Changes to the National Construction Code: 7 star energy rating
Higher energy standards from 1 October 2023
At McDonald Jones, we are committed to building homes that are not only extraordinary inside and out, but also sustainable for our planet and more energy efficient for you to enjoy for years to come.
The Australian Government has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This promise has led to the announcement of changes to the National Construction Code along with a dramatic increase in the BASIX standards for energy use and thermal performance for all new home builds in New South Wales. From the 1st October 2023, all new homes must comply with new thermal performance standards to align with the National Construction Code (NCC).
What is BASIX?
BASIX, or Building Sustainability Index, is a planning measure introduced by the New South Wales Government that aims to reduce water and energy consumption in new residential homes and buildings. BASIX sets sustainability targets for water and energy, as well as minimum performance levels for the thermal comfort of your new home. A BASIX certificate is required for any CDC or DA build, and is submitted by all builders to ensure they have met or exceeded sustainability targets.
A message from our CEO
What changes to expect
The new energy rating standard is increasing from 5.5 stars to 7 stars from the 1st of October, 2023. Your Building & Design Consultant will guide you through what is required based on your climate zone, block orientation and inclusions to ensure the new 7-star rating is achieved. Our expert team can help you consider all the ways to minimise design impacts when achieving 7-stars, including:
- Land aspect
- Position of windows
- Step downs in the home
- Ceiling heights
- Facade design
- Size of eaves
- Position of alfresco
How will this affect my new home build?
As each new home build is unique, the cost of building a 7-star home will vary depending on the size, orientation, and climate zone of the home.
If you are looking to build, we can use many energy-saving areas to meet your BASIX requirements and keep your overall cost down. We also have a number of standard inclusions in many of our designs that will help you towards achieving 7 stars, including:
- 6.6kW solar panels with inverter
- Premium insulation
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Electric car charger
- Whirlybird and eave vents
- Rainwater tank, to name a few
There is a Transitional Application Process for anyone who has signed a contract before the 1st of October and who can lodge a Development Application or Complying Development Certificate with a current Basix Certificate that has been issued before or on the 30th of June (Note: a BASIX certificate lasts for three months). These transitional arrangements are subject to meeting certain criteria.
To see if you qualify, please use this helpful fact sheet.
It is important to note that BASIX is an external assessment unique to each build. Our team will work with you to achieve the best outcome possible for your block of land. For more information on new BASIX standards, head to: https://pp.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/BASIX-standards
Our team are here to help make your dream of building your new home as easy and affordable as possible, and we will work to tailor your design to be compliant, sustainable, and beautiful.
We are excited to work to create the best outcome to ensure the continued high quality of our homes whilst also building for the future.
