Starting 29 July 2025, the latest NCC update, known as NCC 2022 Amendment 2, will officially take effect across all Australian states and territories, replacing Amendment 1 for any new building applications.
This update brings the National Construction Code (NCC) in line with the revised Premises Standards, incorporating the updated AS 1428.1:2021 – Design for Access and Mobility. These revisions stem from the Disability Standards changes introduced in November 2024.
For the official release and legislative details, see the National Construction Code 2022 page on the Australian Building Codes Board website.
Impact on Building Projects
- Enhanced Accessibility Requirements: Public and commercial buildings (Classes 2–9) must now comply with the accessibility provisions outlined in Part D4 of NCC Volume One, referencing AS 1428.1:2021.
- Application Timeline: Any new build or major renovation application submitted from 29 July 2025 onward must meet these requirements. Applications lodged before this date can continue using the prior standards.
Technical Changes
- Updates affect elements like sanitary facilities, ramp design, circulation spaces, doorways, tactile ground surface indicators, hearing augmentation systems, and signage.
- Differences between AS 1428.1:2009 and AS 1428.1:2021 include adjustments to grabrail lengths, access specifications, and improved clarity for compliance measures.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| Effective Date | 29 July 2025 (for new applications lodged on or after this date) |
| Scope | NCC 2022 Amendment 2 (superseding Amendment 1) |
| Key Integration | Disability Premises Standards referencing AS 1428.1:2021 |
| Applies To | New builds & major refurbishments under NCC Volume One Part D4 |
| Main Changes | Enhanced accessibility standards, signage, tactile wayfinding, sanitary upgrades |
What Practitioners Should Do
- Review design work and applications lodged after 29 July?2025 to ensure compliance with AS?1428.1:2021 access requirements.
- Update client briefs and internal design templates to reflect amended accessibility clauses and features.
- Engage early with certifiers and accessibility consultants to avoid compliance issues in approval processes.
By staying informed and adapting early to these changes, building professionals can ensure smooth approvals, maintain compliance, and deliver projects that meet Australia’s evolving accessibility standards.
