The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has introduced Green Star apartments, a groundbreaking sustainability certification that independently verifies the environmental performance of individual apartments within multi-unit buildings.

Industry Leaders Join Pioneering Trial

Six prominent companies have partnered with GBCA to pilot the new rating system:

• Cbus Property
• Frasers Property
• Homes Victoria
• Lendlease
• Sentinel
• Stockland

Addressing Housing and Climate Challenges

GBCA CEO Davina Rooney emphasized the critical timing of this initiative: “With housing affordability at crisis levels, growing urban density, and intensifying climate pressures, we need sustainable solutions that make apartments more accessible and environmentally responsible.”

Financial and Environmental Benefits

The Green Star apartments rating offers compelling advantages:

• Minimal upfront cost increase: Just 1.3% (approximately $11,700)
• Significant long-term financial gains: Nearly $111,000 over 30 years in Sydney
• Potential savings through cheaper loans, reduced energy costs, and increased property appreciation

Market Demand for Sustainability

Recent data highlights the growing importance of sustainable housing:

• 81% of buyers consider sustainable property features “critical” or “important”
• Increasing recognition that green homes can be both environmentally responsible and financially smart

Financial Industry Support

Gateway Bank has already committed to accepting the Green Star Buildings – Apartments Pathway certification for its Green Home Loan, with other lenders expected to follow.

Industry Perspective

Adrian Pozzo, CEO of Cbus Property, shared enthusiasm for the initiative: “This is a game-changer that will help Australians access healthier, more liveable, and sustainable apartments. We’re proud to pilot this pathway at our 185 Wharf Street, Spring Hill development, setting a new benchmark for sustainable apartment living.”

Key Takeaway

As Rooney succinctly stated, “Sustainable apartments shouldn’t come with a cost premium—they should be the standard.”

The Green Star apartments rating represents a significant step towards more sustainable, affordable, and environmentally conscious urban living.