The code provides design and siting standards for detached houses and secondary dwellings, covering areas such as building height, setbacks, privacy, parking, site coverage and private open space.
The state government says the framework is intended to improve consistency while allowing councils time and support to consider adoption. Updated Modern Homes Standards also introduce revised energy-efficiency pathways for some small and raised-floor homes, along with flexibility in accessibility design.
The transition does not mean every council automatically adopted the code on 1 September. Homeowners and builders should check the rules and commencement arrangements applying in their own council area.