As part of Stage One of the Mass Timber Code Change project, this research reviewed international building codes, standards, fire testing programs and regulatory approaches from Australia, the United States, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Canada and England to identify world-leading practices for the use of exposed mass timber in taller buildings. The project also engaged regulators, fire authorities, certifiers and industry stakeholders to assess opportunities and challenges for reforming Australia’s National Construction Code (NCC) Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions for mass timber construction.
The research provides an evidence-based foundation for the development of an Australian Industry Standard that could support future NCC reform, reducing reliance on costly and complex performance solutions for mass timber projects. For FWPA members and the broader industry, the project helps create a pathway for greater use of mass timber in mid-rise and tall buildings, while maintaining robust fire safety outcomes. By drawing on proven international approaches and stakeholder input, the work aims to improve regulatory certainty, support innovation in timber construction, expand market opportunities for Australian timber products, and strengthen the industry’s ability to compete in the growing global mass timber market.
