The 2016 National Construction Code (NCC) Volume Two of Australia, produced by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB), serves as a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to unify building and construction standards across the country. This code covers the design, construction, and performance of buildings and structures, including specific provisions for plumbing and drainage. The NCC is structured into three volumes: Volume One and Two focus on building requirements, while Volume Three deals with plumbing and drainage.
Volume Two of the NCC, specifically, addresses the requirements for residential buildings (Class 1 and 10a) and certain other structures, emphasizing the accessibility for people with disabilities where applicable. The Code is formulated to be flexible, offering Deemed-to-Satisfy Solutions as well as allowing for Performance Solutions, which enable the use of new or innovative construction techniques and materials while ensuring safety and compliance.
The ABCB oversees the NCC’s development, aiming to facilitate safety, health, amenity, and sustainability in building construction. This is achieved by ensuring that regulations are justified, effective, and create net societal benefits. State and Territory variations to the Code are permissible, reflecting local geographic and climatic conditions.
The NCC also includes guidelines on documentation for building decisions, particularly when Performance Solutions are applied, detailing the assessment methods and evidence used to demonstrate compliance. Overall, the NCC aims to provide a consistent, minimum necessary standard for building safety and performance across Australia, promoting efficient and effective regulatory practices and supporting innovation in the construction industry.
