Contents
Introduction
The NCC is Australia’s primary set of technical design and construction provisions. Since the 2019 changes, the code has undergone significant reforms. In 2025, new amendments and the NCC 2025 edition have reshaped compliance requirements for builders, developers, and contractors.
Key NCC 2025 Changes
- Energy Efficiency & Electrification
- Mandatory solar PV systems for certain residential and small commercial buildings.
- EV charging infrastructure: New developments must include switchboard capacity and conduit access for future chargers.
- Enhanced insulation and glazing standards; blower-door testing introduced in some states.
- Provisions for battery storage and micro-grid readiness.
- Condensation Management
- Vapour-permeable membranes required in wall systems.
- Drained and vented cavities mandated for walls, balconies, and roof spaces to reduce mould risk.
- Waterproofing & Drainage
- Stricter slope tolerances for balconies and flat roofs.
- Unified water-shedding rules across cladding, façades, and podiums.
- Accessibility & Safety
- NCC 2022 Amendment 2 (effective July 2025) aligns with updated Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010.
- Expanded requirements for exits, fire-resisting construction, and roof ventilation.
2019 vs 2025 NCC Changes Comparison
| Feature | 2019 NCC Changes | 2025 NCC Updates |
|---|---|---|
| Energy efficiency | Minimum insulation & glazing upgrades | Mandatory solar PV, EV readiness, blower-door testing |
| Condensation | Limited guidance | Vapour membranes + drained cavities required |
| Waterproofing | Balcony drainage clarified | Stricter slope tolerances + unified façade rules |
| Accessibility | Basic disability access | Expanded alignment with updated standards |
Implications for Builders & Developers
- Design Adjustments: Architects must plan for solar PV, EV charging, and electrification readiness.
- Cost Impacts: Compliance may increase upfront costs but reduce long-term energy bills.
- Risk Management: Failure to meet condensation and waterproofing standards could lead to defects and liability.
- Accessibility Compliance: Projects must integrate updated disability access provisions to avoid non-compliance penalties.
FAQs
Do I need EV charging in my new development?
Yes, NCC 2025 requires infrastructure readiness for EV chargers in new builds.
Are solar panels mandatory?
For certain residential and small commercial projects, solar PV installation is now compulsory.
What happens if condensation rules are ignored?
Non-compliance can lead to mould, structural damage, and liability under NCC enforcement.
Conclusion
The NCC has evolved significantly since 2019. The 2025 updates mark the biggest shift in energy efficiency and electrification standards, alongside stronger rules for condensation, waterproofing, and accessibility. Builders and developers must adapt quickly to remain compliant and competitive.
Lorri is a director of PDC Law. Lorri combines excellent technical expertise with a common-sense approach to best represent her clients. She is one of few Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. This accreditation is testament to Lorri’s expert knowledge and skill in dealing with commercial disputes. In 2019 Lorri was awarded Regional Lawyer of the Year by Women Lawyers Achievement Awards.
