Improvements to accessibility and energy efficiency, mainly. Build costs should only increase by an average of 2%, which will be more than offset by less energy use in heating and cooling in the long run.

Homes will need to include at least one step-free entry, wider internal doors and corridors, as well as a toilet on the ground or entry level. Queenslander-style homes will be exempt from having a step-free entry.

New buildings will also need to meet a minimum energy star rating of seven out of 10, instead of six.

According to disability advocates:

"Less than 5 per cent of housing is built to be accessible and inclusive," she said.

"Industry only changes when it has to."

Which is a pretty appalling record, frankly. And yet despite that appalling record, some arsehole from "Master Builders Australia" says:

We're disappointed the government is still forging ahead with the accessibility provisions.