Are you looking for a home that keeps you comfortable year-round while slashing your energy bills? A new energy efficiency rating system is set to revolutionize how apartment buyers assess the sustainability of their homes—potentially putting an extra $111,000 in homeowners' pockets over 30 years!
Introducing the Green Star Apartment Rating
Gone are the days when an entire building was rated as one unit. The new Green Star apartments certification now rates individual apartments based on key factors like:
Thermal performance (insulation, glazing, airflow)
Energy efficiency (power-saving features, smart design)
Access to renewable energy (solar and sustainable power sources)
Air quality (ventilation and material choices)
Climate resilience (designed to withstand extreme weather conditions)
With the first Green Star-certified apartments expected to be completed in Brisbane by 2027, buyers will soon have a much clearer picture of how energy-efficient their future home really is.
How Much Can You Really Save?
According to Gateway Bank’s modelling, purchasing a Green Star apartment could lead to massive savings:
$25,500 in reduced energy bills over 30 years (likely even higher as power prices rise!)
$40,320 in mortgage repayments if you qualify for a discounted "green loan"
$45,244 in extra property value after 30 years due to increased demand
That’s a total estimated financial benefit of $111,064 over three decades!
Why This Matters for Buyers and Renters
Green Star apartments must meet a Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NATHers) score of 6 or 7 at a minimum—meaning better insulation, double glazing, strategic building orientation, and improved airflow. This translates to lower power bills and a more comfortable home all year round.
Beyond the savings, these homes are future-proofed against extreme weather, making them a smart investment as Australia experiences rising temperatures and more severe climate events.
What About Renters?
While new Green Star apartments will mostly be sold to owner-occupiers and investors, renters could see significant benefits too. Many new apartment developments are aimed at investors who will lease them out, meaning tenants could enjoy:
Lower electricity bills
Better air quality and ventilation
A home designed to handle extreme heat and cold
More than 100 community organisations are now calling on the federal government to introduce mandatory minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties. This could mean even older homes may eventually need to meet higher standards—offering renters more options for energy-efficient living.
The Future of Australian Homes
Industry experts agree that the shift toward energy-efficient apartments is a step in the right direction, but there’s still work to be done—especially for existing homes that lack efficiency upgrades. Government incentives and regulations could help ensure that all Australians, regardless of budget, can access comfortable and affordable housing.
With developers already adopting this new rating system for build-to-rent and build-to-sell projects, we’re heading into a new era of smarter, more cost-effective housing. Whether you’re buying or renting, Green Star apartments could be the key to a cooler home and a fatter wallet!
Thinking about making your next move into an energy-efficient home? Stay tuned for more updates on Bundaberg’s property market and the latest sustainable housing trends!