Regulating Sustainability
All states in Australia require new homes to meet minimum thermal performance standards.
In other words, the home must be designed to remain at a comfortable temperature without
the need for excessive heating or cooling. These requirements are designed to reduce
the amount of fossil fuels burned to produce energy for homes, thereby reducing Australia's
greenhouse gas emissions.
The overall regulation requiring Building Thermal Performance Ratings is the Building
Code of Australia (BCA), applicable in all states except NSW. Under the BCA, all dwellings
must achieve a 4-5 star thermal performance standard - this varies between states.
The ACT also requires existing home owners to declare the thermal performance of a
home at point of sale (Mandatory Disclosure).
In NSW, the Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) overrides the BCA requirements and
sets the required levels of environmental performance in a number of areas including
energy, water and thermal performance. Under BASIX, a home must receive a 'pass' under
the Thermal Comfort section in order to receive development approval.
ABSA Assessors provide services in all states and territories and can advise you on
the specific requirements for your area. Go to Find an
Assessor to locate an assessor near you.
The table of assessment schemes below also provides more information on the regulatory
requirements applicable in your area: