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The Victorian State Government’s Building and Plumbing Commission has issued an Industry Alert confirming that National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 will commence in Victoria on 1 May 2026, making Victoria the first state to adopt the change. The ACT is scheduled to transition to NCC 2025 by 1 November 2026, while NSW and Queensland have deferred adoption until 1 May 2027. Adoption timelines for the remaining states and territories are yet to be confirmed.
This announcement represents an important regulatory change for building owners, designers and contractors operating across the state.
Lead‑free plumbing products — no transition period
Of particular significance is the confirmation that mandatory lead‑free plumbing product requirements will take effect from 1 May 2026, with no transition period.
From this date, plumbing products containing copper alloys and intended for use in drinking water systems must comply with a maximum weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25%. Products that do not meet this requirement will no longer be permitted for installation in potable water systems.
This places immediate responsibility on project teams to confirm product compliance, particularly where brass fittings, valves and in‑line components are specified or installed within potable water systems.
Reducing exposure to metals in drinking water
In light of this regulatory change, A.G. Coombs encourages building owners and project teams to review our Advisory Note, Reducing Exposure to Metals in Drinking Water.
The Advisory Note outlines practical measures to help manage lead risks in building plumbing systems, including:
- Selection of low‑lead and lead‑free plumbing materials
- Management of water chemistry to minimise corrosion and leaching
- Reducing stagnation risks within complex plumbing systems
- Implementing effective water quality monitoring and testing programs
These actions are critical to protecting occupant health while supporting compliance with NCC 2025 and the new lead‑free plumbing product requirements.
For more information
- Read the Advisory Note at agcoombs.com.au/news-and-publications/advisory-notes/reducing-exposure-to-metals-in-drinking-water
- Visit the Building and Plumbing Commission website at vba.vic.gov.au/plumbing/new-lead-free-plumbing-product-requirements
For further guidance or project‑specific advice, contact A.G. Coombs Advisory.
