The National Construction Code (NCC) is updated every 3 years. The lifecycle of the NCC is continuous and at any point in time the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) will be at a stage in this cycle.

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The National Construction Code, or NCC, is Australia’s primary set of technical design and construction provisions developed and maintained by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).

The NCC includes the Building Code of Australia, the Plumbing Code of Australia and the Housing Provisions, as well as ABCB Standards.

The ABCB updates the NCC in three-year cycles. So, how does this work?

Stage 1 – Research, investigation and content development

The ABCB considers changes based on public feedback, industry research and trends, and ministerial policy direction. Suggestions can be submitted any time as a Proposal for Change, or PFC.

All major changes go through some form of impact analysis to help decision makers understand the costs, benefits and impact of the proposed change.

Stage 2 – Proposed content confirmed

All proposed changes are presented to the ABCB’s Building Codes Committee and Plumbing Code Committee for technical review and consideration.

Stage 3 – Editing, drafting and publication

About halfway through the cycle, proposed changes are prepared as a draft for public consultation. This is known as a Public Comment Draft, or PCD. The PCD is endorsed by the Board before publication.

Stage 4 – Public comment

The PCD is the last opportunity in the NCC development process for public feedback. This stage is focused on seeking comment about the changes that have made it through earlier stages, rather than gathering new ideas for further change.

We may publish a separate report for key changes to further explain their impacts.

Super: Stage 5 – Finalising changes

After we consider feedback from consultation, the Board receives the final draft of the NCC for endorsement. Building Ministers from the commonwealth and jurisdictions are responsible for providing final approval, and an official adoption date of the new NCC.

Super: Stage 6 – Publishing

Prior to adoption, the ABCB publishes a preview of the new edition to allow users to familiarise themselves with changes. We also prepare a wide range of information and education resources to help users understand these changes.

Super: Stage 7 – Commencement

Once the new NCC is officially adopted, we start on the next edition. The cycle recommences at stage 1.

For more information, visit abcb.gov.au/NCC-lifecycle