Agreement has been reached on the implementation date for the National Building Code obligations, marking a significant step forward in improving the quality of new homes built across the state. From 1 October 2024, all new homes built in South Australia will be required to meet higher minimum energy efficiency standards, raising the benchmark from the current six-star rating.
There will also be a greater emphasis on accessible design considerations to ensure that people with mobility impairments can move seamlessly through different stages of life in their own homes. These changes are designed to raise the standard of living for South Australians and address the need for more sustainable homes in the face of a changing climate.
This shift not only promotes greener living spaces, but also promotes inclusivity by giving people with disabilities the dignity of independent living. In line with the National Consensus adopted at the Building Ministers' Meeting on 26 August 2022, the announcement of a commencement date of 1 October 2024 underscores the commitment to improving the quality of the state's housing stock.
The introduction of seven-star energy efficiency regulations will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve year-round comfort and reduce the cost of living through energy efficiency measures that are expected to offset initial construction costs. At the same time, new accessibility standards will provide easier access for people with disabilities and older residents, with features such as wider doors, hallways and step-free access being incorporated into new home designs.
By incorporating these standards from the outset, the aim is to reduce the need for costly retrofitting of mobility-related home adaptations in the future, which can be up to 22 times more expensive. The state's housing agencies, Renewal SA and the South Australian Housing Authority, are already building to the National Building Code in their new developments.
The decision to implement these provisions was the result of a collaborative effort involving a range of stakeholders, including the housing industry, climate change advocates, disability rights groups and representatives of the aged care sector. In recognition of the unique circumstances facing South Australia, a two-year transition period and exemptions have been introduced to ease the transition for the building and construction industry.
Going forward, the Malinauskas Labor Government, in partnership with the Australian Building Codes Board, will provide ongoing support to ensure the seamless implementation of the new regulations, promoting a more inclusive and sustainable built environment for all South Australians.
Keywords: Building Standards, Accessibility, Energy Efficiency