Mandatory changes are coming — no “ifs” or “buts.”
From 1st May, 2026, lead-free plumbing products will be compulsory for use in all systems carrying drinking water in Australia.
If you’re in plumbing or construction, you need to be ready — and here’s what that means for you.
What Does “Lead-Free” Mean for Plumbing Systems?
By 2026, only plumbing products with a weighted average lead content of 0.25% or less will be approved for installation in potable (drinking) water systems. This includes everything from taps and mixers to valves, fittings, and pipework.
If it’s not certified as Lead Free, it won’t be legal for drinking water installs after May 1, 2026.
Why the Big Change?
The move to Lead Free Plumbing Systems is all about protecting public health. Lead is toxic — even low levels have been shown to cause serious health issues, especially for kids and pregnant women. Over time, lead can leach from fittings and fixtures into drinking water. Reducing lead in plumbing products is a global shift, and Australia’s jumping onboard.
So manufacturers have until the 1st of May 2026 to register their Lead Free products. A Lead Free WaterMark certification is already available but it won’t be mandatory until that cut off date. After that, any product that exceeds 0.25% lead content will be non compliant and cannot be installed for potable use.
What This Means for Plumbers
If you’re a plumber still using your go-to system — and it’s not Lead Free — it’ll be non-compliant after the cut-off date. That means:
- Failed inspections
- Warranty issues
- Potential fines
- And yes, costly rework
- Stay ahead of the curve by getting familiar with Lead Free systems now.
You’ll want to be talking to your supplier about what assurances they can give you going forward. If in doubt, Austec will have you covered for all your rough-in gear.
You should ask your supplier if their products are Lead Free. Nathan did, and he’s excited because Austec’s got him covered.
What About Austec’s Patented Dual PEX System?
Our current Austec Crimp system contains trace lead — but don’t stress. We’re prepared for the upcoming changes.
It will still be a crimp system, dual-certified for gas and water, no o-rings and NO LEAD.
It’s unlike anything else in the Aussie market — or the world.
Stay tuned to Water and Gasbagging for the big reveal. We’re almost ready to launch, and it’s going to blow the trace lead right off your ute tray.
Want to Be Among the First?
We’ll be supplying Lead Free systems at Austec’s signature competitive pricing — and yes, we’ll deliver it straight to site. Just give us a bell for a price list or to register your interest. Call (02) 9604 2774 or message us here.
