Mark Vender
In response to the Coalition’s pledge to freeze the National Construction Code (NCC) for 10 years, a group of industry, built environment, and social sector stakeholders are calling on building ministers to reaffirm their commitment to the regular three-year review and update of the NCC.
The stakeholders emphasise the importance of implementing the next revision of the NCC in 2025 as planned, and increasing resources for the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to better address future changes.
“The NCC not only enhances productivity by reducing regulatory duplication but also guarantees quality and safety for those who live and work in our buildings,” says Alison Scotland, CEO of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC).
”Since its inception in the early 1990s, the NCC has aimed to streamline building regulations across states and territories, promoting efficiency and cost savings. However, as the landscape of construction evolves with new risks and technologies, it is vital that the NCC adapts accordingly.”
CEO of the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), Dr Cassandra Goldie, has also emphasised the importance of the NCC.
“Regularly updating building standards is essential to protect people’s health, safety, and quality of life as we face the climate crisis, an ageing population, and technological advances,” she says.
“Neglecting them will disproportionately harm those already facing limited access to safe, affordable, and healthy housing.
“Governments have a duty to ensure that today’s homes protect and benefit everyone – future renters and homeowners alike.”
CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia, Davina Rooney, says maintaining a regular update cycle for the NCC is essential to safeguarding Australia’s future.
“This code isn’t an old book of rules,” she says, “it’s a living standard that reflects the safety, resilience, and sustainability our buildings need to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We urge Building Ministers to continue supporting this critical work.”
CEO of the Property Council of Australia, Mike Zorbas, has also spoken up to clarify his organisation’s position.
“The Property Council has advocated for coordinated, cost-benefit adjusted and timely reviews of the National Construction Code since the 1990s,” he says.
“Our priority is ensuring the ABCB is properly resourced so it can conduct highly consultative regulatory impact statements and so that Code coordination can be improved.”
The joint statement can be found on the ASBEC website.
Photo by Katherine McCormack on Unsplash
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