Performance Solutions provide a compliant pathway where prescriptive requirements cannot be met—reducing redesign, supporting approval and enabling practical project outcomes.

A Performance Solution demonstrates compliance with the NCC/BCA Performance Requirements through appropriate assessment methods and supporting evidence. This can provide a structured and evidence-based pathway to reduce compliance risk during certification and approval.

Project teams may choose a pathway to satisfy the NCC/BCA Performance Requirements. This pathway does not strictly comply with the prescriptive Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) provisions. This approach is correctly referred to as a Performance Solution. However, it is sometimes incorrectly described as a dispensation or waiver.

Performance Solutions can unlock more efficient, buildable and cost-effective outcomes. We work with project teams to identify opportunities where Performance Solutions can resolve constraints and support compliant design.

There are many benefits to using Performance Solutions on projects, including:

  • Enables Design Outcomes: Maintains design intent where prescriptive provisions would otherwise restrict the outcome.
  • Avoids Redesign: Resolves a non-compliance without needing a redesign or functionality loss.
  • Supports Certification: Provides a clear and defensible pathway aligned with NCC/BCA Performance Requirements.
  • Responds to Constraints: Addresses spatial, structural or existing building limitations.
  • Risk Reduction: There will be less chance of an unfavorable outcome. This can be achieved if Access Central checks a design to identify potential Performance Solutions.

A Performance Solution achieves compliance when appropriate Assessment Methods show that the proposed Building Solution meets the relevant Performance Requirements. A Performance Solution complies with the NCC/BCA when it achieves an outcome at least equivalent to the DtS provisions.

Performance Solutions are a key tool in delivering compliant, and practical outcomes—particularly where prescriptive pathways are not achievable.

This process requires a structured, evidence-based assessment of the design using appropriate Assessment Methods. Access Central provides this capability through experienced consultants. Access Consultants have formal qualifications in building surveying and performance-based codes. Additionally, they possess specialist postgraduate training in access consulting, performance-based building, and fire engineering.