Australians who buy new homes will have cheaper electricity bills from next year, under changes to increase minimum energy efficiency standards.
A new national construction code will officially come into effect on May 1, 2023, hauling up minimum energy efficiency standards for new builds from six to seven-star ratings.
However, building ministers at a meeting on Friday decided there would be a transition period to October 1 to allow the industry to adjust to the change.
The seven-star rating could, for the average new home, mean better insulation, higher quality glazing, and smarter floor plans, according to the building ministers' communique .
Building new energy efficient homes supported the transition to net zero emissions by 2050, the communique said.
Homes with a seven-star rating are cheaper to heat and cool, and more resilient to extreme weather, according to the Victorian government, which welcomed the changes.
New provisions under the code will also mean more houses have accessible features like step-free entries, accessible doorways, and a toilet on the entry level, the Victorian government said.
"Victoria's strong advocacy will see new accessibility standards roll out as part of the National Construction Code, ensuring our future housing supply is inclusive and fit for purpose, while allowing time for the industry to transition," state Planning Minister Lizzie Blandthorn said.
The Property Council of Australia welcomed the building ministers' decision to lift the efficiency standards, saying the changes to the code represented the first significant adjustment in a decade.
"It is great, that after years of work and advocacy on this matter, ministers have made the commitment to improve the efficiency of all new homes built in Australia," council chief executive Ken Morrison said.
"Lifting the energy rating from 6 to 7 stars has the potential to slash the average household energy bill by up to $576 a year, so for homeowners and renters alike, a 7- star home means big savings, as well as higher levels of comfort."
The building ministers left open the option of adjusting some details across jurisdictions, Mr Morrison said. He urged them to remain consistent.
"We are one country, and when there is inconsistency, there is greater cost for industry and consumers."
