The Morrison Government is partnering with Standards Australia to waive the fee for access to the bushfire construction standard, to support the recovery and rebuilding of bushfire ravaged communities.

This jointly funded partnership will provide all Australians with access to AS 3959:2018 - Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas - a key standard referenced in the National Construction Code through Standards Australia’s distributors - at no cost.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said that waiving this access fee was a simple and practical way to assist, and part of the broader range of measures being provided through the National Bushfire Recovery Agency.

“Australians who are rebuilding their lives or planning new construction following the recent devastating bushfires should not have to worry about the cost of ensuring that their families are protected under the latest bushfire standard,” Minister Andrews said.  

“We are pleased to be able to work with Standards Australia to ensure that this key standard is made available to everyone during the critical planning and rebuilding phase.

“I would also like to thank our peak standards body, Standards Australia, and its distributors – for making this initiative possible.”

The standard specifies requirements for the construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas in order to improve their resistance to bushfire attack from burning embers, radiant heat, flame contact and combinations of all three.

The recent bushfires have highlighted the need to ensure the safety of Australian lives, homes and property. Designing and constructing homes to the highest standard is an important means of protecting the interests of Australians during future bushfire events.

The AS 3959:2018 standard will be made available by Standards Australia until 30 June 2021 through its distributor’s websites.

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070