An update from Consumer, Building and Occupational Services:
As of 1 October 2025, Stage 2 of the phased implementation of the Livable Housing Design Standard is now in effect in Tasmania.
The phasing of provisions are outlined in the Director’s Determination – Application of Part H8 of the National Construction Code (NCC).
This staged approach is designed to give building service providers adequate time to adjust to the new requirements and apply them effectively within the Tasmanian context.
The implementation stages are:
Requirements in effect since 1 October 2024:
- Minimum clear opening width for entry doors to dwellings
- Hobless or flush entry showers
- Reinforced walls in bathrooms and sanitary compartments to support future installation of grab rails
Requirements that commenced on 1 October 2025:
- Minimum internal door and corridor widths to improve accessibility
- Circulation space requirements within sanitary compartments
Final phase of implementation (from 1 October 2026):
- All remaining provisions under the Livable Housing Design Standards, completing the staged rollout
While the latest round of phasing in of provisions commenced from 1 October 2025, section 11(5) of the Building Act 2016 permits an exemption from certain provisions of the National Construction Code to work if:
- The certificate of likely compliance issued in respect of the work was issued before the relevant provision of the National Construction Code was adopted by the State; or
- The building surveyor, or relevant permit authority for the work, certifies in writing that substantial progress had been made in the design of the work before the provision was adopted by the State.
It is recommended you discuss any of these issues with your engaged building surveyor.
To support industry understanding of the Standard, Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS), in collaboration with the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS), has developed a training video detailing the requirements.
Livable Housing Design Training Video 2025
This training video is eligible for 2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.
We encourage all building professionals to view the webinar to stay informed and ensure compliance with the Standard.
If you have any questions or require further information, please email CBOS.info@justice.tas.gov.au or phone 1300 654 499.
Cover image: Isabel and Elsie: Homes Designed to Nurture Women and Children’s Wellbeing and Recovery from Homelessness | Christopher Clinton Architect with Core Collective Architects | Photographer: Adam Gibson