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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationNew Queensland building reforms a win for housing supply
New Queensland building reforms a win for housing supply
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HIA Executive Director Queensland, Michael Roberts, said the reforms addressed many of the practical concerns the industry had raised regarding the cost and complexity of recent building regulation changes.
"These reforms demonstrate that it is possible to maintain important standards while also recognising the practical realities of home building," Mr Roberts said.
"HIA has consistently advocated for a regulatory framework that delivers good outcomes for homeowners without imposing unnecessary costs, complexity and delays on the construction process."
The updated Modern Homes Standards include a range of practical amendments that will reduce compliance challenges while maintaining accessibility and energy-efficiency outcomes.
Among the changes are revised energy-efficiency requirements for raised-floor homes and homes under 50 square metres, a new ‘ramp-ready’ option for elevated homes, greater flexibility in accessible bathroom design, and practical solutions to address weatherproofing and termite-management requirements.
"These changes strike a more sensible balance between policy objectives and practical construction outcomes," Mr Roberts said.
"The residential building sector supports energy efficiency and accessibility in housing, but regulations must also be workable, cost-effective and reflect the diversity of homes built across Queensland."
Mr Roberts said the introduction of the Queensland Housing Code was equally significant and would help address long-standing inconsistency in housing design and siting requirements across local government areas.
"For many years, builders have had to navigate a patchwork of differing requirements between councils, creating additional complexity, delays and cost," he said.
"A contemporary Queensland Housing Code will provide greater consistency, certainty and efficiency for builders, designers and homeowners across the state.
"Consistency in housing rules is critical if Queensland is serious about improving productivity and increasing housing supply."
Mr Roberts said the reforms recognised recommendations of the Queensland Productivity Commission and reflected extensive feedback from industry participants.
"Queensland needs more homes, and achieving that requires a planning and building framework that supports rather than hinders delivery," he said.
"While there is always more work to do, these reforms represent a positive and practical step towards improving housing affordability and increasing the supply of new homes for Queenslanders," concluded Mr Roberts.
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New rules add thousands to the cost of a new home as Tasmania falls years behind on housing
From today, every new home built in Tasmania must meet the full Livable Housing Design requirements. The Housing Industry Association says this adds thousands of dollars to the cost of building a home, at a time when Tasmanians can least afford it.
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