Future-Proof Your Frames with STRUCTApanel®

With the introduction of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022, Australia has entered a new era of liveable housing design. Builders and frame and truss manufacturers are rethinking how they approach internal wall construction, particularly in bathrooms and sanitary areas, to meet updated accessibility and performance standards.

At the centre of these changes is Part 6 of the Liveable Housing Design Standard (LHDS) , which requires reinforced wall backing in bathrooms and sanitary compartments. This reinforcement allows for the secure installation of grabrails, shower seats and other mobility aids, ensuring that homes remain safe and accessible for all occupants. The intent is to make housing adaptable for ageing residents, people with disabilities, families with young children and anyone recovering from injury.

Meeting these standards is about more than compliance. It is about building homes that are safer, stronger and designed to last. STRUCTApanel® 12mm offers a purpose-built solution that delivers high performance, reliability and sustainability for modern Australian construction.

Understanding the Standard

LHDS Part 6 applies to all new Class 1a and Class 2 buildings and outlines the following requirements:

• Reinforcement is required in bathrooms, toilets and showers.
• A minimum board thickness of 12 mm must be used.
• Fixing capacity must reach at least 1100 N to ensure grabrails and seats can be safely installed during construction or later.

These requirements are designed to future-proof homes, providing peace of mind for occupants while avoiding costly modifications in the future.

Why STRUCTApanel® 12mm is the Smarter Choice?

STRUCTApanel® 12mm has been tested to achieve a fixing capacity of 1600 N, exceeding the NCC’s minimum requirement and providing long-term confidence that fixtures such as grabrails and fold-down seats remain secure over time.

In addition to superior fixing strength, STRUCTApanel® 12mm is bracing certified, meaning it can serve a structural role within wall assemblies. This adds flexibility for builders and simplifies construction by reducing the number of products required on site.

Built for Australian conditions, the board features H2 termite treatment for protection in high-risk zones and long-lasting durability. Manufactured in Australia from plantation-grown, sustainably certified timber, STRUCTApanel® supports responsible sourcing and local production. Its consistent quality and dependable performance make it an ideal choice for builders and manufacturers committed to compliance and excellence.

Supporting the Frame and Truss Industry

For frame and truss manufacturers, compliance begins with careful detailing. STRUCTApanel® 12mm integrates seamlessly into wall framing, providing a ready-to-use solution that simplifies the process while meeting NCC 2022 requirements. By including STRUCTApanel® 12mm as part of your standard offering, you can help builders deliver safer, accessible homes and strengthen your position as a trusted supplier in a rapidly evolving market.

Looking Ahead

While not all states and territories have yet adopted the Liveable Housing Design Standard, the national direction is clear. Accessibility and adaptability are quickly becoming expectations in every new build. Choosing STRUCTApanel® 12mm ensures readiness for the next phase of the NCC while supporting safer, stronger and more sustainable homes across Australia.

STRUCTApanel®. Built for performance. Designed for the future.