AS 1428.1: what changed between 2009 and 2021
NCC 2022 requires new work to comply with AS 1428.1:2021 rather than the 2009 edition. The 2021 edition makes over 50 refinements to text, figures and clauses, and restructures clause numbering for easier navigation. The changes that actually affect a design fall into five areas.
Continuous accessible paths of travel
Clarified tolerances for carpet, grate dimensions sized to prevent mobility aid wheels or canes getting caught, and more detail on ramp geometry.
Doors and doorways
Lower door operating force thresholds, a new 300mm maximum door reveal depth, and added specification for glazing panels.
Sanitary facilities
Grabrail minimum lengths reduced from 700mm to 400–450mm, with defined zones for toilet paper dispensers.
Visual and tactile indicators
The 75mm contrasting strip is retained, with expanded rules on logo placement and contrast specification.
Other refinements
Handrail terminations, control reach zones, and ramp edge protection all received minor detail changes.
Do existing 2009-compliant designs need to be redone?
Generally no. Designs that met the 2009 edition typically still meet 2021, with a small number of exceptions. New projects assessed under NCC 2022, though, need to be checked against the 2021 edition specifically.