
By George Giannakakis · B.Arch.Studies · M.Arch (UniSA) · RLA300580
Last reviewed: · How we research
"Two courses of Besser, core-filled, then the sleepers."
Regional note: Besser nationally. Queensland says "blockwork" for whole houses.
A hollow concrete block, usually 390 x 190 x 190mm. Besser was a brand (an American machine maker) that became the generic Australian word. Used for retaining walls, garages, fences and the ground floor of many Queensland homes. Also spelled Bessa. Core-filled and reinforced, it is a proper structural wall.

Thinking about moving a wall or changing your floorplan? In this episode, we share the top 5 things you must check before making any structural changes - from pre-designed options to avoiding costly mistakes with wet areas and double-storey layouts.
Watch full episodeBuildPilot is an independent Australian building platform, we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.
The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).
Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.
National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.
National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.
Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.
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