This research assesses the impact of the Livable Housing Design Standard (LHDS) on housing supply. In 2022, the National Construction Code introduced the mandatory LHDS to ensure new dwellings meet the needs of people with disability and older Australians.

The report examines how Victoria has maintained its position as a leader in housing construction while implementing minimum accessibility standards. The findings offers lessons for policymakers navigating the tension between housing quantity and housing quality. 

Key Findings 

1. Victoria leads the nation in homebuilding.
2. Victoria's success stems – in part – from foundational advantages.
3. Victoria's planning system facilitated easier LHDS implementation.
4. Victoria was already prepared for the LHDS.
5. Harmonised regulation reduces complexity and cost.

Policy implications

• Victoria's success demonstrates that accessibility standards can be compatible with high housing output when implemented within a supportive planning framework.
• Governments should prioritise high-impact planning reforms – such as allowing greater density in well-located areas, removing floor area ratios, and reducing discretionary approval processes – over marginal adjustments to building standards.
• Harmonising building and planning regulations reduces compliance complexity and costs.
• State and Territory governments should work to eliminate conflicts between building and planning regulations rather than maintain separate, sometimes contradictory, requirements.