Lead-Free Transition Update: Industry Collaboration and Next Steps

The National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 – Volume Three (Plumbing Code of Australia) requires that all plumbing products associated with supplying drinking water be lead-free from 1 May 2026, marking the end of the three-year transition period.

Under these requirements, a plumbing product intended for use with drinking water must have a weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25 per cent.

Industry Concerns and Government Response

MPAQ, along with other key stakeholders, has raised concerns with the Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works and the Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth regarding industry readiness for the transition to lead-free products. As discussed with departmental representatives and mentioned by Assistant Minister Rebecca Young at the recent MPAQ Business Leaders Roundtable, the Queensland Government recognises the challenges associated with the proposed transition date and appreciates the advice provided by industry.

National Consistency and Queensland’s Position

Queensland continues to advocate for a harmonised national approach to the lead-free implementation arrangements. The Department has been asked by the Minister to continue working closely with the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to identify an appropriate, nationally consistent response to the issues raised. However, in the absence of national agreement, the Queensland Government will consider state-specific measures to ensure a smoother transition. Similar to the approaches taken in South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, any Queensland-specific arrangements may:

• Exempt installations that are subject to existing building approvals; and
• Provide a further transition period for all other plumbing work.

Next Steps and Industry Preparedness

Queensland’s preference remains for a consistent national approach, and the Department will provide further advice following further discussions. While some flexibility may be introduced, it is important to note that there remains a firm commitment to transitioning to lead-free plumbing products. To minimise redundant stock and potential financial impacts, MPAQ encourages all industry participants to familiarise themselves with the requirements and begin transitioning stock if this process has not already commenced.

The Department remains conscious of the need to provide clarity to industry and will continue to communicate updates as they become available. Further information on the lead-free requirements can be accessed below.

Lead-free requirements