The Australian Building Code Board (ABCB) last week released the public comment draft of the 2019 Building Code that includes changes to the energy efficiency rules for new homes.
In a press release from the HIA, they believe the resulting changes now out for comment will make a significant difference in the energy ratings for new homes across Australia.
Last week’s release of the 2019 edition of the building code included:
- strengthening the way the reference building verification method is used
- introducing split heating and cooling loads
- introducing a new verification method for building sealing
- enhanced prescriptive building sealing requirements
- introducing condensation management provisions including the adoption of substantially revised Australian Standard for building sarking
- providing enhanced clarity to numerous deemed to satisfy provisions;
“The ABCB has been preparing these changes over the last two years in consultation with industry and their release today for public comment provides an important opportunity for those directly involved in the housing industry to provide feedback,” said Kristin Brookfield, HIA Chief Executive Industry Policy.
“At the same time as these changes are out for comment, the Federal Government has started work on a new way to measure the energy efficiency of our homes which HIA has been invited to contribute to.
“The current energy star ratings only tell homes owner’s part of the story. Homeowners should be given a real idea of what their power bills will be based on all the energy used in their home.”
“With cost of living and energy prices soaring average families and home owners need all the help they can get.
“The decision by energy ministers late last year to develop a new framework was welcomed by HIA and we look forward to working with the Government over the next 12 months to decide how we can more sensibly rate the energy new homes will use,” Ms Brookfield concluded.
