National Construction Code - What is it?

From 1 May 2011, the Australian Building Codes Board will start to publish the National Construction Code.

The National Construction Code is the new name for a series of technical codes that the ABCB will publish each year. Initially this will incorporate building and plumbing standards and eventually it is planned to include all on-site construction regulation including electrical installations and telecommunications.

From 2011, the NCC will include three volumes:

• Volume 1 – Building Code of Australia (BCA) Volume 1 (Class 2 to 9 buildings)
• Volume 2 – Building Code of Australia (BCA) Volume 2 (Class 1 and 10 buildings)
• Volume 3 – Plumbing Code of Australia

The 2011 editions of the Code will introduce various changes to both Volume 1 for Class 2 - 9 buildings and Volume 2 for Class 1 and 10 buildings (the Housing Provisions).

The main changes relate to the classification of buildings, accessibility, and timber framing requirements due to the BCA now referencing the revised Australian Standard for residential timber construction.

More information on these changes can be found in HIA’s information sheet – Proposed Changes to BCA 2011 – Volume 2.

In addition, for Victoria and Western Australia, the 6-star energy efficiency provisions will be adopted under Part 3.12 for Class 1 dwellings and Part J for Class 2 apartments.

The new Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) will be used by plumbers in all states and territories and will replace the current state plumbing regulations and codes.

Members wanting to find out more these changes and about the new Volume 3 Plumbing Code of Australia can attend seminars being arranged by the Australian Building Codes Board in your state. For more information on the seminars go to the ABCB webpage.

HIA members can contact HIA Building Services staff on hia_technical@hia.com.au or call 1300 650 620 to find out more about changes to BCA 2011.

Disclaimer: The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The contents do not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal specific advice should be sought by members with respect to particular matters before taking action.  ABN 99 004 631 752