The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) has agreed to limit the allowable lead content in plumbing products, which contain copper alloys and are intended for use in contact with drinking water, to a weighted average lead content of not more than 0.25% through an amendment to NCC 2022 Volume Three.

NCC 2022 will specify new requirements for any plumbing product containing copper alloy and intended for use in contact with drinking water, as well as the means for demonstrating evidence of suitability to those requirements. A 3-year transition period for this amendment was agreed, with new requirements being enacted on 1 September 2025.

From 1 September 2025, only products conforming to the lead free provisions, where required, will be authorised for use in plumbing installations. Only products that conform to the new lead free requirements as set out in NSF/ANSI/CAN 372-2020 will be authorised for use in a plumbing system. Products that do not conform to the lead free provisions will not be authorised for use in contact with drinking water and any such certification will no longer be valid.

This Implementation Plan (plan) has been developed by the ABCB Office as a roadmap for the transition process. The plan sets out the key milestones and review points for installation and enforcement and has been developed in consultation with affected stakeholders. It has been informed by consultation with industry and aligns with existing state and territory regulation and administrative processes to the greatest extent possible.