7 Star
Energy efficiency ratings for new residential buildings have now changed with updates to the National Construction Code (NCC) bringing about an overhaul to the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
The expansion is the biggest change to NatHERS since the scheme began in 1993.
NatHERS currently provides a rating out of 10 stars that takes into account the home’s design and construction materials including walls, insulation, windows and roofs. The required rating is now 7*.

In addition, updates to the NCC mean the energy performance of appliances used for hot water, heating and cooling, solar energy generated onsite and battery storage will be included in a new Whole of Home rating.
This will provide a second rating out of 100 and encourage residential builders and designers to consider the efficiency of appliances they recommend to their clients.
The changes will give the community and industry the ability to design and build energy efficient, comfortable and cost effective homes.
Will my home need to reach 7* even though it’s been held up in council for months? Not necessarily. If the majority of your design was finalised prior to 1 May 2024, the building surveyor may issue a Section 10 form. This will enable you to still submit your documents based on 2019 NCC requirements (6*).
More than 150,000 homes are built every year – these efficiency measures will help reduce energy demand which is vital to support the economy’s transition to net zero.
The measures ensure we are building energy efficient homes for the future.
The #1 top tip… Get your NatHERS assessor involved early: The most important first step is to get your NatHERS assessor involved early in the design process. NatHERS accredited assessors are extensively trained to improve ratings and providing design options to get to 7 stars and beyond in the most cost effective way.
For additional cost effective design tips, check out this flyer: