Australian Home Building Glossary (2026): 128 Construction Terms Explained

Tradie Slang

Donga

George Giannakakis

By George Giannakakis · B.Arch.Studies · M.Arch (UniSA) · RLA300580

Last reviewed: · How we research

Heard on site

"Plans are pinned up in the donga."

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Donga explained in detail

A transportable site hut or accommodation unit. On a house build the donga is the site shed where the plans, the first aid kit and the kettle live. Out on mine sites it is where you sleep.

Why are site costs different between builders?
23m 48s
Watch: Donga in contextSponsored byHome Building Hub
Why are site costs different between builders?

In this episode we explain to you why site costs are so confusing and why they may vary from builder to builder. We explain the inclusions and exclusions, how builders price site costs and also help you understand the role an engineer plays in the process too. A short episode, but a valuable one so be sure to listen in.

Watch full episode

Related Terms

Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot 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.

National

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia

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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