Building ministers confirm start date for NCC 2022

The Building Ministers have confirmed that the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 will be published on 1 October 2022 with a start date of 1 May 2023.

Ministers also agreed to a transition period for the two major reforms, being livable housing and the 7-star energy efficiency and condensation provisions. This means these two parts of the code will not have legal effect until at least 1 October 2023.

How does the national decision impact states and territories?

While this decision provides certainty at a national level on when the vast majority of NCC 2022 will commence, being 1 May 2023, each state and territory will now publicly confirm whether they are adopting the livable housing and energy efficiency changes and when.

HIA understands that the Northern Territory government is intending to adopt the livable housing provisions, however they are still considering what changes may be made for energy efficiency in housing.

Why is a transition period needed?

The 2022 edition of the Code is the largest single amendment ever made in the 25 year history of the Code. For residential buildings, the scope of the changes are significant and it was critical for industry to have time to understand the new requirements and to advise customers.

HIA had sought a full 3 year transition period and while the decision is disappointing it does recognise that the industry needs time to adapt to such large changes that will impact every new home design in the Territory.

What do the new energy efficiency changes mean for the NT?

Ministers agreed to amend the existing energy efficiency requirements and increase the benchmark for building fabric to 7-stars and introduce a new ‘whole of house’ energy budget assessment.

Given the Northern Territory has been operating under the NCC 2009 5-star provisions, the Government is continuing to consider how the new standard will apply in the Territory.