The Superior Panel for Liveable Housing Design

The Liveable Housing Design Standard (LHDS), introduced by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB), is changing the way new homes are designed and built. Its purpose is to make homes easier to access, safer to move around, and more adaptable to the changing needs of occupants throughout their lives. Whether for families, older Australians or people with disabilities, the standard supports more inclusive and future-ready housing across the country.

One of the key requirements of the standard is the installation of a reinforced 12mm backing board behind plasterboard in bathrooms and toilets. This board allows for the future installation of grabrails and other accessibility fixtures without the need for major renovations. STRUCTApanel® 12mm has quickly become the smarter, more efficient choice for builders, offering compliance, strength and sustainability in a cost-effective Australian-made solution.

Meeting and Exceeding Standards

The LHDS requires the backing board to have a fixing capacity of 1100 Newtons (N). STRUCTApanel® 12mm not only meets this requirement but exceeds it, with a tested fixing capacity of 1800 N. This additional strength ensures secure support for grabrails, fold-down seats and other safety fixtures, giving builders and homeowners confidence that their installations will remain reliable and safe long into the future.

Why STRUCTApanel ® 12mm is the Smarter Choice?

STRUCTApanel® 12mm is purpose-designed to deliver structural performance, compliance and sustainability in one versatile product. It provides multiple benefits that go beyond the minimum code requirements:

• Superior fixing capacity: 1800 N strength rating, offering greater durability and peace of mind.
• Bracing certified: Can function as both a structural wall panel and a compliant backing board.
• Termite resistant: H2 treatment ensures lasting protection in Australian conditions.
• Sustainably made: Manufactured in Australia from certified plantation pine, reducing environmental impact and supporting local industry.
• Cost-effective performance: Combines high strength with affordability and ease of installation.

STRUCTApanel® 12mm is quickly becoming the preferred product for frame and truss manufacturers, builders and contractors who want a simple, compliant and high-performing solution that delivers on every level.

Smarter Choice for Builders

Across Australia, STRUCTApanel® 12mm is being adopted as the new standard for Liveable Housing compliance. Its flat, consistent surface makes installation easy, while local production ensures availability and dependable quality. Builders benefit from reduced material costs, less time on site and a product that integrates seamlessly into wall assemblies. By choosing STRUCTApanel®, they can deliver homes that meet today’s accessibility standards while preparing for the needs of tomorrow’s residents.

A Sustainable Solution

STRUCTApanel® 12mm is manufactured in Australia using timber sourced from certified plantation forests. This process supports responsible forestry, local manufacturing and circular economy principles. The low-emission manufacturing process aligns with modern sustainability goals, while built-in termite resistance ensures the product performs in even the most challenging environments.

The Future of Backing Boards

As accessibility and liveable design become standard expectations in new homes, STRUCTApanel® 12mm sets the benchmark for performance. With superior fixing capacity, termite protection, sustainability and cost efficiency, it provides builders with a product that meets compliance while exceeding expectations.

STRUCTApanel ® 12mm. Stronger, smarter, and designed for the future of Australian housing.