The Landcom Universal Housing Design Guidelines were published in 2008, but the information is as relevant today as it was when first published. The designs were well researched and there are sample plans for all types of dwellings. The design process included costing the features. They found that if these features are considered at the outset of the design, the additional cost is minimal.
You can download the Universal Housing Design Guidelines as a Handbook or quick reference Factsheet. Apart from key design features it has a section on model houses – single and double storey detached homes. These Guidelines formed the underpinnings of the Livable Housing Design Guidelines (Silver and Gold levels) in 2012.
2023 Update: Many of the features in these guidelines are in the National Construction Code and will take effect from October 2023. Most jurisdictions have agreed to adopt the Livable Housing Design Standard. As of December 2022 NSW, and WA said they will delay their adoption.
Note: the Landcom Guidelines are difficult to find on the Landcom website. They have been archived in Trove (The National Library of Australia).