This interactive map presents climate-related data to support the National Construction Code (NCC). The map is useful for builders, designers, certifiers, regulators and other industry professionals. It will help practitioners see how climate factors influence the building requirements outlined in the NCC.
The map includes dynamic layers and static reference maps. These show the NCC climate zones, relative humidity patterns and alpine areas.
The map is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC-BY). To view a copy of this license, visit the Creative Commons website.
The following information provides an overview of the map's data.
NCC climate zones
Australia's diverse climate results in varying heating and cooling needs across regions. To account for these differences, the NCC energy efficiency Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) Provisions vary from location to location. For simplicity, locations with similar climates have been combined into 8 climate zones.
The following provides a brief description of each NCC climate zone:
- Climate zone 1 - high humidity summer, warm winter
- Climate zone 2 - warm humid summer, mild winter
- Climate zone 3 - hot dry summer, warm winter
- Climate zone 4 - hot dry summer, cool winter
- Climate zone 5 - warm temperate
- Climate zone 6 - mild temperate
- Climate zone 7 - cool temperate
- Climate zone 8 - alpine
The NCC's 8 climate zones shown on the map were created using Bureau of Meteorology climatic data. Two supplementary zones have been added to accommodate an additional temperature zone and alpine area.
You can download the climate zone map from data.gov.au.
Relative humidity
These layers show the average relative humidity for January and July, based on data collected from 1976 to 2005. You can learn more how relative humidity is calculated on the Bureau of Meteorology website.
Alpine areas
This layer identifies alpine regions based on elevation thresholds used in building and planning standards.
- 1200 m in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.
- 900 m in Tasmania.
This layer uses the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) elevation dataset, which incorporates GEBCO's global elevation models. You can learn more on the Australian Antarctic Data Centre's website.
ABCB Climate Map FAQs
Why has the ABCB Climate Map been updated?
The previous climate map was based on an outdated base map and Local Government Area (LGA) boundaries. As a result, users had difficulty locating some addresses, especially in newly developed areas, because the base map did not reflect recent changes.
To improve usability and accuracy, the map has been updated to reflect the current LGA boundaries. We’ve also incorporated new datasets, including relative humidity and alpine regions, to help users more easily access the information needed for compliance.
Can I still access the old climate map?
The previous version of the climate map has been archived. We recommend using the new map for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Have there been any changes to the NCC climate data that could affect compliance for previously built buildings?
No, the NCC climate zones data remains unchanged. The updated map only affects the LGA boundaries shown on the map and includes additional data layers to support NCC compliance
Will the updated map affect my current building approval or compliance status?
Existing buildings remain compliant under the previous climate zone classifications.
What specific data has been added to the updated climate map?
The ABCB Climate Map now includes data related to relative humidity, updated LGA boundaries and alpine areas. However, you can customise your map to include any relevant data available from the Digital Atlas Australia website.
How do I find my property's climate zone using the new map?
The map allows users to zoom, pan, and search by address or coordinates. You can find your place by address, suburb or postcode.
Why does my address show a different climate zone than before?
The results from the previous ABCB Climate Map and the updated version should be the same. If you notice a difference, please try your search again. If the issue persists, contact us for assistance.
How often is the climate map updated?
We will update the map as needed to ensure users have access to the most current and accurate data.
Do changes to LGA boundaries affect NCC climate zones?
No. Climate zones are not linked to LGA boundaries and remain unchanged. The LGA boundaries are provided only as a reference to help you locate your project.
How can I be sure I’ve got the right climate zone if LGA boundaries in my area have changed?
Simply search using your address in the map. This will give you the correct climate zone every time. Do not use old references that tied climate zones to LGA boundaries, as those are no longer reliable.
Why does the new map look different from the old one?
The visual differences are due to updated LGA boundaries and changes to the map interface, so some areas may appear different. However, the data underlying climate zones remains the same.
Is the map updated following the recent amendment to NCC 2022?
No. The NCC climate zones themselves have not changed and remain consistent with those established in the previous map.
The recent update to the map involves the addition of the latest Local Government Area (LGA) boundaries layer. This enhancement is designed to help users locate their project more easily—particularly when address or postcode searches are unsuccessful.
It’s important to note that climate zones are not defined by LGA boundaries. Because LGA boundaries can change over time, relying on them may lead to confusion. While the updated LGA layer can assist in identifying the applicable climate zone, we recommend using the address, or geographic coordinates available in the new mapping tool for the most accurate results.