The Albanese Government has announced the “Reimagining Where We Live” design competition, aimed at testing the National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines. The competition challenges architects and interior designers to devise innovative approaches for implementing these guidelines to enhance the living conditions of elderly residents. There will be two competition sites, one in a metropolitan area and one in a regional setting, offering first and second prizes of $50,000 and $20,000, respectively.
The core objective of these Principles and Guidelines is to facilitate practical modifications in aged care facilities, creating safe and supportive environments where older individuals can lead meaningful lives, promoting their independence, function, and a sense of belonging. This initiative has gained the endorsement of the Australian Institute of Architects and the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.
“The Government wants to encourage flexibility and innovation in aged care accommodation design and support emerging technologies to better meet the need of future generations.”
Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells
Entries will be accepted until December 15, 2023, at noon. The draft Principles and Guidelines were initially released for feedback on September 6, 2023, following extensive consultation with the elderly, their families, and caregivers. They are slated for implementation starting from July 1, 2024.
The link to the competition site is still to come.
