NABERS Rating: A Key to Unlocking Solutions for Australia’s Housing Affordability Crisis

Home Analysis Legislation & Policy Housing Policy Affordable Housing NABERS Rating: A Key to Unlocking Solutions for Australia’s Housing Affordability Crisis


Imagine a young couple, Emily and Jake, filled with dreams of homeownership and a family of their own. They work tirelessly, saving every dollar, yet the hope of owning a home remains just that – a dream. With the median house price in Sydney exceeding $1.1 million, the barriers to affordable housing are insurmountable. But what if I told you there is a transformative solution that not only addresses housing affordability but also champions sustainability? Enter the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).

A pressing need for affordable housing

The statistics are alarming: as of 2023, over 116,000 Australians are homeless, a figure exacerbated by soaring property prices and insufficient rental affordability. The lack of secure housing not only affects individual lives; it diminishes the vitality of our communities and increases reliance on social services. This crisis demands an urgent and effective response.
Recognising this pressing need, NABERS emerges as a beacon of hope. It is a performance-based rating system that assesses the environmental impact of buildings, focusing on energy, water, indoor environment, and more. By embedding NABERS in property development, we can significantly reduce operational costs, making homes more affordable for buyers and renters alike.

The financial benefits of sustainable building

Incorporating NABERS into housing projects can yield remarkable economic outcomes. Research by the Green Building Council of Australia reveals that energy-efficient buildings can save up to 30% on operating expenses compared to their non-rated counterparts. This saving translates directly to lower rent and mortgage repayments for residents. For potential homebuyers like Emily and Jake, these savings could mean the difference between affording a home or remaining in the rental trap.
Moreover, the appeal for environmentally conscious investors is growing. Properties boasting high NABERS ratings are increasingly sought after, often commanding higher resale values and demand. With consumers more aware of sustainability issues, developers have a dual incentive: improve affordability and enhance marketability.

Addressing counterarguments with clear evidence

Critics may argue that implementing NABERS ratings may increase initial construction costs. While this is a valid concern, a study by the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment indicates that the long-term savings on energy and water far outweigh initial investments. The caveat is simple: the upfront cost is an investment in sustainability and financial savings over time.

Building a sustainable future together

The steps toward integrating NABERS into the mainstream housing market require collabouration between government, developers, and the community. Politicians must incentivize sustainability through grants and tax breaks for buildings that achieve high NABERS ratings. Developers must commit to sustainable building practises, envisioning homes that fulfil not just market demands but also social responsibilities. Finally, as a community, we must advocate for better housing policies that align with these practises, shaping a future where affordable housing is not merely a dream but a reality.

Call to action

Join me in advocating for a shift towards sustainable housing practises powered by NABERS ratings. By demanding better policies from our local leaders and supporting developments that prioritise affordability and sustainability, we can write a new narrative for Australia’s housing crisis – one where Emily and Jake can finally unlock the door to their dream home. For further insights and to get involved, visit APN or email us at national.advocate@apn.news. Together, we can make change happen.

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