Glass half full as Minister delays energy efficiency changes

19 September 2023

Master Builders has welcomed the delay of the energy efficiency changes to the construction Code, however, is disappointed the Queensland Government is forging ahead with the other significant changes in just over a week.

Earlier today Minister Mick de Brenni announced the energy efficiency changes will have an extended transition to 1 May 2024 as the software used to measure energy ratings was still not ready.

While the government has listened to the industry’s concerns, Queensland is the lone state moving ahead with a 2023 introduction of livable housing changes.

The rules were only finalised today, a little more than a week from the 1 October start date, and there has been a lack of sufficient education and awareness for industry and consumers.

Master Builders CEO Paul Bidwell reiterated that now is not the time to introduce changes that will increase the cost of housing, while the state faces a housing crisis.

“We are disappointed that the Minister didn’t delay the livable housing requirements, as there is a lack of practical information available to licensed builders and trade contractors on how to implement the changes without incurring significant costs. Changes that commence in just 11 days.

“How can licensees comply with substantial changes to the way houses must be built when information has not been issued to them ahead of the changes commencing on 1 October.”

Mr Bidwell said the Queensland Development Code is being published on 19 September (today), which will contain some of the details builders need, but there is still nothing available on the QBCC website.