year. But what exactly is an access audit? The common understanding is that an access audit involves inspecting premises or reviewing plans in order to determine compliance with relevant access legislation, codes and … Read More
Access Institute is excited to announce the launch of our new company name and website. Why have we changed our name from Institute of Access Training Australia (IATA) to Access Institute? We feel it is now time to refresh our brand image to continue to set the benchmark for access advice and training in such … Read More