If you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom, plumbing might not be the first thing on your mind—but it should be. Choosing the wrong fixtures or installing them incorrectly can mean leaks, fines, or worse, ripping out all your hard work. That’s why it’s essential to understand the Australian Plumbing Codes before you shop.
What is the Plumbing Code of Australia?
Think of the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) as the national rulebook for plumbing and drainage. It’s part of the National Construction Code (NCC) and ensures that every system—whether water supply, drainage, or hot water—is safe, efficient, and built to last. The current edition was released in 2022 and is updated every three years.
Codes That Matter for Homeowners & DIY Renovators
1. Water Supply Standards
Whether it’s your kitchen mixer or showerhead, water pressure matters.
Must-knows:
- Pipe sizing, installation, and pressure are guided by AS/NZS 3500.1
- Minimum pressure: 50 kPa
- Maximum pressure for homes: 500 kPa
Poor pressure = poor performance, so always check the pressure specs before buying tapware.
2. Drainage & Wastewater Rules
Planning to shift your toilet or add an ensuite? Drainage is key.
Covered under: AS/NZS 3500.2
Standards include:
- Correct fall (or gradient) to ensure smooth drainage
- Inspection openings every 30m or at direction changes
- Minimum gradient: 1:60 for 100mm pipes
Improper drainage can lead to blockages, bad smells, or worse—flooding.
3. Hot Water System Requirements
Installing a new hot water unit? Here’s where safety kicks in.
Standard: AS/NZS 3500.4
Temperature limits:
- Stored water: min. 60°C (to prevent bacteria)
- Delivered water (to taps): max. 50°C (to prevent burns)
Important: In most states, you can’t legally install or modify a hot water system unless you’re a licensed plumber.
4. Water Efficiency (WELS Ratings)
Australia’s Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme makes it easy to spot eco-friendly products.
Minimum ratings for homes:
- Taps: 4-star (6.0 L/min)
- Showers: 3-star (9.0 L/min)
Look for the WELS label—it saves water and lowers your bills.
Certifications You Should Look For
WaterMark Certification
All plumbing fixtures legally sold in Australia must carry a WaterMark—a guarantee that the product meets strict quality and performance standards.
Blue Bathware products are WaterMark-certified and compliant with AS/NZS 3718:2013, so you can shop with confidence.
What DIY Plumbing Can You Actually Do?
Rules vary slightly across states, but here’s a quick guide:
Allowed (most states):
- Replacing tap washers
- Swapping a showerhead
- Unblocking drains with a plunger
Call a plumber for:
- Anything involving mains water or drainage pipes
- Hot water system installs or repairs
- Waterproofing in certain states (e.g., NSW)
- When in doubt, always ask a licensed plumber.
Want to Stay Up to Date?
Plumbing standards change. Stay current by:
- Visiting the Australian Building Codes Board
- Checking with your local council
- Speaking to trusted tradespeople
Compliant. Certified. Clever.
At Blue Bathware, every fixture we offer—from basins to tapware—is built to meet or exceed Australian standards. Whether you're planning a DIY project or working with a builder, you’ll find code-compliant, design-forward options right here.
Ready to renovate smart?
Explore our WaterMark-certified range or speak to our team for help choosing the right fixtures for your space.
