All public and commercial buildings, including offices, shopping malls, schools, mosques, temples, hospitals, residential developments, childcare centres, and heritage sites. We also support private residences and Specialist Disability Accommodation-style projects.

Yes, under UBBL By-Law 34A and MS 1184:2014. While enforcement has been uneven, the 2026 PwD Act amendments are set to strengthen penalties and requirements. Early compliance reduces risk and demonstrates social responsibility.

Australian standards (NCC, Premises Standards, AS 1428, and NDIS SDA) are highly prescriptive with detailed design categories and performance solutions. MS 1184:2014 aligns closely with universal design principles and can be enhanced using Australian best practices. We specialize in translating proven Australian approaches into practical, locally compliant Malaysian solutions.

The amendments are expected to introduce enforceable accessibility standards, time-bound compliance periods, penalties for violations, and stronger participation rights for persons with disabilities. Building owners and developers should start with independent audits and compliance roadmaps now to avoid rushed retrofits later. Our team can help you prepare proactively.

MS 1184:2014 is the Malaysian Standard for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment. It provides detailed guidelines for making buildings inclusive for people with disabilities, the elderly, and all users. Compliance helps meet UBBL By-Law 34A requirements and prepares for stronger enforcement under the upcoming PwD Act amendments. Non-compliance risks delays in approvals, legal issues, and missed opportunities for truly inclusive spaces.

Timelines vary from 2 days to around 6 weeks depending on project size and complexity. Costs are project-specific. We offer competitive packages and can provide a quick fee indication after a short briefing. Contact us for a no-obligation discussion.

Absolutely. We prepare documentation packs, liaise with DBKL, JKM, KPWKM, and local councils, and support Performance Solutions where needed. Our team has experience with both Malaysian and Australian regulatory processes.

Yes — this is a core part of our model. We provide specialist accessibility input while the local architect retains design leadership and sign-off. This creates hands-on training opportunities and ensures seamless integration.

We conduct a thorough site assessment, review drawings and documentation against MS 1184:2014 and UBBL 34A, identify barriers, and deliver a clear report with prioritized recommendations, risk register, and cost estimates. We can also provide on-site construction guidance.

We provide independent access audits, compliance matrices, performance solutions, regulatory strategy and approvals support, capacity-building training, and implementation support through local architectural partnerships. Our hybrid model combines Australian expertise with on-the-ground Malaysian delivery.

General & Regulatory Questions

1. What is MS 1184:2014 and why is it important for Malaysian buildings? MS 1184:2014 is the Malaysian Standard for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment. It provides detailed guidelines for making buildings inclusive for people with disabilities, the elderly, and all users. Compliance helps meet UBBL By-Law 34A requirements and prepares for stronger enforcement under the upcoming PwD Act amendments. Non-compliance risks delays in approvals, legal issues, and missed opportunities for truly inclusive spaces.

2. How do the 2026 PwD Act amendments affect building owners and developers in Malaysia? The amendments are expected to introduce enforceable accessibility standards, time-bound compliance periods, penalties for violations, and stronger participation rights for persons with disabilities. Building owners and developers should start with independent audits and compliance roadmaps now to avoid rushed retrofits later. Our team can help you prepare proactively.

3. What is the difference between Australian accessibility standards (NDIS/SDA) and Malaysian requirements (MS 1184)? Australian standards (NCC, Premises Standards, AS 1428, and NDIS SDA) are highly prescriptive with detailed design categories and performance solutions. MS 1184:2014 aligns closely with universal design principles and can be enhanced using Australian best practices. We specialize in translating proven Australian approaches into practical, locally compliant Malaysian solutions.

4. Is accessibility compliance mandatory in Malaysia? Yes, under UBBL By-Law 34A and MS 1184:2014. While enforcement has been uneven, the 2026 PwD Act amendments are set to strengthen penalties and requirements. Early compliance reduces risk and demonstrates social responsibility.

5. What types of buildings need accessibility audits in Malaysia? All public and commercial buildings, including offices, shopping malls, schools, mosques, temples, hospitals, residential developments, childcare centres, and heritage sites. We also support private residences and Specialist Disability Accommodation-style projects.

Services & Process Questions

6. What accessibility services do you offer in Malaysia? We provide independent access audits, compliance matrices, performance solutions, regulatory strategy and approvals support, capacity-building training, and implementation support through local architectural partnerships. Our hybrid model combines Australian expertise with on-the-ground Malaysian delivery.

7. How does an accessibility audit work with your team? We conduct a thorough site assessment, review drawings and documentation against MS 1184:2014 and UBBL 34A, identify barriers, and deliver a clear report with prioritized recommendations, risk register, and cost estimates. We can also provide on-site construction guidance.

8. Do you work with local Malaysian architects and firms? Yes — this is a core part of our model. We provide specialist accessibility input while the local architect retains design leadership and sign-off. This creates hands-on training opportunities and ensures seamless integration.

9. Can you help with authority submissions and approvals? Absolutely. We prepare documentation packs, liaise with DBKL, JKM, KPWKM, and local councils, and support Performance Solutions where needed. Our team has experience with both Malaysian and Australian regulatory processes.

10. What is the typical timeline and cost for an accessibility audit? Timelines vary from 2–6 weeks depending on project size and complexity. Costs are project-specific. We offer competitive packages and can provide a quick fee indication after a short briefing. Contact us for a no-obligation discussion.

Training & Architect-Focused Questions

11. Do you offer training for Malaysian architects on universal design? Yes. We run modular workshops and hands-on training programs using real access jobs as case studies. Our goal is to build practical skills in MS 1184 compliance, audits, and inclusive design. We collaborate with PAM and LAM on CPD opportunities.

12. How can architects earn CPD points while improving accessibility skills? Through our co-delivered workshops and practical training on live or demonstrative projects. Sessions can be tailored for PAM/LAM CPD accreditation. Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.

13. What BIM software and tools does your team use? Our team is highly proficient in Archicad (versions 22–27), with experience in Revit, SketchUp, and AutoCAD. We apply BIM workflows to improve coordination, documentation efficiency, and accessibility integration.

14. Can your team act as panel critics or contribute to architectural education? Yes. Several team members serve as panel critics for UiTM, IIUM, and UIA students. We regularly contribute professional feedback on inclusive design.

15. How does remote project management work for Australian-Malaysian projects? Our team has many years of successful remote coordination with Australian clients, consultants, and authorities using tools like Zoom, Archicad Server, and shared documentation platforms. We maintain clear communication and deliver consistent results across time zones.

Project Types & Case Studies

16. Do you have experience with mosques and religious buildings? Yes. Recent work includes access audits of Masjid Jamek (Kuala Lumpur) with the PAM SCR Committee and the final assessment audit of Masjid Raja Haji Fisabilillah in Cyberjaya. We respect cultural and heritage values while delivering practical inclusive solutions.

17. What was involved in the US Embassy Kuala Lumpur accessible toilet project? This flagship 2026 project involves full A&E design services for a new universal accessible toilet compliant with Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) standards, ANSI A117.1, OBO requirements, and Malaysian codes. It serves as a high-profile demonstration of best-practice universal design and a training case study for local architects.

18. Do you support Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or similar projects in Malaysia? While SDA is an Australian NDIS program, we apply the same high standards of accessible, inclusive design to Malaysian disability accommodation, group homes, and aged-care projects, aligned with MS 1184:2014.

19. Can you help with heritage building accessibility upgrades? Yes. Our team has extensive experience balancing heritage preservation with modern accessibility requirements, including performance solutions and creative design adaptations.

20. How do I get started with improving accessibility on my project? Contact us for a free initial consultation or quick compliance checklist. Provide basic project details, and we’ll advise on the best next steps — whether an audit, training session, or collaborative design review. We’re here to make inclusive design practical and achievable.

Our team has many years of successful remote coordination with Australian clients, consultants, and authorities using tools like Zoom, Archicad Server, and shared documentation platforms. We maintain clear communication and deliver consistent results across time zones. We always have team members full time in both Malaysia and Australia and enjoy face to face for clear communication.

Yes. Several team members serve as panel critics for UiTM, IIUM, and UIA students. We regularly contribute professional feedback on inclusive design.

Our team is highly proficient in Archicad (versions 22–27), with experience in Revit, SketchUp, and AutoCAD. We apply BIM workflows to improve coordination, documentation efficiency, and accessibility integration.

Through our co-delivered workshops and practical training on live or demonstrative projects. Sessions can be tailored for PAM/LAM CPD accreditation. Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.

Yes. We run modular workshops and hands-on training programs using real access jobs as case studies. Our goal is to build practical skills in MS 1184 compliance, audits, and inclusive design. We collaborate with PAM and LAM on CPD opportunities.

Yes. Our team has extensive experience balancing heritage preservation with modern accessibility requirements, including performance solutions and creative design adaptations.

While SDA is an Australian NDIS program, we apply the same high standards of accessible, inclusive design to Malaysian disability accommodation, group homes, and aged-care projects, aligned with MS 1184:2014.

Yes. Recent work includes access audits of Masjid Jamek (Kuala Lumpur) with the PAM SCR Committee and the final assessment audit of Masjid Raja Haji Fisabilillah in Cyberjaya. We respect cultural and heritage values while delivering practical inclusive solutions.

Yes — our dedicated Southeast Asian website at accessconsultants.asia fully serves Malaysia and acts as our primary platform for Malaysian clients.

We are Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT, a Malaysian-registered entity with a Kuala Lumpur office, so the site is tailored for Malaysian projects and compliance needs:

• Detailed coverage of Malaysian accessibility standards (MS 1184:2014, Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 & upcoming 2026 amendments)
• Culturally sensitive advice for mosques, temples, shopping malls, hotels, public buildings, and OKU-inclusive developments in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and across Malaysia
• Local contact: +60 3-2779 7117 | kl@accessconsultants.asia
• Free initial consultations and wheelchair access audits for Malaysian developments

Whether you're a developer, architect, government body, or building owner preparing for stronger enforcement, visit accessconsultants.asia to explore our Malaysia-focused services, case studies, and resources. Book your free accessibility review today — we're here to help build a more inclusive Malaysia.

Yes, we have a fully registered office in Kuala Lumpur.

Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT LLP0019423-LGN (SSM-registered Private Limited Liability Partnership) Level 6, Menara Darussalam 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Phone: +60 3-2779 7117 Email: kl@accessconsultants.asia Website: accessconsultants.asia

Why This Matters for You

Our Kuala Lumpur office is not just a virtual or postal address — it is our operational hub with a full-time team of Malaysian-registered architects and access specialists (including PAM and LAM members). We combine Australian best-practice expertise (NDIS/SDA, AS 1428, Premises Standards) with on-the-ground Malaysian delivery (MS 1184:2014, UBBL 34A, local authority liaison).

This means:

• Faster site visits and audits
• Direct coordination with DBKL, JKM, KPWKM, and local councils
• Seamless collaboration with Malaysian architects and developers
• Immediate, culturally attuned project support

We are the only specialist access consultancy in Malaysia that is wholly owned by an Australian leader yet 100% locally staffed and registered — giving you the best of both worlds as enforcement of the PwD Act 2008 amendments strengthens in 2026.

Ready to talk? Drop us a message at kl@accessconsultants.asia or call +60 3-2779 7117. We’re based right here in KL and always happy to meet in person.

Yes, this is one of our strongest offerings. We provide construction-stage site inspections, compliance reviews, and practical advice to help contractors “get it right the first time.” Many clients find this support saves significant time and cost by avoiding rework.

The answer depends on the scale of the project. We usually have capacity to start within a day of mobilisation, at our team meeting. Urgent projects can sometimes be accommodated faster — please let us know your deadline and we will do our best to help.

• Mobilisation fee on acceptance of the quote
• Balance due on delivery of the final draft report.

The actual terms for your project will be outlined in our fee proposal considering the circumstances.

For larger projects, we stage payments aligned with project milestones.

All fees are quoted in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) for Malaysian projects and Australian dollars for Australian projects.

Yes. Almost all our work is quoted on a fixed-fee basis so you know the exact cost upfront with no surprises. We only use hourly rates in rare cases (e.g., very complex or open-ended advisory work), and we always confirm this with you first.

Yes — this is exactly how we prefer to work. We act as the accessibility specialist while your architect retains design leadership and sign-off. We regularly collaborate with Australian and Malaysian architects, architectural service providers, and Project Managers and Building Contractors, and when appropriate, discuss solutions with all the stakeholders, which is how we make the process seamless for everyone.

Just the basics:

• Project type (new build, renovation, existing building, etc.)
• Service requested. To make it easier, there's a list on our Quick Quote form. 
• Whether you have drawings or photos available. You can upload them on the form, or email them later.
• Any specific deadlines Send us whatever you have.
• You can use the Quick Quote form, or make a call. We’ll guide you from there.

We are very flexible.

• Remote audits are possible using photos, drawings, and video calls (common for preliminary reviews and unbuilt projects).
• On-site audits are recommended for existing buildings and essential for construction-phase inspections. We have successfully delivered both types for clients across Malaysia and Australia.

No. To understand the project its often easier to make a call, after which the written quote is completely free and without obligation. We only start charging once you confirm the engagement by paying the mobilistion fee.

Most standard audits are completed in 3 days from mobilisation to final report. Multi-site projects can take some weeks to co-ordinate and travel. We always give you a firm timeline in the fee proposal so you know exactly when to expect deliverables.

It’s very simple.

1. You contact us (phone, email, or the Quick Quote form in the main menu).
2. We schedule a short 10-minute call to understand your project if it's not obvious.
3. We send you a clear scope of work and fixed-fee quote (usually same day).
4. Your instructions to proceed must be clear.
5. Once we are mobilised, we start the work. No obligation at any step.

Contact us for a free initial consultation or quick compliance checklist. Provide basic project details, and we’ll advise on the best next steps — whether an audit, training session, or collaborative design review. We’re here to make inclusive design practical and achievable.

Reach out to us at [your contact details, e.g., info@SydneyAccessConsultants.com.au or 0414 414 101] for personalized explanations.

We can discuss adjustments based on your project's specifics, but it's a standard part of our agreements to ensure commitment from both sides. Any changes must be agreed in writing to maintain clarity.

For construction projects, this fee remains separate from any builder's deposit. We advise checking compliance with building laws, and we'll guide you on when specialist advice (e.g., from a town planner) is needed beyond our preliminary review.

It's a fixed lump sum based on the project's scale, typically 5–10% of the estimated total fees for services ordinarily performed by Architects. For Access Consultant services, given the nature of the work, the Mobilisation fee can be up to 50% and, and for Certification, for example, it can be 100%. We calculate it transparently during the proposal stage and confirm it in writing, including any GST. Variations are notified promptly if project changes arise.

It ensures we can dedicate resources to your project from day one, covering upfront costs that aren't recoverable otherwise. This fee structure supports efficient project starts and helps manage cash flow for small practices like ours, while keeping overall fees competitive.

What does the Mobilisation Fee cover? Here's a breakdown:

• 50% for Site Assessment:
• Initial site evaluation, including measurements, photography, preliminary accessibility audits, and gathering, collating, and informing our project team on applicable planning legislation limitations (e.g., zoning restrictions under local environmental plans) to inform the design brief.

• 30% for Team Mobilisation:
• Allocation and briefing of project team members, including access consultants or subcontractors, and procurement of necessary software or tools for project initiation.

• 20% for Administrative Setup:
• Establishment of project files, client communication protocols, and initial regulatory checks (e.g., zoning or compliance reviews under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW)). We'll provide evidence of completion, such as a preliminary site report, to confirm the fee has been earned.

Generally, no—it's non-refundable as it's earned progressively through the initial services we provide. However, if we fail to perform these services (e.g., due to our non-performance), you may be entitled to a pro-rata refund for undelivered portions. Refunds are assessed case-by-case, and we recommend discussing any concerns early via our dispute resolution process.

The fee is due upon execution of the agreement, before we proceed to full design stages. This allows us to mobilise our team and begin preliminary tasks promptly. We'll confirm the amount and payment details in writing during our initial discussions.

A deposit is typically a security payment to reserve services and may be refundable or capped under law (e.g., 10% for certain building contracts). Our Mobilisation Fee is not a deposit—it's payment for specific initial services we've already started delivering. It's not subject to deposit limits because it's tied directly to work performed, ensuring transparency and compliance with professional standards.

A Mobilisation Fee is an upfront lump-sum payment specified in your Services Schedule, charged upon signing the client-architect agreement. It covers the immediate costs and services for starting your project, such as initial setup and preliminary work. Unlike a deposit, it's earned as we perform these services and represents value provided right at the project's outset. This helps us allocate resources efficiently without delays.

As a local expert, Sandy Gray brings personalized service to the region, boosting inclusive outcomes for Mid North Coast communities. Our partnership model with Sydney Access Consultants ensures access to a broader team while supporting local workload and economic benefits.

We conduct thorough audits against AS 1428, AS 4299, the NCC, and Disability Standards, providing risk registers and prioritized recommendations. Our approach focuses on performance solutions that balance compliance with practical, cost-effective design.

Sandy Gray is a Qualified Access Consultant (ACAA), with a Diploma of Access Consulting, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and prior architect registration. She’s an active contributor to Australian Standards and access forums, ensuring our advice is current and authoritative.

Absolutely. Sandy’s full-time residence in Black Head allows for prompt on-site visits across the region. We also offer remote coordination for initial reviews, making our services accessible and efficient for local clients.

With Sandy’s experience on access committees and policy contributions (e.g., ACT Access Guide), we assist councils and organizations in developing inclusive policies. This includes awareness initiatives and equitable design guidelines to support sustainable, accessible infrastructure in the Mid North Coast.

Our branch combines local knowledge with national and international expertise. Sandy’s prior roles in NSW public sector architecture and standards development ensure pragmatic, evidence-based solutions. We prioritize immediate social benefits, like fairer communities, while minimizing regulatory risks for clients in the Mid North Coast.

Yes, Sandy provides remote support to our Kuala Lumpur team, bridging Australian expertise (e.g., AS 4299) with Malaysian standards like MS 1184:2014 and UBBL By-Law 34A. This hybrid model ensures high-quality compliance advice for cross-border projects, including authority liaison with DBKL, JKM, and KPWKM.

Sandy Gray, with her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, delivers hands-on workshops and CPD programs using real case studies. These are tailored for local architects, engineers, and government staff, covering universal design, access auditing, and policy development. We’ve adapted programs for diverse learners, including Indigenous students, to build capacity in equitable built environments.

We audit a wide variety, including public facilities (e.g., community halls, public toilets), residential developments, educational campuses, healthcare buildings, and heritage sites. Our focus is on creating barrier-free environments compliant with AS 1428 and the NCC, with a track record in NSW council projects.

Yes, we apply NDIS/SDA principles to ensure designs meet high standards for accessibility and safety. Sandy’s expertise bridges Australian best practices with local needs, supporting projects like group homes, aged care facilities, and institutional campuses in the Mid North Coast region.

Sandy Gray specializes in adaptable housing, drawing on her contributions to AS 4299. We help developers and homeowners create flexible, inclusive homes that can be easily modified for aging in place or disability needs. This includes design reviews, compliance matrices, and practical recommendations to deliver social and economic benefits, such as improved liveability and property value.

We provide a range of accessibility services tailored to NSW requirements, including:

• Independent access audits and compliance reviews.
• Adaptable housing design advice under AS 4299.
• Performance solutions and site-specific recommendations.
• Capacity-building training workshops for architects, facilities managers, and council staff.
• Regulatory strategy and liaison with local authorities for approvals. These services ensure equitable built environments that meet the National Construction Code (NCC) and Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010.

Alexandra (Sandy) Gray, a Qualified Access Consultant, architect, and educator with over 20 years of experience in inclusive design and public policy. Sandy holds a Diploma of Access Consulting, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and has contributed to the development of AS 4299 (Adaptable Housing Standard). Her background includes community architecture roles with various NSW councils and organizations, making her ideally suited for local projects.

The branch operates from Black Head on the Mid North Coast of NSW, with Sandy Gray working full-time from her home base. We serve the entire Mid North Coast area, including key locations such as Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Taree, Forster, and surrounding regions. This local presence allows for efficient on-site audits and consultations without the need for extensive travel.

The Mid North Coast Branch is our dedicated regional office in NSW, Australia, focused on delivering specialist accessibility consulting, audits, and inclusive design services to local communities, councils, and developers. Led by Qualified Access Consultant Alexandra (Sandy) Gray, it supports projects across the Mid North Coast region while also providing remote assistance to our Kuala Lumpur operations. This branch emphasizes practical, compliant solutions aligned with Australian standards like AS 4299 (Adaptable Housing) and AS 1428 (Design for Access and Mobility).