NCC and Standards
NCC 2022: What the 7-Star Energy Efficiency Requirement Means for Builders and Developers
NCC 2022 raised the minimum NatHERS rating for new houses from 6 to 7 stars and introduced a whole-of-home energy budget. This technical article explains what the changes mean for building design, product specification, and construction delivery.
The National Construction Code 2022 (NCC 2022) introduced the most significant changes to residential energy efficiency requirements in over a decade. This article provides a factual summary of the key changes — it does not constitute professional advice, and builders and developers should refer to the ABCB's published guidance and seek advice from a qualified NatHERS assessor.
The 7-star NatHERS requirement
NCC 2022 raised the minimum NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) star rating for new Class 1a buildings (houses and townhouses) from 6 stars to 7 stars. This applies to new buildings, not alterations and additions.
A 7-star NatHERS rating requires a higher level of thermal performance than a 6-star home. The specific measures required will vary depending on climate zone, building orientation, and design — but commonly include: - Improved ceiling, wall, and underfloor insulation - Higher-performance glazing (double glazing or thermally broken aluminium frames) - Reduced air infiltration through better sealing - Optimised building orientation and shading design - Careful selection of materials for thermal mass
Whole-of-home energy budget
NCC 2022 also introduced a whole-of-home energy budget for new Class 1 buildings. This limits the total annual energy consumption of the home — including heating, cooling, hot water, lighting, and plug loads — and encourages the use of energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy systems.
Impact on building products
The 7-star requirement has direct implications for the specification of building products: - Insulation: higher R-values required in walls, ceilings, and floors - Windows and doors: double glazing and thermally broken frames increasingly required in most climate zones - Cladding: selection of cladding products affects thermal performance - Air barriers: increased attention to air infiltration control
State and territory adoption
States and territories adopted NCC 2022 on different timelines. Most major jurisdictions have now adopted the 7-star requirement, with some transition provisions for projects in the pipeline at the time of adoption. Builders should confirm the applicable requirements with their state or territory building authority.
Practical implications for project delivery
The 7-star requirement affects the design and specification process — NatHERS assessments need to be completed earlier in the design process to allow for product selection and design optimisation. This aligns well with integrated design-and-construct delivery models where design and procurement are coordinated from project inception.
Source Note
Based on publicly available information from the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). Refer to abcb.gov.au for authoritative guidance.
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