NatHERS expansion consultation: share feedback by 30 August

We are inviting feedback on the published consultation paper detailing the proposed delivery model for NatHERS for existing homes. Your input is important in shaping the future of NatHERS and we look forward to your contributions.

You can provide written submissions on the following topics:

  • program objectives and design principles
  • proposed delivery model for NatHERS for existing homes
  • assessor training, accreditation and audit processes
  • rating certificate and upgrade advice
  • energy rating tools.

Submit your feedback via the Have Your Say platform by 11:59pm (AEST) on Friday 30 August 2024.

Consultation webinar recordings now live 

The NatHERS team would like to thank everyone who participated in recent consultation webinars. Over 750 people attended the three sessions. Your questions and insights were invaluable.

If you missed the webinars, you can access the recordings and transcripts on the NatHERS expansion page.

Air infiltration of new dwellings in Australia report released

A new report on air infiltration in Australian dwellings has revealed promising progress in the energy efficiency of modern homes. The study, conducted by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), examined the air infiltration rates in newly constructed homes.

Blower door tests found a 50% improvement in the air infiltration rates of newly constructed Class 1 dwellings in Australia compared to those tested in a 2015 CSIRO study. Class 2 dwellings were also tested for the first time in Australia.

The study directly compared air infiltration rates with results calculated by the NatHERS Chenath Engine, which is used by all NatHERS software. It found that actual air infiltration rates were comparative with the NatHERS assumptions. 

While the research results were positive and compare well to standards in other countries like the UK, the report discusses room for improvement in a series of recommendations. Some of these included:

  • displaying the NatHERS modelled air infiltration rate for each design on the NatHERS Certificate for information 
  • allowing air infiltration rates to be voluntarily specified in NatHERS software, displayed on NatHERS certificates, and linked to the Air Tightness Testing & Measurement Association (ATTMA) blower door test certificates. 

The study was supported and funded by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
 

New 7-star rating logo mandatory for assessors 

All assessors are now required to use the new 7-star rating logo, instead of the 6-star rating logo. This requirement applies regardless of whether the National Construction Code 2022 (NCC22) has been adopted in your jurisdiction.

Standardising the use of the 7-star rating logo, ensures that the benefits of energy efficient houses are clearly communicated to homeowners and buyers nationwide.

Assessors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the NatHERS Trade Mark Guidelines that outline who is eligible to use the NatHERS trademarks, approval processes and their conditions of use. 

Resources for NCC 2022 

Check out these quick links to help with the transition to the new energy efficiency requirements in NCC 2022: