By combining Dahlsens’ extensive supply network with Highwood Timber’s next-gen engineered battens, Australia’s residential builds are stepping up to healthier, code-ready homes built to last.
Robert D’Ambrosio, D’Ambrosio Construction Group, with Liz Bell, Dahlsens Account Manager
The Australian building industry is preparing for a major shift. NCC 2025 is set to introduce new requirements to address the growing risks of condensation in our homes.
These upcoming changes follow years of research, industry consultation, and lessons learned from moisture related building failures both in Australia and overseas. These changes will be published on the 1st of February 2026. States and Territories can consider adoption of the new code from the 1st of May, 2026 (Treasury, 2025).
As homes become more airtight and energy-efficient, they perform better on energy bills and comfort, but internal moisture has become harder to disperse. Without ventilation pathways, condensation can build up inside walls and roofs, leading to mould, timber decay, and costly remediation. NCC 2025 is designed to ensure that new homes are not only efficient, but healthier and longer lasting.
What NCC 2025 Will Require
The proposed changes focus on three clear areas:
Drained and ventilated cavities will be mandatory in colder climate zones (6–8), ensuring airflow and drainage behind cladding systems.
Expanded roof space ventilation requirements will apply in more regions, reflecting the broader risk of condensation.
Defined vapour permeance standards for wraps and membranes will ensure wall systems can dry effectively, rather than trapping moisture.
Together, these provisions place condensation management on the same footing as structural strength and energy efficiency—a core compliance requirement for all new builds.
To find out more about the proposed NCC 2025 code change, follow this link.
For builders, the question is how to meet these new rules in a way that is consistent, practical, and scalable across projects. Traditional approaches—such as improvised timber packers, counter battens, or non-structural ventilation methods add time to projects.
Highwood’s HighFlow™ ventilated H3 LVL battens provide a simple, code-ready solution. Available in 70 x 35mm and 50 x 35mm sizes, they combine three critical functions in one product:
Structural performance – engineered LVL provides strength, consistency, and long-term dimensional stability. LVL battens can span across stud spacing, without additional framing supports required.
Ventilation and drainage – integrated grooves and bevelled top edge create reliable airflow and water-shedding pathways.
Code compliance – 2000mm2/ lineal metre of ventilation performance exceeds requirements of NCC 2025 condensation provisions.
By using a single engineered product, builders can save time on site, reduce complexity, and gain confidence that their wall and roof systems are future-proofed.
To find out more about the Highwood range, follow this link.
Robert D’Ambrosio, D’Ambrosio Construction Group, with Liz Bell, Dahlsens Account Manager
Dahlsens Helping Builders Stay Ahead
To ensure builders can access these innovations, Dahlsens Building Centres has partnered with Highwood. Dahlsens has built its reputation on service and a willingness to help their builders stay ahead.
By introducing Highwood’s ventilated batten range into their offer, Dahlsens is once again demonstrating leadership in supplying smart, code-ready solutions for their customers. It reflects Dahlsens’ role as more than a supplier—they are a partner in helping builders adapt to change and deliver better outcomes for homeowners.
HighFlow™ battens are complementary and compatible with a broad range of cladding materials and are structurally rated to support cladding systems up to 20kg/m2.
To find out more about Highwood products available through Dahlsens, click here.
Aaron Benson, Azpect Constructions, with Shaun Beattie, Branch Manager of Dahlsens Gosford
Building Healthier, Future-Proof Homes
The shift signalled by NCC 2025 is clear: moisture management is no longer a secondary detail, but a central element of building design. With airtight, energy-efficient homes now the norm, cavity solutions that actively manage condensation are essential.
Through the partnership between Dahlsens and Highwood, builders can move forward with confidence. With 70 x 35mm and 50 x 35mm battens available throughout the network, they have access to a simple, structural, and compliant system ready for today’s demands and tomorrow’s standards.
The result is a win for everyone. Homeowners gain houses that are more comfortable, efficient, and durable. Builders gain straightforward compliance and less mould related risk on site.
Dahlsens and Highwood are proud to be leading this transition—helping the building sector prepare for NCC 2025 and delivering healthier homes for generations to come.
