Sydney will host the Universal Design Conference in August this year to explore the principles of universal and inclusive design.

A worldwide movement, universal design has application in every Australian community. A built environment that is designed to be safer and more useable will make housing, public buildings, public spaces, parks, and transportation more accessible to all.

Across the two days of the Universal Design Conference, delegates will discuss and explore the two themes of inclusive practice and inclusive policy through 32 presentations and case studies, all with the focus of creating inclusive and liveable environments.

Some of the topics being explored on Day One of the Universal Design Conference include: Design of innovative buildings - Guy Luscombe; Inter-professional perspectives - Helen Larkin; Policy and Regulation - Dr Lisa Stafford; Slip resistance - Richard Bowman; Government and community - Shawn Neilson; and Play Spaces and Parks - Mary Jeavons.

The full program can be accessed on the Universal Design Conference website.

The Universal Design Conference 2014 will be held over two days from Wednesday 20 August, 9am – 5pm to Thursday 21 August, 8.45am – 4.30pm at Lower Town Hall, Town Hall, Sydney.