Standards Australia invites comment on handbook for prefabricated and modular construction

Australia’s housing system continues to face significant challenges, including skill shortages and low affordability. One promising solution is the use of modern construction methods such as prefabricated and modular housing. While traditional homes can take up to 12 months to complete, prefabricated homes can be built in as little as four months – offering a faster, more cost-effective way to deliver new housing.

Despite these advantages, prefabricated housing currently accounts for less than 5% of new residential construction in Australia. Uptake has been limited, largely due to issues with scalability and consistency across the sector.

To help address these barriers, Standards Australia has released SA HB 268, a handbook for prefabricated and modular construction, for public comment until 13 January 2026. Drafted by the technical committee BD-111 on Prefabricated Building, the handbook aims to support consistent practice across the industry and provide guidance where current policy and international standards may fall short.

Prefabricated and modular construction offers a range of benefits:

• Safety:  Building in controlled environments can reduce exposure to on-site risks and improves worker safety.
• Environmental: Efficient use of materials and reduced site disturbance help lower environmental impact.
• Economic: Faster build times and lower costs can improve housing access, particularly in remote or underserved areas.
• Social: These methods offer flexibility to relocate or repurpose buildings as community needs evolve.

To scale-up and realise these benefits, industry and regulators need a common language and a consistent set of requirements to support adoption. SA HB 268 aims to reduce market confusion by clarifying requirements and improving consistency across suppliers. This approach can promote fairer competition and unlock new opportunities throughout the supply chain. This first edition also anticipates a future Australian Standard for prefabricated modular building design and construction.

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Have your say

Feedback on SA HB 268 – Prefabricated Building: Glossary of Terms is encouraged from builders, designers, manufacturers, regulators, and anyone interested in housing supply and construction innovation.

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