Lead-Free Plumbing Implementation Delayed

Delayed until 1 May 2028

The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) has announced that plumbing products containing lead can continue to be installed in homes, schools and childcare centres until 1 May 2028, extending the original transition deadline. The decision delays the implementation of standards intended to limit lead exposure through drinking water systems.

Under the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) 2022, the term “lead-free” is defined as plumbing products or materials that come into contact with drinking water having a weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25 per cent. While the use of lead in small amounts in manufacturing some plumbing products has always been permitted, the updated requirements were introduced as part of a broader push to improve public health and reduce long-term exposure risks.

The ABCB, responsible for establishing national construction standards, stated the postponement was required because of a lack of sufficient lead-free certified products.

“In light of the strong housing agenda and risks of insufficient Lead Free WaterMark certified products being available in the market, the Board agreed to extend the period during which existing WaterMark certified products can be installed to 1 May 2028 …”

However, the decision has reportedly sparked backlash across the construction industry. Many businesses that have already invested in transitioning to lead-free products argue that the delay undermines their efforts and places them at a competitive disadvantage. These companies now face being undercut by suppliers continuing to offer cheaper, lead-containing alternatives.

There are also broader concerns about Australia falling behind international standards. With other developed nations having already adopted the ban decades earlier, Australia risks being a dumping ground for lead products no longer suitable for sale overseas. 

While the board confirmed on its website that the new deadline was final, there has been speculation that the Victorian government may still adhere to the initial deadline.