Building regulatory framework

We regulate Victoria's building industry, which is governed by the Building Act 1993 (the Act). The Act sets out the framework for the regulation of building construction, building standards and the maintenance of specific building safety features.

The objectives of the Act are to:

• protect the safety and health of people who use buildings and places of public entertainment
• improve the amenity of buildings.

Other acts that apply to the building industry include:

• Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995
• Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 2002

Building regulations

The Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations) came into effect on 2 June 2018. The Regulations are subordinate legislation of the Building Act and include requirements relating to:

• building permits
• building inspections
• occupancy permits
• enforcement
• maintenance of buildings

The Regulations adopt the Building Code of Australia (BCA), which is part of the National Construction Code .

Victoria’s building regulations generally have a ten-year shelf life before undergoing a comprehensive review to ensure they remain fit for purpose and meet intended objectives. We are a key stakeholder in the review and implementation of the Regulations.

See also the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Regulations 2023 .

National Construction Code (NCC) 2022

The National Construction Code (NCC) sets out the requirements for the design and construction of buildings in Australia, including plumbing and drainage work. It establishes the minimum required level for safety, health, amenity, accessibility, and sustainability.

• Volume One: relates to Class 2 to 9 buildings
• Volume Two: relates to Class 1 and 10 buildings
• Volume Three: relates to plumbing and drainage work for all building classes

NCC 2022 was adopted by states and territories on 1 May 2023.

Learn more on the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 web page .

Building Code of Australia (BCA)

The Building Code of Australia (BCA) provides technical provisions for the design and construction of buildings and other structures through the NCC. It allows for state variations to address specific requirements or community expectations, defining performance outcomes rather than prescribing specific methods.