Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, a timeless symbol of symmetry and human potential, was inspired by the Roman architect Vitruvius. While best known for his ten-volume work on architecture, Vitruvius also made an early – yet often overlooked – contribution to public health. He warned against the use of lead pipes, noting that lead miners frequently developed pale complexions. This observation may be one of the earliest recorded accounts of lead toxicity.
Fast forward two millennia, and whilst Australia does not have lead pipes for our water we are acting on what ancient Rome ignored and making our drinking water even safer.
With collaboration between industry and government, a practical regulatory framework is guiding Australia's transition to a lead-free plumbing product environment.
On 1 May, Ai Group hosted a national forum marking the two-year milestone in this three-year transition. The event offered an important opportunity to reflect on progress and identify ongoing challenges.
A live Slido poll of forum participants revealed:
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) is expected to release updated guidance soon – particularly regarding non-compliant products installed before the 1 May 2026 deadline but handed over afterward. This remains a key area of uncertainty for the industry.
Although the transition period spans three years, delays in the lead-free (LF) accreditation framework and early consumer demand have effectively shortened the timeline. An Ai Group questionnaire in late 2024 suggests industry-wide stock write-offs could reach $10 million to $36 million – a major burden during economic headwinds and rising cost-of-living pressures.
Ai Group urges policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to collaborate closely to minimise financial impacts on businesses and avoid unnecessary waste. As economists often note: industry costs eventually flow through to consumers.
With the 1 May 2026 deadline approaching, Ai Group calls on all stakeholders to work with the ABCB to ensure clear, consistent market awareness – that only lead-free products will be permitted beyond that date.
Ai Group thanks our panellists Penny Cornah, Steve Cummings, Simon Fraser and Tom Roberts.
Vitruvius was ignored, and ancient Rome paid the price. Today, Australians can be thankful that, supported by a responsible industry, our policymakers are acting – and ensuring that our already safe drinking water is even safer for future generations.
James is the Lead – Standards and Product Regulation at the Australian Industry Group. He manages members' engagement with Standards Australia (circa 250 representatives on 350 committees), regulatory advocacy in the electrical and plumbing space and member forums on a range of topics.
James holds a degree in Electrical Engineering and a master's in Professional Accounting.
