New requirements for the building and construction industry to improve the energy efficiency and accessibility of new ACT buildings will now come into effect on 15 January 2024, rather than next month, as originally intended.

“This timing change is unfortunately due to circumstances beyond the ACT Government’s control,” Rebecca Vassarotti, ACT Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction, said.

“The software to measure energy ratings under the new House Energy Rating Scheme has not been delivered by the Commonwealth Government.

“Because of this, we have had to change the timing around the implementation of the National Construction Code in the ACT.

“The additional time will give the building and construction industry a greater opportunity to become familiar with the new software and to undergo training allowing industry to ensure new building designs meet the 7-star energy efficiency and whole of home energy use provisions.

“Let me make it clear: as the responsible Minister, I am committed to implementing the updated National Construction Code in full.

“The ACT is leading the country in the implementation of these improved standards, adopting the changes as quickly as it technically possible and not delaying implementation in ways that other jurisdictions have chosen to do.

“We are proud to be leading the way in ensuring that homes are designed in ways that respond to community need and are better for the planet.

“The new requirements outlined in the 2022 edition of the National Construction Code will positively impact the lives of Canberrans by addressing liveable housing standards and energy efficiency in ACT buildings.

“Throughout our city’s history, Canberrans have been rightfully vocal about their expectations for high quality development.

“As a Government, we share these expectations and are committed to delivering high-quality projects for our community.

“While not required until January 2024, those buildings which are currently being designed to meet the new NCC 2022 energy efficiency and liveable housing standards will exceed the existing requirements and can still be approved under existing arrangements.”

The new requirements include:

• Residential energy efficiency (increasing the minimum level of thermal performance of new homes to the equivalent of 7 stars and a new whole of home energy use budget).
• New and improved condensation management provisions.
• Commercial building energy efficiency (requiring certain buildings to have features that facilitate the future installation of on-site renewables and electric vehicle charging).
• Liveable housing design – introducing requirements to improve accessibility now and making making it easier and cheaper to adapt houses in the future to be more accessible.

The National Construction Code is amended every three years by the Australian Building Code Board (ABCB) that conducts extensive industry and community engagement to inform each new amendment.

Visit the Build Buy Renovate website for more information about the implementation of the NCC 2022 in the ACT.

To learn more about the National Construction Code, and the consultation undertaken by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to inform NCC 2022, visit the Australian Building Codes Board website.