Changing of the guard at ABCB

Gary Rake was appointed as ABCB CEO in March 2022 and oversaw the publication of the 2022 version of the National Construction Code (NCC), as well as the development of NCC 2025.

His new role will be Deputy Commissioner Regulatory Operations with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. This role is responsible for the compliance elements of the new Aged Care Act that comes into effect from July 1, 2025.

“I would like to openly and loudly say how grateful I am for the effort, commitment, and support of the people I’ve worked with over the past three-plus years at the Australian Building Codes Board,” Rake wrote on LinkedIn.

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources has appointed Judith Blake as interim CEO of the ABCB from May 12, 2025, while an open recruitment process is undertaken.

“Some you will have met Judith during her time as the Commonwealth representative on the Board a few years ago,” Rake wrote. “Judith has strong knowledge of the ABCB, NCC, building policy and great connections across all levels of government. I hope you will all welcome Judith into the CEO role when you have a chance.”

Members of the Building Codes Committee (BCC) have responded with thanks and praise for Rake.

“It’s been great working with you over these past few years,” says Brett Fairweather, M.AIRAH, who represents AIRAH on the BCC.

“I’ve appreciated how you’ve taken the time to understand the concerns raised by so many of us on the BCC about important issues in each of our own areas of work and helped us navigate our way to better outcomes through your clear and respectful leadership style. I’m sure this will now also lead to great things for compliance in the aged care sector.”

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