i can see the logic that short/stocky columns with L<5D will attract load and need additional ductility to deal with the load they will attract with their stiffness. i can only assume this is the code writers response to seismic design in Aus is poor, and detailing is done worse. i would rather this approach of a blanket rule, rather than having to do a more detailed analysis to demonstrate the amount of confinment reo needed to give a ductile connection.
i have raised this L<5D requirement a few times, including with some design software companies, and it is not well known about.