December CEO Update - Adrian Piani

As 2025 draws to a close, I'd like to reflect on the ABCB's work over the past 12 months and share my perspective as the new CEO. In my first few weeks, I've already seen the strong sense of purpose and collaboration that drives our work. 

This year, the ABCB advanced priorities set by Building Ministers, commenced work on a national certification scheme for manufacturers of prefabricated construction, and prepared for major projects in 2026. A significant change was our move to Treasury in July, strengthening our alignment with the Australian Government’s housing agenda. 

I've been working closely with our Board Chair and the leadership team to understand priorities and prepare for 2026. Activities completed this year position us well for what's next. 

I'd like to thank all our stakeholders for your engagement throughout the year. We value your participation, whether through consultation, committees or working groups. Your contributions are vital, and I look forward to working with you to deliver meaningful outcomes in 2026.

Treasury has released a discussion paper seeking views on how to modernise and improve the National Construction Code (NCC). This is your opportunity to help shape how the NCC looks in the future.

You can read the discussion paper and provide your feedback via Treasury's consultation hub. The consultation closes on 6 February 2026. 

At its meeting on 10 November, the Board considered decisions arising from the Building Ministers' Meeting in October. Key discussions included:

• the roadmap for finalising NCC 2025
• development of guidance for voluntary embodied carbon
• the transition to lead-free plumbing products

The Board also noted outcomes of public consultation on the National Voluntary Certification Scheme for Manufactures of Modern Methods of Construction issues paper and reviewed progress on the development of definitions for prefabricated construction.

Read more in the Public record: Board Meeting 2025 - 4.

Our team is preparing preview drafts for NCC 2025, scheduled for publication on 1 February 2026 following Building Ministers' agreement in October. These drafts will help practitioners familiarise themselves with the next edition before it's adopted by jurisdictions. State and territories can consider adoption from 1 May 2026.

For more information on amendments in NCC 2025, read the Public Record from the ABCB's November Board meeting. You can also review a summary of substantial changes compared to the National Construction Code 2025 Public Comment Draft. 

If you're on our mailing list, we'll notify you when the NCC 2025 preview is published. If you would like to receive regular ABCB updates, complete the subscription form on our website. 

The ABCB Office will be closed from 25 December – 1 January for the end of year break. During this time, you can still submit online enquiries through our help and support page, and we will review them when the office reopens. We kindly ask for your understanding with response times over the holiday season.

As we move into the new year, I look forward to progressing key initiatives and delivering strong outcomes for industry and communities.

On behalf of the ABCB, thank you again for your support and collaboration. I look forward to connecting with you in the new year. 

Wishing you a happy and safe festive season. 

Adrian