Feb 2026 - This article has been updated to reflect the release of the NCC 2025 preview
Late last year Building Ministers finally signed off on the publication of National Construction Code 2025 (NCC 2025).
The final version of NCC 2025 is now available, with a start date of 1 May 2026. You can access the NCC 2025 preview here: https://www.abcb.gov.au/news/2026/ncc-2025-preview-now-available
States and Territories are yet to decide when NCC 2025 takes legal effect. It is likely that some will not adopt the changes on 1 May based on their decision to delay NCC 2022 last cycle.
In approving the new code, Building Ministers agreed to remove some of the proposed changes, particularly those impacting new housing and energy efficiency, to limit the impact on the construction costs for new housing.
Fortunately, the long-awaited changes that will support swimming pools have been retained. However the preview draft does include one key change to AS 1926.1: 2024.
The existing NSW variation overriding the 500mm setback rule has been included as a primary clause in NCC 2025. SPASA is extremely disappointed with this change being made without public consultation and we are now reaching out to state and territory governments to seek an exemption/variation.
What are the final NCC 2025 changes for swimming pools?
There are two key changes in NCC 2025 for swimming pools and spas:
The adoption of the 2024 version of AS 1926.1 – Safety barriers for swimming pools, and
The introduction of Clause H2D2(2) – A new sub-clause related to swimming pool drainage stating that Performance Requirement H2P4 is satisfied for swimming pool drainage if the swimming pool’s pumped discharge is discharged to the sanitary drainage system in accordance with AS/NZS 3500.2.
What new in AS 1926.1:2024?
AS 1926.1 is the primary standard for safety barriers around pools and spas. The 2024 amendment is the first major update since 2012. SPASA is a member of the Standards Committee and has worked to improve the standard and address a range of issues raised by industry.
The changes include:
Clearer definitions and diagrams: Updated figures, especially for non-climbable zones (NCZs) to reduce interpretation disputes.
Plants and trees in NCZs (industry first): New section permitting certain plants, trees and shrubs within the non-climbable zone (NCZ) provide clear and enforceable landscaping guidance for areas adjacent to internal and boundary barriers.
500 mm Setback (Clause 2.3.1): IMPORTANT CHANGE – NCC 2025 has been published with a change from the public comment draft. The last minute change means that the 2012 Ruling now adopted into Clause 2.3.1 of the standard confirming 500 mm setback does not apply to the boundary barrier has been overridden nationally.
Re-introduced 1,400 mm latch-release height minimum: Reduces gate latch reach-risk for young children.
Gate hardware reliability: Mandatory marking/identification for latches and hinges, together with higher-cycle durability testing, strengthens reliability and operational integrity.
Practical flexibility: Exemption pathway for combined structures forming a barrier, and a compliant alternative for windows used as barriers to indoor pools.
Glass barriers and testing: New Appendix G introduces alternative test methods for glass panels, complementing existing durability and strength tests.
The adoption of the 2024 standard by the NCC will impact the construction of new swimming pools after 1 May 2026, depending on when your state adopts the NCC and when the building approval is granted.
Initial advice from state and territory governments about the adoption of NCC 2025 and any proposed state variations indicates that most states will delay the 1 May 2026 start date.
What about existing swimming pools and spas?
SPASA is seeking advice from each state and territory to determine whether and when they may adopt the 2024 edition of AS 1926.1 for existing pools and spas. The change to NCC 2025 does not automatically mean the new standards applies to these pools, as they are controlled through different legislation.
Want to know more?
Keep an eye out for more information about SPASA member forums in your state and our guidance material that can help you understand the changes.
Got questions? Contact your SPASA Regional Manager at [email protected].
Members can buy a copy of AS 1926.1 at discounted pricing through your SPASA member portal - https://www.spasa.com.au/standards-australia