Accessible Buildings Program

Eligibility considerations – facilities

Under the Accessible Buildings Program (ABP), the Victorian Schools Building Authority makes reasonable adjustments to functional areas that the eligible school community member requires access to as part of their regular school activities, and not to all areas of the school. These adjustments will be consistent with the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010 (Cth).

The program ensures inclusion into the school environment and respects the dignity and privacy of each school community member for whom an application is made.

Documentation relating to the need for the adjustment

To support decision-making for facility modifications under the ABP, schools must obtain a signed professional report (for example, from an occupational therapist, audiologist or optometrist).

Eligible projects

The ABP provides funding for schools to:

• make adjustments to facilities to make sure that eligible members of the school community with disability have reasonable access to school facilities whilst maintaining their dignity and respect
• meet the needs of the school community where accessibility issues occur as a result of existing disability, or as a result of accident or deteriorating conditions
• make adjustments to the functional spaces that a student with disability needs to access in order to meet their curriculum requirements.

Eligible facility modifications

Facility modifications may include:

• ramps and handrails (including temporary ramps)
• toilet and shower modifications
• modifications for vision impairments
• modifications for hearing impairments
• change tables and hoists
• limited external works to improve access for the applicant.