2026: Timeline of proposed changes to the Building Research Levy

In 2026, the building and construction sector is facing a significant period of reform. Many parts of the system are being reviewed — from consenting to liability, to how building research is funded.

Alongside these broad reforms sits the proposal to repeal the Building Research Levy Act (1969) and merge the Building Research Levy with the Building Levy. Administration of the research funding would move from BRANZ to central government (Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment). Under this proposal, building research would be funded on a contestable basis from a ringfenced portion of the Building Levy.

Below is a timeline of key documents and announcements relating to the proposed changes.

2026, February: Opinion – Claire Falck, CEO of BRANZ

In an editorial published in Build Magazine, BRANZ Chief Executive Claire Falck outlines why these proposed changes matter – for the building and construction sector and for all New Zealanders.

“Change is inevitable. What matters is how we respond... The opportunity now is to ensure that reform strengthens, rather than fragments, the long-term building science capability that underpins affordability, resilience, sustainability and quality.”

2025, December: Publication of Cabinet Paper, Cabinet Minute, and Regulatory Impact Statement

On 23 December 2025, MBIE released copies of the Cabinet Paper, Cabinet Minute, and supporting Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) relating to the proposed repeal of the Building Research Levy Act.

2025, November: Cabinet proposes to repeal the Building Research Levy Act

On 20 November 2025, the Minister for Building and Construction announced Cabinet’s proposal to repeal the Building Research Levy Act (1969) and merge the Building Research Levy with the Building Levy.

Under the proposal, administration of building research funding would move from BRANZ to central government (MBIE). Funding for building research would be allocated on a contestable basis from a ringfenced portion of the Building Levy.

2025, August – October: MBIE review of the Building Research Levy Act

In August 2025, the Minister for Building and Construction asked MBIE to carry out a short review of the Building Research Levy Act (1969). The purpose was to align the funding of building research with modern levy collection and expenditure practices and to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of the sector.

During the review, BRANZ provided two submissions to the Minister for Building and Construction, to reflect feedback from across the sector (including members of the Building Research Advisory Council.)

2025, July: Change of Minister responsible for the Building Research Levy Act

In July 2025, responsibility for the Building Research Levy Act (1969) was transferred from the Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, to the Minister for Building and Construction.

Find out more about the Building Research Levy