It goes without saying that fire safety is paramount in Australian building design. In a country that has always been prone to extreme weather, which is now being exacerbated by climate change, the imperative to design with fire-resistant materials is becoming increasingly significant. 

It’s with this backdrop that the new changes to National Construction Code 2025 are being released. And while there are sweeping revisions expected to many aspects of building design, one of the most pertinent areas is in the updates to fire performance requirements for architectural linings, the materials used to enhance interior walls and ceilings.

SUPAWOOD, a leading Australian manufacturer of sustainable architectural linings, is well-prepared for these changes – and offers solutions that meet and exceed the new standards.

NCC 2025 fire compliance: Key changes and implications

The major change for designers and specifiers to be aware of here is the requirement for fire assessments to be conducted by laboratories accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) or International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and certified to ISO 17025. Currently, while NATA accreditation is often preferred, it's not strictly mandatory for all fire tests related to building materials and systems. This means that in some cases, laboratories might conduct testing without formal NATA accreditation. 

Secondly, there has long been ambiguity surrounding the use of AS 3837 cone calorimeter tests for acoustic timber products – namely, whether the standard, which is designed to test solid timber products, is suitable for acoustic products. This ambiguity has led to differing opinions within the industry, with some stakeholders advocating for the use of AS 3837 while others use ISO 9705 test results and the assessments based on these, as dictated by AS5637.1. NCC 2025 will mandate the use of ISO 9705 full room tests, and the assessments based on these for acoustic products, providing a more accurate assessment of fire performance in real-world scenarios.

For architects and designers, these changes mean a greater need for diligence in selecting compliant materials and working closely with manufacturers to ensure products meet the updated standards. Builders may also face challenges in sourcing compliant materials and ensuring that their installations adhere to the stricter regulations, potentially impacting project timelines and costs.

SUPAWOOD's proactive approach to compliance…

As a leading supplier of premium architectural lining systems for many years, SUPAWOOD has always prioritised fire safety, with a long history of using reputable laboratories like Warrington Fire and Branz for their fire assessments. This proactive approach means that SUPAWOOD's current product range – including the innovative SUPAMicro panels – already meets or exceeds the NCC 2025 requirements. This foresight and commitment ensure that architects, designers, and builders can specify SUPAWood products with complete confidence, knowing that they are compliant and safe. 

… and beyond

But SUPAWOOD’s proactive stance isn’t reflected solely in fire safety – the manufacturer recognises that while fire safety is critical, sustainability is equally important. That's why they source their raw materials locally. By doing this, the SUPAWOOD can significantly reduce the environmental impact of transportation and support a lower carbon footprint, while also bolstering the Australian economy and contributing to local communities. These sustainable practices extend beyond material sourcing to include energy-efficient manufacturing processes and a commitment to minimising waste. SUPAWOOD’s signature SUPAMicro panels, made from PEFC or FSC®-certified timber, are a testament to this commitment, offering a high-performance acoustic solution with minimal environmental impact – and maximum consideration for fire safety compliance. 

SUPAWOOD further demonstrates their dedication to transparency and sustainability by providing Declare labels for their products. As every architect, designer and specifier will know, these labels offer a clear and comprehensive breakdown of the materials used, empowering them to make informed choices that align with their environmental goals. This dedication to transparency is also evident in SUPAWOOD's Sustainable Business Model. This model ensures that the company meets all Declare, Green Star, and NABERS requirements, fostering an open and honest collaboration with industry professionals.

The importance of fire safety in building design cannot be understated, and the rigorous updates to the NCC 2025 are a fitting reflection of wider community and industry values in that regard. But for SUPAWOOD, this level of adherence to safety and quality is nothing new. Their dedication to both fire compliance and sustainability makes them a valuable partner for architects, designers, and builders seeking to create safe, and environmentally responsible spaces – and by choosing SUPAWOOD's products, professionals can contribute to a more resilient and sustainable built environment in Australia.

 

Images:  Mike Chorley Photography
Project: Wildlife Retreat – Reception Lounge and Restaurant, Taronga Zoo, Sydney