This is the current version of the EFSG, applicable for projects whose business case is approved from 1 July 2025.
Current EFSG Version
Image: Homebush West Public School
Welcome to the EFSG 2025
EFSG 2025 is the first release of our Standards Reform program of works. It represents a new appraoch to the standards. This key resource supports all new build school infrastructure projects by clearly defining design expectations and spatial requirements.
The EFSG 2025 represents the beginning of a staged release program, helping users gradually engage with the evolving standards.
We've introduced updates to the structure of the EFSG making it easier to navigate and apply.
While we know there is more work to do, this release introduces improved content and a simpler way to access SI's infrastructure standards.
The Educational Facility Standards and Guidelines (EFSG) contains design and construction standards, that are required for the design and delivery of new school facilities and upgrades.
EFSG 2025 sets the benchmark for all new built environment works for school facilities in NSW and is separated into the four parts A,B, C and D based on the types of information you seek. All parts are to be read in conjunction with one another. Read sequentially through each part, or choose which type of information relevant to your question from the four parts below.
The EFSG only details design and construction standards where they exceed or are in addition to the minimum standards set out in the National Construction Code (NCC). This document does not replace compliance requirements detailed in the National Construction Code, including the Building Code of Australia (BCA), Australian Standards and NATSPEC.
SI have refined existing content and developed some new content for EFSG 2025, working closely with stakeholders for initial input. We are pleased to include some of that content in this EFSG release including a range of standardised school designs in the form of a Pattern Book and Data Sheets for new Public and High Schools and SSPs.
For example, whilst SSPs are single storey, increasingly new PS and HS are three storeys in height on greenfield sites and four storeys or more in urban environments (referred to as urban schools). The standardised designs for three to four storey schools and single storey SSPs has undergone project specific consultation to develop the first templates.
The draft designs re now at a point where they require review and testing. Find out more about the consultation process and the future evolution of the EFSG.
