If you’re planning to build, renovate, or extend in Victoria, there’s one thing you can’t afford to overlook — the updated National Construction Code (NCC) 2022.
From May 2024, these changes became mandatory across Victoria, affecting everything from insulation levels to doorway widths. Whether you’re designing a dream home, upgrading an older property, or adding an extension, you’ll need to ensure your project complies. Here’s what you need to know before you get started.
1. Energy Efficiency Upgrades
The NCC 2022 introduces stricter thermal performance standards to help reduce household energy use and improve comfort.
What’s Changed?
- The minimum thermal performance requirement has been lifted from 6 stars to 7 stars under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
- New whole-of-home energy use requirements mean you’ll also need to consider the energy performance of appliances, hot water systems, lighting, and heating/cooling.
How This Impacts Your Design
To meet the 7-star standard in Victoria, you’ll likely need:
- Better insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings (higher R-values)
- Higher-quality windows — double glazing is now the norm, and frame materials matter for thermal performance
- Improved air tightness — sealing gaps to prevent drafts
- Smarter orientation — positioning living areas to maximise winter sun and minimise summer heat gain
2. Accessibility Requirements
The NCC 2022 now includes minimum accessibility features in new homes and certain extensions — part of the “Livable Housing Design” provisions.
What’s Required?
Key accessibility requirements include:
- Step-free entry into at least one entrance
- Wider internal doorways and hallways (minimum clear widths)
- Accessible wet areas — such as showers without steps and enough space for mobility aids
- Reinforcement in bathroom walls for future grab rail installation
Who Needs to Comply?
These requirements apply to most new Class 1a dwellings (houses and townhouses) and some renovations or extensions, depending on scope.
Why It Matters for Homeowners
Even if accessibility isn’t an immediate need, these changes can:
- Improve long-term liveability — making it easier to age in place
- Increase resale value by appealing to a broader market
- Reduce costly future modifications
3. Waterproofing and Ventilation
The NCC 2022 also updates waterproofing and ventilation requirements, aimed at improving building durability and occupant health.
Waterproofing Changes
- Stricter standards for wet areas like bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens
- More detailed documentation required for waterproofing membranes and installation methods
Impact: You’ll need a registered waterproofing contractor and more thorough detailing in construction drawings, which can increase design and documentation time.
Ventilation Requirements
- Enhanced requirements for mechanical ventilation in certain areas to reduce condensation and mould
- Minimum ventilation flow rates for exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries
Impact: In Victoria’s cooler months, poor ventilation can lead to condensation problems — the new standards aim to prevent this through better mechanical and natural ventilation strategies.
How These NCC Changes Affect Your Project Timeline and Budget
- Your building permit Victoria application must include all relevant compliance documentation — missing details can delay approval.
- Energy efficiency upgrades: Double glazing and higher insulation specs can add upfront cost but reduce long-term energy bills.
- Accessibility provisions: Wider door frames, step-free entries, and compliant wet areas can slightly increase construction costs, but future-proof your home.
- Waterproofing and ventilation: More robust materials and systems may have higher initial costs but reduce long-term maintenance risks.
Key Takeaways Before You Start
✔ Engage your designer early. They’ll ensure your concept design considers NCC 2022 compliance from the start.
✔ Budget for higher performance. Quality materials and systems pay off in energy savings, comfort, and durability.
✔ Think long-term. Accessibility features aren’t just about compliance — they’re about making your homework for you over decades.
✔ Factor in documentation time. More detail is required on the plans before permits are issued.
Your Next Step
If you’re planning a new home, renovation, or extension in Geelong or anywhere in Victoria, the updated NCC 2022 means there’s more to think about before the first sketch is drawn. Contact us today for an obligation-free design consultation and quote.