Bushfire Affected Homes
Safe, beautiful homes designed for every BAL rating, from BAL 12.5 through to Flame Zone. We make bushfire compliance work for you, not against you.
Adam Pressley FRAIAPrincipal & Nominated Architect NSW #6007
BAL explained
Understanding the Bushfire Attack Level
Many of our clients have faced the challenge of designing and building on bushfire-affected properties across Sydney and regional NSW. In these locations, the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating plays a crucial role — it not only guides the approval pathway but also sets the construction standards a home must meet.
Approval options
CDC or DA — which path applies?
For lower-risk sites (up to BAL-29), projects can often proceed through the streamlined Complying Development (CDC) process under the NSW Codes SEPP, provided all requirements are satisfied.
But once a property is rated BAL-40 or BAL-FZ (Flame Zone), a full Development Application (DA) is required, and design solutions must be more robust to ensure safety, compliance, and resilience.
Our experience
Yes — you can build in a bushfire zone
At All Australian Architecture, we've successfully designed homes across every bushfire rating, from BAL-12.5 through to the toughest conditions of the Flame Zone.
Whether complete or still in progress, each project proves that a bushfire-resilient home can be both safe and beautiful — without compromising on lifestyle or design.
Our approach
Balancing safety, cost and design
The NCC and AS 3959 provide the minimum requirements, but our expertise goes further. Working with specialist bushfire consultants, we develop smart alternatives that reduce risk while keeping costs and aesthetics in balance.
The result is a home that not only meets regulations, but also feels secure, comfortable, and uniquely yours.
The six levels
BAL Ratings at a Glance
Level 1 · Very low risk
BAL — LOW
Very low risk. No special construction requirements apply.
✓ CDC or DA pathway available
Level 2 · Low risk
BAL — 12.5
Primarily at risk from ember attack. Some construction requirements apply — mainly ember protection for openings.
✓ CDC pathway available
Level 3 · Moderate risk
BAL — 19
Ember attack plus higher radiant heat. Increased construction standards apply for materials and openings.
✓ CDC pathway available
Level 4 · High risk
BAL — 29
Ember attack and significant radiant heat. Stronger construction measures needed — windows, doors, external walls.
✓ CDC pathway available (up to BAL-29)
Level 5 · Very high risk
BAL — 40
Ember attack, very high radiant heat, and possible flame contact. Robust fire-resistant materials are required throughout.
⚑ Full DA required
Level 6 · Flame Zone — extreme risk
BAL — FZ
Direct flame contact and the highest radiant heat levels. The most stringent construction requirements apply. We have designed homes here.
⚑ Full DA required
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As an architect, I specialise in bushfire-resilient design that balances safety, comfort, and style. Let's collaborate to create a home that reflects your vision while meeting bushfire standards and protecting what matters most.
Adam Pressley
Fellow AIA · NSW Registered Architect #6007
Principal, All Australian Architecture
Get started — free phone advice
Tell Adam about your site and BAL rating. He'll explain your options clearly, with no obligation and no cost. 35+ years of residential design experience, including sites in every BAL category.
Selected work
Bushfire-Safe Homes We've Designed
16 Roper Place, East Killara — Hillside House
26A Elgin Street, Gordon — Forest Hollow House
31 Ivey Street, Lindfield — Sunset Ridge House
21a Baldwin Street, Gordon — Ember Creek House
26 Gilwinga Drive, Bayview — Bayview House
334 Plomer Road, North Shore — Dune Crest House