The government will use the pause to streamline the code, including improving its usability with artificial intelligence, removing barriers and encouraging modern methods of construction, such as prefab and modular housing, and improving how code additions are developed.

Jim Chalmers confirmed alterations to the national code at last week’s productivity summit. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

Removing building red tape to speed up housing construction won’t cut corners on standards, Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said.

It is also looking to use AI tools to simplify and hasten approvals.

Removing impediments for superannuation investment in new housing and working with the states and territories to accelerate planning, zoning and approvals are also slated under the changes.

“We want builders on site, not filling in forms to get their approval,” Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said. Source: AAP / Joel Carrett

At the government’s Economic Reform Roundtable in Canberra last week, a simplification and tidy-up of the code attracted broad support, with few disputing the need for standards that work together better and are easier to navigate.

“This is a win-win roadmap to better housing supply,” he said.