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How to access HIA expert know-how

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Your questions, answered

What has changed in NCC 2025?
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NCC 2025 introduces changes across a range of areas, including energy efficiency, condensation management, waterproofing, fire safety and updated Australian Standards. Understanding which changes apply to your projects is essential to ensure your work remains compliant as the Code is adopted across Australia.

HIA's NCC 2025 hub brings together the latest updates, state and territory implementation information, practical guidance and expert resources in one place. Explore the full hub to understand what has changed, when the changes apply and what they mean for your business.

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What can I do if I'm owed money by a client?
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If you're owed money by an individual, there are several options available to help recover the debt, depending on the circumstances. In some cases, bankruptcy proceedings may be an option of last resort, while debts owed by companies may involve different legal processes. Understanding the available pathways can help you make informed decisions and protect your business.

Before taking action, it's important to understand which debt recovery option is right for your situation. Read the full article for an overview of the available processes, key considerations and practical guidance on recovering unpaid debts.

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How do I use AS 1684 for timber framing?
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AS 1684 Residential Timber Framed Construction is made up of four parts. Parts 2 and 4 apply to non-cyclonic areas, while Part 3 is used in cyclonic regions of northern Australia. Part 4 is the simplified version of the Standard, making it quicker to use, but it has important limitations around wind classifications, building dimensions and roof pitch.

Understanding which part of AS 1684 applies to your project is essential to ensure your timber framing complies with the Standard. Read the full article to compare each part and learn when the simplified approach is appropriate.

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How do I manage material cost increases?
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Material price increases can have a significant impact on the profitability of a project, particularly under fixed price contracts. Understanding your contract, the clauses it contains and the options available can help you manage rising costs and reduce the risk to your business.

From choosing the right contract to understanding rise and fall clauses, provisional sums and your obligations during construction, HIA's guide explains the practical steps builders can take when material costs change. Read the full article to learn more.

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How do I waterproof wet areas and stay compliant?
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AS 3740:2021 sets out the requirements for waterproofing materials, design and installation in domestic wet areas. It covers everything from approved waterproofing systems and materials to installation requirements for showers, baths, spas, floor falls and penetrations, helping ensure wet areas are built to meet the National Construction Code (NCC).

Understanding where waterproofing is required and how the Standard applies is essential for achieving a compliant outcome. Read the full article to explore the requirements, design considerations and practical guidance for waterproofing residential wet areas.

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Awards Employee conditions
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Want to know what to pay your worker who isnt covered by any other Award? Thinking of putting on an apprentice and need to know how much to pay them?
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In NSW, for builders and designers, find out what work is captured under the Design & Building Practitioners Act 2020.
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Contractors Disputes Contracts
Contractors rights to recover payment from a builder
Registered builders often work for other builders as a contractor. Whilst there are benefits to this arrangement, e.g. reduced paperwork and costs, it has its drawbacks. These include not being paid by the builder for the supply o...
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Superannuation Human Resources (HR) Staffing
Payday Super will impact your cashflow – find out how
Payday Super is a new Australian law, effective July 1, 2026, requiring employers to pay superannuation guarantee (SG) contributions at the same time as wages, rather than quarterly. It starts 1 July 2026.
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Pay Day Super rules: wages and super paid together
The Federal Government’s ’Pay Day Super’ changes will commence on 1 July 2026, dramatically altering the way employers pay superannuation.
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