NCC 2025 released: a brief overview

The National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 has now been released, and the ACT has commenced the transition to the new code. With the new code comes additional ACT-specific provisions that may make it easier to apply the new requirements to existing homes when carrying out extensions or renovations.

Timing considerations

When lodging a Development Application, it is important that if the project is being designed under NCC 2022, builders ensure the Building Approval can still be issued prior to 1 May 2027, including any potential amendments, redesigns, delays, or resubmissions.

Below is a brief overview of some of the changes that will become mandatory following the transition period. 

ACT transition

• – Until 30 April 2027, you may use NCC 2022 OR NCC 2025.
• – From 1 May 2027, NCC 2025 becomes mandatory.

Volume two (Class 1 and 10 – performance)

What’s changed:

• – H2 – Damp and weatherproofing
• – H4 – Health and amenity
• – H6 – Energy efficiency

Takeaway: there is minimal technical change from NCC 2022.

Key risks:

• – Code selection errors
• – Performance Solutions scrutiny (A2G2, H1)

Housing provisions

Major ACT changes:

Passivhaus pathway (ACT H6D2 / H6D10)

• – PHPP modelling
• – Blower door testing

Area-weighted NatHERS (ACT H6D10)

• – Whole-of-home modelling required

Alterations:

ACT H6O10 / H6D10

• – Existing building performance must be assessed

Glazing concessions:

ACT H6D12

• – Curtains, pelmets, shutters allowed

Ongoing risks:

• – Waterproofing (10.2)
• – Condensation (10.8)

Volume one (Class 2–9)

Energy modelling:

J1V1–J1V3

• – Emissions replaced with energy use

New requirements:

• – Waste management (ACT F9 / F10)
• – Building over drains (ACT G10)
• – Accessibility concessions (ACT D1P0.1–D1P0.4)

Final Tyakeaway

• – NCC 2022 changed how we build
• – NCC 2025 tightens how we prove it
• – ACT 2026 changes how we choose the rules

Further information

• – Access the ACT’s Appendix to the Building Code here.
• – Access the full NCC 2025 here.

Master Builders ACT will continue to provide more detailed updates on the NCC. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Advisory team:

📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au