Time to change the code – independence and reablement

As our aged care system grapples with rising demand and increasing complexity of care - one issue continues to occupy us - how to design spaces that consider the changing needs of older people while preserving independence and autonomy.

Supporting people living with dementia through design is a recurrent theme at the International Dementia Conference, and this year is no different.

Taking the concurrent stage on day 2 in stream E are Caitlin Masters and Katrina Tolhurst from our platinum sponsor, Bickerton Masters architects. In their session Changes to the code – how independent living isn’t working for aged care’s dementia future – Caitlin and Katrina will offer a compelling argument for why our current building classifications are failing to support people living with dementia in an independent living environment.

The problem with independent living

Apartment-based seniors living models are increasingly attractive to not-for-profit providers. They promise flexibility, community integration and a residential feel that aligns with how older Australians want to live. But the regulatory frameworks underpinning these developments tell a different story.

Under the National Construction Code, Class 2 buildings are suited to standard apartments. While these environments may work for truly independent residents, they quickly fall short when care needs increase – particularly for people living with dementia. Notable gaps include evacuation, monitoring, care escalation and dementia-informed design.

At the other end of the spectrum are Class 9C buildings – designed for residential aged care. With safety and clinical needs prioritised, these settings can be rigid, costly and misaligned with modern-day expectations of aged care such as autonomy, community and a pleasant, home-life environment.

A hybrid solution: introducing Class 2B

Caitlin and Katrina are bringing a fresh approach to the conference with a bold yet practical alternative – Class 2B.

They will share their view that we can have the best of both worlds – the residential character and aesthetic design of Class 2 apartments, combined with the safe, accessibility and care-ready features of Class 9C.

The aim is simple but powerful: apartments that feel like home yet can function as supported living environments when required.

This proposed classification responds directly to how people age in real life. It recognises that independence and care are not fixed states, and that environments should be designed to adapt as needs evolve – especially for people living with dementia.

Lessons from the real world

Caitlin and Katrina will introduce real-world examples where a hybrid approach is unlocking better outcomes. These include a 42-apartment seniors living project in South West Sydney, as well as emerging HammondCare developments in inner Sydney and Canberra.

They will outline the clear benefits of a Class 2B approach - safer environments, improved readiness for care escalation, greater design flexibility, and financially sustainable models for aged care providers – without sacrificing the sense of home that we all value so deeply.

Designing the next generation of flexible, adaptable aged care

For providers seeking to future-proof their portfolios, this session will offer a clear and actionable vision: smarter regulation that enables innovation, protects residents, and positions the sector to lead the next iteration of seniors living – one that is safer and more flexible, with human needs at the heart of it.

The challenge now lies in turning this vision into policy and practice. If the future of aged care is community-integrated, dementia informed and financially sustainable, then our building codes must evolve to meet it.

Hear from Caitlin and Katrina, and many more concurrent presenters at #IDC2026.