Australians reach new heights with Enzie Stairs’ design for the taller generation

The Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, is concerned about the economic effects of Australians living longer but he should also be looking at the fact that we are "getting longer".

Research by University of South Australia academics Kevin Norton and Tim Olds shows that the average height of the population has been increasing by about one centimetre per decade over the past century — a trend that shows no sign of easing.

This has implications for everything from beds and baths to bench heights and ballgowns. Indeed, Standards Australia has had to review clothing sizes because of the upward trend, and the building industry will also have to take a look at its specifications.

A designer and manufacturer of modular spiral stair systems, Bryan Mackenzie, says: "When I was a young bloke, six feet (183 centimetres) was considered tall. These days someone would have to be getting close to seven feet to stand out."

His company, Enzie Stairs, has modified its designs — incorporating higher handrails and greater headroom — to take into account this national growth spurt.

"Our stair system has won design awards for innovation, aesthetics, practicality and safety. However, it's an indication of how things have changed over the 30 years we have been in business that we have upgraded safety to accommodate a taller population."

Researchers say there are various factors in Australians reaching new heights. Improved nutrition over the 20th century might have played a part, however tall people do tend to interbreed, and their tall children help to push up the national average.