The Australian Institute of Architects has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to abandon a complete pause on updates to the National Construction Code (NCC). The government’s commitment to proceed with the finalisation of NCC 2025 and to maintain the strong residential standards adopted in 2022 is a crucial step forward.
However, the Institute is seeking clarity on the government’s announcement that it will “pause further residential changes to the National Construction Code until the end of the National Housing Accord period (mid-2029),” following the finalisation of NCC 2025, and has met with the Minister’s office.
“We welcome the government’s decision to maintain safety and quality standards and proceed with NCC 2025,” said Adam Haddow, National President of the Australian Institute of Architects. “We also support the government’s commitment to building more houses, more quickly. There is a serious housing crisis in Australia and the three layers of government will need to work together to make this ambition feasible without compromising consumer safety and enduring quality. As architects we have an important role to play.”
The NCC is a cornerstone of Australia’s strategy for emissions reduction, construction productivity, and climate resilience. The Institute maintains that regular updates are essential for ensuring that new construction meets evolving community needs and delivers safer, healthier, and more efficient buildings.
The Institute continues to join other concerned industry members in calling for:
Swift and uniform implementation of NCC 2025 across all jurisdictions.
A clear national plan for ongoing NCC updates, aligned with emissions reduction commitments and community safety expectations.
Adequate resourcing for the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to maintain strong standards.
Support for the building sector, trades, and supply chains to meet new requirements at scale and least cost.
Full and consistent implementation of NCC 2022 across all jurisdictions.
The Institute will continue to advocate strongly to ensure Australia’s building standards are not compromised and that the NCC 2025 is rolled out effectively across all states and territories. Our message is clear: we owe it to the profession, industry, and communities to keep the NCC moving forward.
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Eva Scheerlinck
Head of Policy and Advocacy
Australian Institute of Architects
eva.scheerlinck@architecture.com.au
0438 678 858
Media releases sent in response to the suggested pausing of NCC updates:
National Construction Code – Safety First
NCC Pause would Damage Productivity
NCC Updates Essential