Energy efficiency standards must not be compromised in efforts to alleviate the pressure on Victoria’s struggling building industry, advocates caution. The state government is in consultation with the sector to address the urgent need for reform after the financial collapse of Porter Davis, one of the largest home builders in the country. The Housing Industry Association recommends delaying significant changes to the National Construction Code, which stipulates the energy-efficiency standards and accessibility requirements for new builds. This will provide builders and customers more time to adjust to the updates, according to Keith Ryan of the housing association. However, the Energy Efficiency Council counters that building homes cost-effectively to seven-star standards is attainable with proper design and orientation. As Australia’s population grows once more, the Urban Development Institute of Australia and the Housing Industry Association seek streamlining of the planning system and overhaul of the Domestic Building Contracts Act.