Peter Steenstrup has not lived with his family for more than five years.
Living alone, away from his wife, takes a toll, he told 9news.com.au.
Spinal Life Australia wants the requirements to remain mandatory.
They claim that implementing accessibility requirements can save taxpayers millions in the long run by lessening the necessity for home modifications, hospitalizations, and aged care admissions.
CEO Mark Townend said the lack of reliable data about supply and demand of accessible housing is a major issue.
“The costs to the community of lack of accessible housing is estimated to be between $3 billion and $6.7 billion,” he said.
“It is evident that a significantly greater supply of accessible housing is needed, and relying on the construction industry to voluntarily provide this has failed to yield any noticeable outcomes.”
“Spinal Life Australia is committed to advocating for individuals with disabilities, and strongly urges the Queensland Government to dismiss the QPC’s suggestion and maintain the Liveable Housing Standard.”
Steenstrup plans to return to his family home once he has the funds to make essential modifications, which include lifting the house and constructing underneath it.
He says the cost of making it accessible for him in the process is no more so than it would be otherwise.
“There’s no extra real-world costs involved, we’ve just got to lay it out in a way that’s specific to my needs,” he said.
He wants the state to retain the Liveable Housing Standard to ensure there is enough accessible homes for Queensland’s growing and ageing population.
“We need this in place as a bare minimum just to support our population,” he said.
“We’re a quarter of the way into the 21st century and this idea sends us backwards.
“Very shortly, we’re gonna have the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.
“They’re gonna see Queensland, how we treat the most vulnerable in our society.”
The Queensland government is awaiting the complete report from the Queensland Productivity Commission, expected to be submitted to the treasurer on October 24, before evaluating any findings or suggestions.
