Speaking fluent universal design

Head and shoulders of Stefano Scalzo.
Stefano Scalzo Executive General Manager Planning and Development

Stefano Scalzo was speaking fluent universal design at the UD2021 Conference. In his keynote address he showcased what the Victorian Government is doing to progress universal design in state projects. Stefano gave practical examples of how universal design has been applied in real life, to real buildings for real people. 

Stefano Scalzo is the Executive General Manager, Planning and Development with the Victorian Government. Their universal design approach is based on their Universal Design Charter, which is: 

      • Equity
      • Respect
      • Participation
      • Sustainability
      • Responsibility
      • Awareness
      • Collaboration

This is not a building code compliance approach: it’s a human rights perspective and putting people first. 

Universal Design Charter slide with 7 elements
The 7 elements of the Universal Design Charter

It’s part of the tender process

The Government’s commitment is not just a policy – it is action. Their procurement process asks prospective tenderers to tell them how they will achieve universal design. And they are promoting a culture of inclusion where universal design is integrated at the beginning of every project. 

Stefano explained more about the tender process and then showed us several examples of buildings that met their charter. He added that we are really just beginning and there is so much more to learn. And he challenged us to keep the conversation going. Specifically he asked delegates to commit to the conversation by:

      • Taking this back to your Director
      • Presenting to your team
      • Forming an advisory group
      • Redrafting the design
      • Listening – really listening – to someone with lived experience
      • Adopting a charter
      • Adjusting your process
      • Thinking beyond accessibility – to participation, safety, welcome
      • Going beyond compliance 
      • Delivering more than a minimum standard. 

It was wonderful to hear a government representative speaking fluent universal design. This is the kind of leadership we all need in Australia if we are to become truly inclusive. 

Slide says How will you keep this conversation going?Stefano shared his slides and his speech notes which have a lot more detail about the work they are doing in Victoria.

Michael Walker’s presentation expanded on aspects of this presentation. Victoria is clearly committed to inclusion and universal design.