Have your say on legislation to freeze National Construction Code

A nation leading freeze on changes to the National Construction Code is now underway by the Tasmanian Government.

This decision will reduce red tape and help avoid unnecessary costs and delays in the construction of new housing across the State.

Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer affairs, Guy Barnett, said the changes will provide greater certainty for the building and construction industry.

“Construction businesses, in every corner of the state, are the backbone of our industry,” Minister Barnett said.

“To help formalise the freeze and ensure everyone has an opportunity to provide input into the legislation, the Government is commencing consultation on draft Building Amendment Bill 2025.

“In taking this step, Tasmania is delivering more clarity for builders, developers and homeowners.

"It shows we're taking a sensible, balanced approach – making sure we can build the homes we need now, while planning carefully for future rules.

“By listening and working together with industry our Government is delivering for Tasmanians and this  freeze means builders can focus on what they do best, building new homes.”

Importantly, this change is backed in by the industry.

Master Builders Tasmania CEO Jenna Cairney said this legislated freeze will provide important certainty to industry and home builders that the standards can’t be changed overnight on the whim of the Federal Government.

“Hitting a legislated pause on all new residential code changes will help to reduce red tape, save home builders money, and hopefully result in more houses being built by our workforce,” Ms Cairney said.

The Housing Industry Association, Executive Director – Tasmania, Benjamin Price, said HIA strongly supports the Tasmanian Government’s nation-leading decision to pause the adoption of changes to the National Construction Code.

“This practical approach provides certainty for builders and suppliers at a time when housing affordability and supply remain critical challenges across the state,” Mr Price said.

“The Tasmanian Government is leading the nation with this sensible decision
“Freezing NCC changes means builders can focus on delivering homes for Tasmanians, rather than navigating new layers of complex regulation that add cost and delay.

“This move backs the thousands of small construction businesses that are the backbone of our industry and our economy.

“It reflects a balanced approach to building regulation –  one that supports housing delivery today and manages future regulation appropriately.”

A copy of the Bill and details on how to make a submission are available on the Department of Justice website.

Submissions close on January 16.