AS 1428.1 compliant tool for ramp depth, gradient, rise and width — built by Ezy Access Solutions, Melbourne's accessibility ramp specialists.
AS 1428.1 is the Australian Standard for Design for access and mobility. It defines the maximum allowable ramp gradients for accessible, NDIS-funded and commercial wheelchair access. Choosing the correct gradient determines safety, compliance, and whether your installation qualifies for NDIS Home Modifications funding.
| Gradient | Use Case | AS 1428.1 Compliant? |
|---|---|---|
| 1:5 | Loading / steep transition (non-accessible) | No |
| 1:8 | Occupied wheelchair maximum (short distance only) | Limited |
| 1:10 | Comfortable for most users, short ramps | Limited |
| 1:14 | Recommended accessibility gradient | Yes |
| 1:20 | Preferred for long ramps, no handrail needed | Yes |
Vertical rise is the height from the ground level (or finished driveway/path level) up to the top landing or threshold. Measure with a spirit level laid across the top of the threshold, then drop a tape down vertically to the lower surface. Always take three measurements (left, centre, right) on uneven ground and use the largest value for your ramp design.
Width matters as much as rise. The absolute minimum for wheelchair use is 900 mm clear width, with 1000 mm recommended under AS 1428.1. For commercial or high-traffic ramps, design for 1200 mm to allow two-way travel and motorised scooter access.
Depth (horizontal run) is calculated automatically by this tool as rise × gradient ratio. For example, a 150 mm rise at a 1:14 gradient requires 2100 mm of ramp depth. For long runs over 1900 mm of continuous travel you'll also need a level landing at 1900 mm intervals and handrails on both sides.
If the available depth is constrained, consider splitting the ramp with an intermediate landing, or stepping the rise across two ramps with a level rest between them. Our team can design split-rise solutions on site.
Yes. NDIS Home Modifications funding regularly covers permanent and portable ramp installations under the Capital Supports budget. Ramps under $1,500 may qualify as Low-Cost Assistive Technology and only need a written quote and justification letter from your support coordinator. Larger or fixed ramps usually require an occupational therapist (OT) assessment and a formal Home Modifications request through your plan manager.
Speak to our team about NDIS-funded ramps — call (03) 7073 2121 or email sales@ezyaccesssolutions.com.au.
AS 1428.1 sets a maximum permanent ramp gradient of 1:14 for accessible, unassisted wheelchair use. Steeper gradients up to 1:8 are tolerated only for very short distances or transitional thresholds, and never as a primary access route. For occupied wheelchair use over any meaningful distance, 1:14 is the safe and compliant choice; 1:20 is preferred for longer runs because it eliminates the need for handrails.
Ramp length (depth/run) is calculated as rise × gradient ratio. For a 150 mm rise at 1:14, you need 2100 mm of ramp depth. At 1:8 the same rise needs only 1200 mm but is suitable for short transitions only. For NDIS-funded permanent installations, always design at 1:14 unless an occupational therapist signs off a shorter ratio for a constrained site.
Portable, non-fixed rubber ramps under approximately 190 mm rise generally do not require council approval in Victoria, as they sit on the ground without permanent fixing. Fixed timber or concrete ramps, ramps with handrails, or anything attached to the building usually do require a building permit. We recommend confirming with your local council before installing fixed access solutions.
Yes. NDIS Home Modifications funding regularly covers ramps. Items under $1,500 may qualify as Low-Cost Assistive Technology and need only a quote and a justification letter. Larger installations require an occupational therapist (OT) assessment and a formal home-modifications request through your plan manager. We work directly with OTs and plan managers and can supply compliant quotes within 60 seconds.
1:14 means 14 mm of horizontal run for every 1 mm of rise — a gentle, AS 1428.1-compliant gradient suited to unassisted wheelchair use. 1:8 is significantly steeper (8 mm run per 1 mm rise) and is only allowed for very short threshold transitions, typically under 190 mm rise. A 1:8 ramp is roughly 7 percent steeper and feels noticeably more strenuous; many users will need assistance.
Rubber ramps win on grip, weather resistance, and noise — they don't rattle under wheels, stay non-slip in the wet, and absorb impact. Aluminium is lighter and folds for transport but can be slippery, expands in heat, and produces noise. For permanent indoor or outdoor thresholds we recommend custom-cut rubber; for occasional travel use, fold-up aluminium has its place.
Under AS 1428.1, handrails are required on any ramp with a gradient steeper than 1:20 OR any ramp longer than 1900 mm of continuous travel. Ramps at 1:20 with travel under 1900 mm do not strictly need handrails. For elderly users or anyone with balance impairment we recommend handrails regardless — they significantly improve safety and confidence.
AS 1428.1 specifies a minimum clear width of 1000 mm between handrails for accessible ramps. The absolute minimum for any wheelchair use is 900 mm. For double-direction (two-way) use or motorised scooters, allow 1200 mm. Wider ramps also reduce the chance of caster overshoot at the edge and make manoeuvring easier for assistants.
Portable rubber threshold ramps under approximately 190 mm rise can be self-installed — they simply sit on the ground. Larger custom ramps, timber ramps, anything bolted down, and any ramp requiring handrails should be installed by a licensed accessibility specialist to ensure AS 1428.1 compliance and to validate NDIS funding. Our team installs across Melbourne metro.
Portable rubber ramp delivery is typically next-day for stock sizes and 5–10 business days for custom-cut units. On-site installation for custom rubber ramps or timber ramps usually takes 1–3 hours per ramp. Multi-ramp commercial fitouts are scoped per project. We provide installation booking confirmation within 24 hours of order.
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Cut-to-size moulded rubber ramps for any rise. AS 1428.1 compliant slopes available.
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Custom built timber ramps with non-slip surface, rebated edges, and handrails.
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Or call (03) 7073 2121 · ABN 80 324 917 531 · 5/5 Scanlon Drive, Epping VIC 3076