In 2022 the state governments agreed to these changes to the National Construction Code(NCC).

• The NCC has changed the indexing of the clauses
• There is a new verification method J1V5(Except in NSW).
• There are a few minor changes to Classes 3-9
• The major change is in the treatment of Class 2
• The average star rating has been raised to 7 stars and a calculation of the Whole-of-Home is required in all states except NSW.

One of the biggest changes in the code is higher thermal comfort requirements for newly built homes. Previously, new homes had to have a six-star rating and this will increase to seven stars. In NSW the BASIX system sets up its own star rating which varies from 4.3 to 7.6 stars depending on location.

What’s the star rating system?

• The star rating system is the way the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) assesses homes’ “thermal performance”.

What is the rating based on?

• The NatHERS ratings are based on a calculation developed by the CSIRO. The rating depends on the design of the home, its orientation, the construction materials of the roof, wall and windows  and how they’re constructed, as well as how the house is shaded.

When do these changes occur?

•  In 2022 the NCC code changed but it is only voluntary at the moment. On the 1st of October 2023 it will become compulsory.

Is it only about energy?

• The star rating system relates to thermal efficiency, which affects how much energy a home uses (and its carbon footprint ) but the National Construction Code changes also include Accessibility. 

How much more does a 7-star home cost to build?

• It is difficult to be accurate about how much extra it would cost to build a 7-star rated home compared with a 6-star due to differences in climate zones and building design and orientation.
• Typically, the extra costs come down to materials such as low E or double glazing, PV’s/solar panels and options to charge electric vehicles.
• Capital costs are just one element of the cost of a home as a 7-star rated home will save the resident, money in the long run as it doesn’t require as much heating or cooling which means less energy use.

Real costs for new home owners are the sum of three things: – capital costs to build the home
– costs to heat, cool and live in the home and
– mortgage costs. (Many banks offer lower mortgage rates for more sustainable homes)

• Contact David Howard on 0421381005 to discuss:                                                   
   – how these changes relate to your designs and
  – what changes you need to make early in the planning process to ensure the BASIX requirements are met with minimum costs.