National Construction Code 2022 — Key Changes for Residential Construction
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The National Construction Code 2022 (NCC 2022) introduced significant changes to residential construction requirements in Australia — including new energy efficiency standards, livable housing requirements, and updated provisions for condensation management and building products.
The National Construction Code 2022 was published by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and adopted by states and territories on a phased basis from May 2023. Key changes relevant to residential construction include:
Energy Efficiency (Section 13 / Section J)
NCC 2022 introduced significantly higher energy efficiency requirements for new residential buildings. Class 1 buildings (houses) are now required to achieve a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating (up from 6 stars). Class 2 buildings (apartments) have new whole-of-building energy efficiency requirements.
Livable Housing
NCC 2022 introduced mandatory livable housing requirements for new Class 1a buildings (houses) — requiring a minimum Silver level of the Livable Housing Australia Design Guidelines. Requirements include step-free access, wider doorways, and accessible bathroom provisions.
Condensation Management
New provisions for condensation management in wall and roof assemblies — relevant to the selection and specification of building products including insulation, membranes, and cladding systems.
Building Products
Updated provisions for the use of building products, including requirements for product compliance documentation and the use of products that have been assessed against relevant Australian Standards.
States and territories have adopted NCC 2022 on different timelines, with some variations in implementation. The ABCB publishes guidance on state and territory adoption at abcb.gov.au.
Relevance to Building Solution Australia
NCC 2022's higher energy efficiency requirements and livable housing provisions directly affect the design, specification, and procurement of building products — including the prefabricated components and systems supplied by Building Solution Australia's manufacturing and supply chain divisions.
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