New code replaces rules unchanged for 15 years as state targets one million homes by 2044
The Queensland Government has released a new Housing Code and updated Modern Homes Standards, the first overhaul of the state's design and siting rules in more than 15 years, as part of its broader program to lift housing supply and reduce construction costs.
The new code sets contemporary and consistent design and siting standards for detached houses and secondary dwellings, covering building height, setbacks, privacy, car parking, site cover and private open space. It replaces provisions of the Queensland Development Code that had remained largely unchanged since 2010, which had resulted in three-quarters of councils applying different housing requirements across the state.
Local governments will be able to adopt the Queensland Housing Code during a three-year transition period beginning on 1 September, supported by guidance materials, implementation assistance and a streamlined planning scheme amendment pathway. The Modern Homes Standards amendments are proposed to commence on 14 August.
Key changes to the Modern Homes Standards include a reduced 5-star energy-efficiency rating for homes under 50 square metres, down from the current 7-star requirement, and a 6-star rating for homes with raised-floor construction such as traditional Queenslander-style homes. A new ramp-ready option for elevated homes allows a compliant ramp to be installed when required in the future, alongside greater flexibility in accessible bathroom design and a final extension of the narrow-lot exemption from liveable housing requirements until 30 September 2029.
"Queensland desperately needs more homes, but for too long, outdated and unnecessarily complex rules has made it slower and more expensive to build," said Sam O'Connor (pictured right), minister for housing and public works.
"Our new Queensland Housing Code delivers modern and consistent design and siting standards, giving builders, homeowners and councils greater certainty and helping applications move through the system more efficiently."
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) backed the reforms. "For many years, we've called for a contemporary, consistent Queensland Housing Code that replaces the patchwork of differing requirements builders face across local government areas," said Michael Roberts, HIA executive director Queensland. "Greater consistency means greater certainty for builders, designers and homeowners."
Master Builders Queensland also welcomed the changes. "Greater flexibility for small homes, raised-floor Queenslander-style homes and accessibility requirements will help reduce unnecessary costs for builders and consumers, and make it easier for industry to deliver the homes Queenslanders need," said Michael Hopkins, deputy chief executive of Master Builders Queensland.
"The new Queensland Housing Code is also an important step towards a more efficient and productive system that supports increased housing supply by simplifying approvals, reducing costs, and delivering greater certainty for everyone involved."
The Local Government Association of Queensland noted the importance of the transition arrangements. "The Queensland Housing Code provides councils with a contemporary framework that supports greater consistency while recognising the importance of local planning outcomes," said Alison Smith, chief executive of the Local Government Association of Queensland. "The transition period and implementation support will assist councils as they consider adoption of the Code within their communities."
The reforms implement recommendations from the Queensland Productivity Commission's final report into construction industry productivity, handed down on 21 January 2026, which found sector productivity had declined by 9% since 2018.
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