Understanding the new changes to the National Construction Code that were introduced in May 2024 can be a daunting task.
With State to State variations, different jurisdictions and varying climate zones, terminology and construction practices it can leave even a seasoned designer’s head spinning. The below summary aims to provide a general overview of the changes for Victoria only. Please note, it’s been simplified for general information purposes only and we recommend always discussing site specific queries with the Green Rate Team.
Current Requirements (NCC2019)
Currently, new houses in Victoria are generally required to:
- Achieve 6 stars OR comply with an Deemed to Satisfy report
- Install either a rainwater or a solar hot water heater
Alterations and additions developments are required to comply with the NCC to varying degrees, dependent on the percentage of alteration/addition when compared to the original dwelling and what is considered practical/feasible.
Upcoming Changes (NCC2022)
Building Shell Assessment
New houses will be required to achieve the equivalent of 7 stars via their compliance pathway (NatHERS, elemental provisions etc). In addition to this, they will also need to meet heating and cooling load limits.
Whole of Home Assessment
A Whole of Home assessment will be required for each house which assesses how much energy a house is expected to use annually, with a limit on the amount of energy able to be used. The Whole of Home assessment will consider the following:
- type of heating and cooling equipment
- type of hot water system
- lighting
- use of swimming pools and spas
- onsite renewable energy (PV systems)
To pass the Whole of Home assessment, a new house will be required to achieve a score of 60 out of 100 (the annual net energy use budget). A home with a score of 100 out of 100 is considered to be a carbon neutral house. The use of more efficient appliances and PV systems will increase the score, while the use of less efficient appliances and additional energy use items such as pools and spas will decrease the score. When undertaking the Whole of Home assessment, the Green Rate team will be able to give reliable, practical advice to achieve compliance.
Approval Pathways
The two main approval pathways are:
- Use of home energy rating software to produce a NatHERS Certificate (Energy Report). This will include the 7 star and the Whole of Home assessment
- Preparation of a Deemed to Satisfy (Elemental Provisions) Report. This will specify the insulation and glazing performance values to an equivalent 7 star level, as well as the Whole of Home assessment.
Please note, there are other approval pathways available, the above is just a snapshot of the most commonly used.
Alterations and Addition Requirements
Alterations and Additions will be assessed similarly to the NCC2019 with the level of compliance dependent on the extent of the alteration or addition. The Project RBS will be ultimately responsible for allowing a dispensation, however the below table can be used as a general guide:
Approval Pathways for Alterations and Additions
For assessment of the building shell, there are now three main approval pathways available:
Rating of the Renovated Home Only using home energy rating software (new pathway)
Preparation of a Deemed to Satisfy (Elemental Provisions) Report (existing pathway)
Assessment of the Existing and Proposed House using home energy rating software (average star rating formula method, existing pathway)
