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The lead-free regulation: Everything you need to know

A tradie and a Bunnings Team Member in high-visibility clothing have a conversation in the plumbing section instore.
Lead-free requirements are now in place for plumbing and tapware products used in contact with drinking water.

Current Plumbing Code of Australia requirements ensure brass plumbing products intended for contact with drinking water remain within prescribed lead limits. Lead-free implementation timelines differ by state. Victoria adopted the requirement from 1 May 2026, while most other states and territories transition by 1 May 2028. Check local regulations to confirm requirements.

Here's what you need to know about the lead-free regulation.

  • In Australia, a move to lead-free plumbing products in contact with drinking water is mandated by the National Construction Code (NCC) Volume 3 – also known as the Plumbing Code of Australia.
  • WaterMark-certified copper alloy products with less than 0.25 per cent lead can be installed.
  • This switch aims to protect public health by eliminating the risk of lead exposure from drinking water.
  • In locations where the requirements are in effect, new installations and applicable repairs must use certified lead-free products. You don’t need to replace existing plumbing.

 

A tradie and a worker in high-visibility clothing discuss a plumbing fixture in Bunnings.

What lead limits mean for you

If you’re a design, building or plumbing practitioner who specifies, procures or installs any plumbing products, it’s essential to understand and comply with Clause A5G4 in Volume Three of the National Construction Code (also known as the Plumbing Code of Australia).

 

Key points to remember about the lead-free regulation

Clause A5G4 clearly outlines the compliance requirements for lead-free plumbing products.

  • Products made from brass can’t exceed a weighted average lead content of 0.25 per cent.
  • The Australian Building Codes Board’s WaterMark Certification Scheme certifies the suitability of plumbing and drainage products.
  • Suitable products will feature one of the below updated WaterMark trademarks (with ‘Lead Free’ or abbreviation ‘LF’).

 

Know the watermark system

The WaterMark website has everything you need to know about the WaterMark system – whether it’s products that need to be certified, installation matters or searching through the product database. Ensure you are familiar with and can recognise the WaterMark label well, too.

Use industry information

Master Plumbers’ Chief Technical Advisor Gary Bath adds it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for new information shared by leading industry bodies.

“The Australian Building Codes Board and local Master Plumbers Associations will have information and resources to assist plumbers in understanding and complying with the new requirements,” he says.

 

What are the lead-free symbols?

Look out for one of these four on products and packaging.

The four new lead-free black logo symbols.

Explore the range

Looking for compliant lead-free plumbing products?

 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.