In a significant announcement yesterday, the Australian government confirmed a pause on non-essential changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 until mid-2029, extending the current NCC 2022 standards for residential buildings. Here’s how this affects your projects and what you need to know.
Key Changes Under the Delay
- Current Standards Remain: NCC 2022 provisions (e.g., 7-star NatHERS, Whole-of-Home assessments) still apply.
- Exclusions: Essential safety, quality, and accessibility updates will proceed.
- No New Requirements: No new residential energy efficiency or sustainability requirements will be introduced until 2029.
What stays the same?
- State-Specific Rules: BASIX (NSW), NABERS, and other state-level requirements remain in force.
- Commercial Building Standards: Section J (energy efficiency) and other commercial provisions are unaffected by the residential pause.
- 7-Star NatHERS + Whole-of-Home: remain critical for compliance under NCC 2022.
The Path Ahead
While the NCC 2025 delay extends regulatory stability, Australia’s transition toward sustainable buildings remains inevitable. At V-Star Energy, we’re here to help you navigate current standards, leverage cost-saving opportunities, and prepare for the next wave of changes. For now, stakeholders should:
- Invest in Energy Efficiency: Voluntarily to future-proof assets.
- Advocate for Pragmatic Reforms: During consultation periods.
- Monitor ABCB Announcements: For safety-related updates.
Conclusion
The government will use the pause to simplify the NCC and align future updates with housing goals. For now, stakeholders should stay informed and proactive.
Further reading – link to the media release
Need guidance? Contact us at info@vstarenergy.com.au for a no-obligation quote.
Building Thermal Rating Assessors 