Steel framing compliance in NSW is not governed by one document. The National Construction Code (NCC), NSW requirements, Australian Standards, engineering documentation and project specifications all work together.
The standards that apply depend on the type of steel framing, building classification, site conditions and compliance pathway.
This guide covers the key Australian Standards for steel framing that may apply to NSW projects in 2026. It is general information only and does not replace project-specific engineering or certification advice.
Which NCC Edition Applies in NSW in 2026?
As of September 2026, NSW applies NCC 2022 Amendment 2.
NSW has announced that NCC 2025 will commence in NSW on 1 May 2027. Projects approaching this transition should confirm the applicable NCC edition and any transitional provisions with the relevant certifier and project consultants.
The publication of a new NCC edition does not automatically mean it applies to every current project.
Key Australian Standards for Steel Framing
AS/NZS 4600 – Cold-Formed Steel Structures
AS/NZS 4600:2018, Cold-formed steel structures, is a key design standard for cold-formed steel members used in many light-gauge framing systems.
It covers areas such as member strength, stability, connections and serviceability.
It is primarily a design standard, not an installation manual. Engineering drawings, bracing, tie-downs, connections and manufacturer installation requirements are still essential.
NASH Standards – Residential and Low-Rise Framing
NASH publishes standards specifically for residential and low-rise steel framing.
Commonly referenced documents include:
- NASH Standard, Residential and Low-Rise Steel Framing, Part 1: Design Criteria
- NASH Standard, Residential and Low-Rise Steel Framing, Part 2: Design Solutions
The applicable edition and scope must be checked against the relevant NCC compliance pathway. A newer NASH publication does not automatically replace an edition referenced by the NCC.
AS 4100 – Structural Steel
AS 4100:2020, Steel structures, applies to structural steelwork within its scope.
It may be relevant to beams, columns, posts, portal frames and other heavier structural steel components.
A building can contain both cold-formed steel framing designed under AS/NZS 4600 and structural steelwork designed under AS 4100.
AS/NZS 5131 – Fabrication and Erection
AS/NZS 5131:2016 covers requirements for the fabrication and erection of structural steelwork, including quality, documentation, traceability and construction categories.
It does not automatically apply to every light-gauge residential frame or roof truss. The engineering documentation and project specification should establish whether it applies.
For welded structural steelwork, the AS/NZS 1554 series may also be relevant.
Wind and Structural Loads
The AS/NZS 1170 series covers structural actions, including permanent, imposed, wind, snow and earthquake actions.
AS/NZS 1170.2:2021 addresses wind actions, while AS 4055:2021 provides housing wind classifications for eligible buildings within its scope.
Wind conditions affect more than frame member sizes. They can influence:
- Bracing
- Connections
- Tie-downs
- Roof framing
- Wall framing
- Foundations
Correct site and wind information should therefore be confirmed before manufacturing the frame.
Steel Materials and Durability
AS 1397:2021 covers continuously hot-dip metallic-coated steel sheet and strip used in many cold-formed steel products.
However, the appropriate steel coating also depends on the exposure environment.
Coastal conditions, moisture, condensation, incompatible materials, coating damage and site modifications can all affect durability. The relevant AS/NZS 2312 series may provide corrosion-protection guidance for structural steelwork where applicable.
Bushfire and Energy Requirements
A steel frame does not automatically make a building compliant with all bushfire, fire-resistance or energy-efficiency requirements.
For bushfire-prone sites, applicable NCC and NSW requirements, the assessed Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) and standards such as AS 3959:2018 may need to be considered.
NASH also provides specific guidance for steel-framed construction in bushfire areas.
Energy efficiency also needs to be considered because steel can create thermal bridging. Insulation continuity and relevant thermal details should be coordinated between the designer, energy assessor and framing supplier.
What Should Be Included in the Framing Documentation?
A compliant framing package may include:
- Architectural and structural drawings
- Applicable NCC requirements
- Wind classification or engineering wind criteria
- Structural calculations
- Frame, floor and roof layouts
- Bracing and tie-down details
- Connection details
- Member schedules
- Steel and coating specifications
- Controlled shop drawings
- Engineering certification where required
- Installation and inspection information
Before manufacture, confirm the site address, wind criteria, roof and ceiling loads, cladding, openings and any additional loads such as solar panels.
Changes to members, bracing or connections should be reviewed before fabrication or installation.
Use the Correct Standard and Edition
The main Australian Standards for steel framing may include AS/NZS 4600, AS 4100, NASH standards, AS/NZS 1170, AS 4055, AS/NZS 5131, AS/NZS 1554 and AS 1397, depending on the project.
The important point is not simply listing the standards. The correct standard, edition and compliance pathway must be applied to the specific building and site.
Proper coordination between the designer, engineer, manufacturer, builder and certifier can help reduce redesign, approval delays and costly site changes.
About Prime Steel Frames & Trusses
Prime Steel Frames & Trusses supplies steel framing solutions for residential and commercial projects from St Marys, NSW.
The range includes steel wall frames, roof trusses, floor joists, structural steel supply and installation support.
Contact Prime Steel to discuss your drawings, site requirements and framing documentation before requesting a quote.