Coalition proposes scrapping building energy standards to cut construction costs

Australia's opposition Coalition plans to dramatically reduce the National Construction Code and eliminate energy efficiency requirements for new homes, a move critics warn will increase utility bills for low-income households.

First covered Aug 12, 2026 · 8:00 AM PT · 1 article

Coalition proposes scrapping building energy standards to cut construction costs — Image via theguardian.com

Coverage

6h Guardian Environment Coalition plan to scrap energy rules for new houses condemned as ‘cost-of-living timebomb’ — Proposal to cut building costs by scrapping the construction code would increase bills for the poorest households, critics say

More coverage from around the web

liberal.org.au Coalition Plan to Restore Living Standards and Protect Australians’ Way of Life - Liberal Party of Australia

aap.com.au Coalition's evidence doesn't show rules added $60,000 cost of building a home | AAP

canberratimes.com.au Coalition to outline cuts to migration, regulation | The Canberra Times | Canberra, ACT

iea.org Building Code of Australia - Energy Efficiency Measures – Policies - IEA

parliament.nsw.gov.au www.parliament.nsw.gov.au

Appeared in: 2026-08-12 (#8)

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