NECA backs call to remove paywall on Australian Standards to boost safety and productivity.

The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) has welcomed the united call from industry leaders and Standards Australia for a national access model for Australian Standards. This collaboration marks a significant step toward removing longstanding barriers to compliance, safety and productivity in the construction sector.

At a roundtable held at Parliament House in Canberra, NECA joined Standards Australia to address the need for free and consistent access to mandated standards. The group acknowledged that restricted access to these critical documents is undermining workforce capability, compliance, housing delivery and Australia’s transition to net zero.

NECA CEO Oliver Judd said:

“Australian Standards are essential to safety, productivity and compliance. Yet many in our industry still face barriers to access. Given the significant volunteer contribution we make to developing these standards, it is time for a fairer, more effective model that supports the people building our homes, infrastructure and net zero future. It makes sense that if a standard is required to perform your job, that it should be freely accessible.”

NECA’s position is well established. Standards that are referenced in legislation, regulation or licensing frameworks must be freely and easily accessible to the people who are required to comply with them. In the electrical industry, daily work involves critical safety obligations that depend on current, accurate and consistent technical information.

NECA continues to advocate for:

•    A national model that removes the costs and restrictions associated with accessing mandated Australian Standards;

•    Integration of standards into accessible, digital formats that provide real-time guidance to contractors and apprentices.

Improving access to standards is not simply a matter of convenience. It is a fundamental reform that will support safer work practices, reduce costly rework and lift productivity. 

This agreement reflects a growing recognition that these reforms are essential. NECA will continue working closely with Standards Australia, government and industry partners to deliver a practical, national solution that benefits contractors and the communities they serve.