NCC 2025 adopted in Victoria 1 May 2026

In Victoria, from 1 May 2026, NCC 2025 will apply to all new building work. All three Volumes of the National Construction Code contain changes, including new content, updated referenced standards and revised state variations. 
 
An exception applies where an application for a building permit has been made to the Relevant Building Surveyor (RBS) to certify that “substantial progress” had been made on a design before the commencement date.

NCC 2025

NCC 2025 changes are primarily focused on the commercial building sector. However, there are new standards, processes and assessment methods that affect all buildings that the residential industry must stay across to remain compliant which are summarised below. 

Australian Standards

Dozens of new and revised Australian Standards become a compliance option on adoption of NCC 2025. They include key standards for wind loads for housing, swimming pools, timber framing and new External Insultation and Finish Systems (EIFS).

Other key changes include a new alternative referenced document register.

Governing requirements

NCC 2025 includes updates to the governing requirements that set out how the Code is applied, interpreted and complied with across building work.

Key changes and concepts include:

• changes to how reports from Accredited Testing Laboratory verify fire hazard properties
• a new verification method for structural solutions.

Victoria is not adopting changes to the code that would prohibit the use of Expert Judgement as an Assessment Method for fire and structural Performance Solutions.

Condensation management

NCC 2025 strengthens the minimum requirements for condensation management, with changes to external wall construction and roof ventilation to reduce moisture risk.

Key changes include:

• updated requirements for the permeance of control layers
• increased roof ventilation in colder climate zones
• mandatory use of drained and ventilated cavities in Climate Zones 6, 7 & 8
• reduced ventilation area requirements for small roofs.

Commercial energy efficiency

NCC 2025 introduces stricter energy efficiency requirements for Class 3 and Class 5–9 buildings, aiming to move these building types closer to near net-zero operational energy use.

Key changes include:

• higher efficiency requirements for air-conditioning, insulation, glazing and building sealing
• updated rules for lighting controls, pumps and fan efficiency
• where gas appliances are installed, buildings must allow space and electrical capacity for future electrification
• new compliance pathways for centralised water heating systems in apartment buildings.

External waterproofing

NCC 2025 Volume One (Class 2-9 buildings) contains new water management provisions that involve:

• a full restructure of Part F Performance Requirements
• new defined terms which change the scope of water managed by the part
• new DTS Provisions for external spaces including Class 2 apartment balconies constructed of concrete
• new falls in structural substrates for balconies made from concrete.

State variations

The Victorian government has introduced several changes to its variations. These include accelerating the state’s adoption of lead-free plumbing products. From 1 May 2026 all plumbing products installed that are in contact with drinking water must be lead-free to remain compliant.  This will apply for all installations from that date, even if contracts were signed prior.

To find out more, contact HIA's Contracts and Compliance team

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